Is the 2026 Hyundai SANTA FE the better three-row SUV than the 2026 Toyota Highlander for Lafayette, IN road trips?

Dorsett Hyundai - What Drivers Near Terre Haute, In Should Know About the 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE The 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE continues to make a strong impression in the midsize SUV space with a design that feels bold, practical, and upscale without moving away from everyday usability. After a major redesign in recent model years, the 2027 SANTA FE carries forward the same confident shape, spacious three-row layout, modern technology, and comfort-focused driving character that helped the nameplate stand out. For shoppers comparing family SUVs, weekend-ready crossovers, and refined daily drivers, this model deserves a close look. At Dorsett Hyundai, we see the SANTA FE as a smart choice for drivers who want distinctive styling, flexible seating, and advanced features in one well-rounded package, serving Indianapolis, Champaign, and Lafayette. The 2027 model remains especially appealing because it blends a rugged, squared-off exterior with a calm and tech-forward cabin. It is not trying to be overly complicated. Instead, it focuses on what SUV shoppers often value most: space, comfort, confidence, connectivity, and long-term peace of mind. A Bold Design That Sets the SANTA FE Apart The 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE has a look that is easy to recognize. Its boxy profile, upright stance, broad tailgate, and clean body lines give it a premium presence from nearly every angle. The design is more than visual flair, too. The wider rear opening and squared cargo area help make loading bulky items easier, which is useful for families, commuters with gear, and anyone who prefers an SUV with real utility. Lighting also plays a major role in the SANTA FE identity. LED projector headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, and automatic headlights are included across the lineup, helping create a modern appearance while supporting visibility. Available trim-specific details, such as gloss black accents, distinctive grille treatments, larger alloy wheels, and upscale exterior finishes, allow shoppers to choose a version that fits personal style without losing the model's practical core. Powertrain Options for Different Driving Priorities The 2027 SANTA FE lineup includes gas and hybrid powertrain choices, giving shoppers flexibility based on preferred driving feel and efficiency goals. The gas model uses a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine with strong horsepower and torque output, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard on many trims, while available HTRAC all-wheel drive adds extra confidence for changing road conditions and light adventure. For drivers focused on fuel efficiency, the SANTA FE Hybrid offers a 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrain with smooth power delivery and impressive estimated fuel economy. It pairs electric motor assistance with a 6-speed automatic transmission, helping reduce fuel use during daily driving. The hybrid is not designed as a compromise. It keeps the spacious SUV format while adding a more efficient character that many modern shoppers appreciate. Gas engine: Turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four with confident everyday power Hybrid option: Turbocharged 1.6-liter hybrid system built for strong efficiency Drivetrain choices: Front-wheel drive or available HTRAC all-wheel drive, depending on trim Transmission setup: 8-speed automatic for gas models and 6-speed automatic for hybrid models Drive modes: Selectable modes help tailor response for comfort, efficiency, or traction needs Interior Space and Everyday Comfort Inside, the 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE feels thoughtfully arranged. The cabin emphasizes horizontal lines, clean controls, and large displays, creating a space that looks contemporary without becoming distracting. Seating is available for six or seven passengers depending on trim and second-row configuration. A second-row bench maximizes capacity, while available captain's chairs add comfort and easier access to the third row. The first and second rows are especially accommodating, with generous legroom and supportive seating. The third row is best suited for children, smaller adults, or shorter trips, which is common in this segment. Cargo flexibility is one of the SANTA FE's biggest strengths. With all rows in use, there is still usable room behind the third row. Fold the rear rows down, and the SUV opens into a wide, flat cargo area capable of handling luggage, shopping trips, sports equipment, home project supplies, and more. Seating capacity: Six or seven passengers depending on configuration Second row: Bench seating or available captain's chairs on select trims Cargo flexibility: Fold-flat rear seating supports larger cargo needs Cabin comfort: Available heated and ventilated front seats enhance daily driving Premium materials: Available leather and Nappa leather seating add an upscale feel Technology That Feels Modern and Useful The 2027 SANTA FE keeps technology front and center with a large 12.3-inch infotainment display and available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, making smartphone integration simple. Hyundai also preserves useful physical controls for key functions such as volume and climate adjustments, which helps the cabin feel intuitive on the move. Available upgrades include onboard navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, a Bose premium audio system, wireless phone charging, Hyundai Digital Key 2 Premium on select trims, and a head-up display on higher trims. Many shoppers will appreciate the mix of screen-based features and practical charging solutions, especially USB-C ports in multiple seating areas. The SANTA FE is built for connected families and busy schedules, but it avoids turning every simple task into a touchscreen hunt. Safety and Driver Assistance Hyundai equips the 2027 SANTA FE with a long list of safety and driver-assistance features. Standard and available systems help support awareness, assist with lane centering, provide alerts during parking or backing up, and help reduce the chance of certain collisions. This is one of the areas where the SANTA FE feels particularly family-friendly, because safety technology is not limited only to the most expensive configuration. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist: Helps detect vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and junction-turning scenarios Lane Keeping Assist: Provides steering support if the SUV begins to drift from its lane Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist: Helps when backing out of parking spaces with limited visibility Smart Cruise Control: Supports more relaxed highway driving with stop-and-go capability on select versions Safe Exit Assist: Helps warn occupants before opening a door near approaching traffic Trim Highlights: From Practical to Premium The 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE lineup is designed to cover a wide range of needs. SE and SEL trims focus on strong value, comfort, and core technology. SEL adds popular upgrades such as H-Tex trimmed seating, heated front seats, dual automatic temperature control, wireless charging, and added convenience features. For many shoppers, SEL often represents a compelling balance of features and practicality. The XRT trim adds a more rugged personality. It comes with all-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, unique black exterior accents, XRT-specific seating details, and greater towing capability when properly equipped. Limited and Calligraphy trims move the SANTA FE closer to luxury territory with features such as leather or Nappa leather seating, premium audio, larger digital displays, ambient lighting, advanced camera views, and additional comfort upgrades. Towing, Utility, and Capability The 2027 SANTA FE is more than a comfortable people mover. Gas models can tow a useful amount when properly equipped, and the XRT trim raises capability for shoppers who need extra trailering strength. Trailer pre-wiring is included, and Trailer Sway Control helps support stability when towing. For light recreational use, small trailers, or gear-heavy weekends, the SANTA FE provides capability without forcing shoppers into a larger SUV. Ground clearance also supports confidence on uneven roads, gravel access routes, and mild off-pavement conditions. The XRT stands out here with added clearance and improved approach and departure angles compared with standard gas models. It is not a dedicated rock-crawling SUV, but it is well suited for drivers who want a more adventurous look and useful capability in a refined three-row package. Why the 2027 SANTA FE Is Worth Considering The 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE succeeds because it feels different without becoming impractical. Its design has presence, its cabin is spacious and quiet, and its technology is easy to appreciate during normal driving. The availability of both gas and hybrid powertrains also broadens its appeal, allowing shoppers to prioritize performance feel, efficiency, towing, or all-weather confidence. For families, the SANTA FE offers smart storage, easy passenger access, and a wide range of safety features. For commuters, it provides comfort, connectivity, and a refined ride. For shoppers who want something with more character than a typical crossover, its bold design and XRT option add personality. The result is an SUV that feels current, useful, and ready for a variety of daily routines. Frequently Asked Questions: Is the 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE a three-row SUV? Yes. The 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE offers three rows of seating with room for six or seven passengers, depending on the trim and second-row setup. Does the 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE offer a hybrid model? Yes. The SANTA FE lineup includes a hybrid option that combines a turbocharged gas engine with electric motor assistance for strong efficiency and smooth daily performance. Which 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE trim is best for adventure-focused drivers? The XRT trim is the most adventure-focused version. It includes standard all-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, unique styling details, and enhanced towing capability when properly equipped. Does the 2027 SANTA FE have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto? Yes. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, making it simple to connect compatible smartphones without needing a cable. Is the 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE good for families? Yes. Its three-row seating, flexible cargo space, strong safety feature list, available captain's chairs, and user-friendly technology make it a practical and comfortable family SUV. Request more 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe information

Dorsett Hyundai - Indianapolis, IN Families — How the 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE’s Digital Cockpit and Smart Rear Seating Make Busy Days Easier The daily juggle never really stops in Indianapolis, IN—school drop-offs in Meridian-Kessler, meetings downtown, youth sports around Eagle Creek, and grocery runs tucked in between. The 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE was designed for that exact pace, pairing a thoughtful, user-friendly digital cockpit with flexible rear-seating solutions that keep everyone comfortable and your day on track. What stands out most is how the SANTA FE blends two 12.3-inch displays into a single panoramic view without overcomplicating everyday interactions. The left screen serves as a crisp digital cluster with clean, glanceable information, while the right screen takes care of navigation, audio, and apps. Even better, physical knobs for climate and volume remain—so you won’t be surfing menus to lower the fan speed in midtown traffic. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, so your smartphone maps, playlists, and calls are ready from the moment you start the drive. And while the front row is undeniably modern, the real magic happens behind the driver’s seat. Choose a 7-passenger layout for maximum seating or the available 6-passenger configuration with second-row captain’s chairs for easy access to the third row. Around Indianapolis, that flexibility pays off—think quick child-seat swaps, easy in-and-out before practice, or adult-friendly middle-row comfort for a night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. It’s family movement simplified, and it shows in the details, like extra USB-C ports (including the third row) and the standard Hands Free Smart Liftgate. Why the Digital Cockpit Feels Right-Sized for Indy Driving In a city where you might hit the I-465 loop, slide down I-65, then cruise surface streets all in one morning, the SANTA FE’s digital experience is straightforward and reliable. The 12.3-inch instrument cluster integrates navigation cues cleanly, and the infotainment screen keeps maps large and easy to follow without distracting clutter. If you’re tracking multiple stops, the combination of wireless smartphone mirroring plus onboard navigation with traffic flow info is a winning pair—especially if a backup routing option helps you avoid unexpected construction near Broad Ripple. If you’ve tried other SUVs with touchscreen-only climate controls, the SANTA FE’s blend of hard keys and knobs will be a breath of fresh air. You get the modernity of a sleek digital layout without sacrificing quick, tactile adjustments. It reduces frustration and keeps your attention where it belongs—on the road. Available tech like Dynamic Voice Recognition, Hyundai Pay (in-vehicle payment), and Bose premium audio adds ease and clarity for busier days and longer evening drives. Smart Seating That Keeps Up with Your Calendar Choosing between a bench and captain’s chairs in the second row comes down to your household’s rhythm. For many Indianapolis families, the captain’s chairs on Limited and Calligraphy trims are a perfect fit: easier third-row access when both chairs are occupied, less “who’s sliding where” at school pickup, and a more relaxed middle-row space for older kids or other adults. If maximum occupancy is the priority, the 7-passenger setup is ready for neighborhood carpools or extra cousins in town. Storage is another unsung highlight. The underfloor cargo tray is handy for keeping items out of view—great for quick stops around Mass Ave or when you don’t want sports gear scattered across the cargo bay. With 14.6 cubic feet behind the third row, the SANTA FE handles a surprising amount of everyday luggage. Fold the third row, and 40.5 cubic feet opens up for weekend projects; fold both the second and third rows, and you’ll unlock up to 79.6 cubic feet for serious hauls to the northwest side home centers. Safety and Stress-Reduction, Built In The 2027 SANTA FE’s safety suite adds peace of mind on commutes up I-69 or across I-70. Standard features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction-turn detection), Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist 2, Driver Attention Warning, and Safe Exit Assist. On higher trims, you can add Surround View Monitor for a top-down perspective in tight parking around the Bottleworks District and Blind-Spot View Monitor to expand awareness during lane changes on the interstate. Highway Driving Assist is another standout. On XRT and Limited, HDA I supports steady cruising with lane-centering and speed guidance; Calligraphy models upgrade to HDA 2 for even more refined assistance. If you regularly hop between suburbs and downtown, these tools help take the edge off highway stretches and variable traffic flow. Parking support also feels tailor-made for city life. Park Distance Warning is standard, while available Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist - Reverse steps in to help prevent fender scrapes. Remote Smart Parking Assist (on Limited and Calligraphy) can even help maneuver the SANTA FE into or out of tight spots—useful when space near crowded venues is at a premium. Tech That Simplifies More Than the Morning The SANTA FE’s cabin is loaded with little helpers that add up. Available Dual Wireless Phone Charging means no more back-and-forth charger battles, while USB-C ports in all the right places ensure older tablets and newer phones stay powered. Bluelink® Connected Car System brings remote start and lock/unlock via smartphone and enables over-the-air updates. And if you appreciate a clean environment, the available UV-C glovebox compartment adds a thoughtful way to sanitize small everyday items between stops. For families with teens or multi-driver households, Hyundai Digital Key 2 Premium availability lets authorized phones serve as keys—handy for sharing the SANTA FE without a constant handoff of fobs. It’s the type of everyday flexibility that turns a smart SUV into a trusted partner. For all its tech, the SANTA FE stays grounded in the basics: a calm ride, supportive seating, and confident highway demeanor. That combination, paired with family-savvy features and clear, approachable technology, makes it a natural fit for Indy’s busy routines. If you’re comparing the SANTA FE to other three-row options, pay close attention to how many features are standard across the Hyundai lineup. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across trims is a big win—many competitors still reserve wireless operation for higher models or require a cord. The standard Hands Free Smart Liftgate similarly simplifies day-to-day loading, from gym bags to grocery hauls. We also appreciate the thoughtful way the SANTA FE helps maintain visibility. The available digital rearview tech and multi-angle camera systems work together to offset the reality of a packed cabin. When you’re managing school carpools and soccer gear, a clear rearward view transforms tight maneuvers from tense to routine. Ultimately, the 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE’s digital cockpit and rear-seat flexibility solve real problems for real families. It’s easy to learn, easy to live with, and full of confidence-building features. That’s why so many households exploring three-row SUVs around Indianapolis put it at the top of their list—because it meets the day exactly where you need it. Dorsett Hyundai proudly helps families evaluate trims, test advanced safety features, and set up smart tech just the way you like it—serving Indianapolis, Champaign, and Lafayette with guidance you can trust. Frequently Asked Questions: Can adults fit in the third row of the 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE for a full evening out? The third row is best for kids and smaller adults for longer stints. For short trips across town, many adults find it workable, but the second row is where comfort truly shines for grown-up passengers. Is wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard on the SANTA FE? Yes, wireless smartphone integration is standard across the 2027 SANTA FE lineup, so you can leave the cables at home. Which trims include second-row captain’s chairs? Limited and Calligraphy add second-row captain’s chairs as standard, while other trims offer a 7-passenger layout. We can help you compare layouts during your test drive. Does the SANTA FE include physical climate controls? Yes. Despite its modern twin-display layout, the SANTA FE retains essential knobs and buttons for quick climate and volume adjustments. Which SANTA FE trims offer advanced parking tech? Limited and Calligraphy add Surround View Monitor and Remote Smart Parking Assist, with additional sensors to support tight-space maneuvering. Request more 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe information

Dorsett Hyundai - Is HTRAC All Wheel Drive worth it on the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe for Lafayette, IN drivers? Choosing the right drivetrain is a big decision, especially if your days mix school drop-offs, I-65 commutes, and time on country byways that are not always as smooth as you would like. The Hyundai HTRAC AWD system on the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe is engineered to help with exactly that—providing intelligent, on-demand torque distribution that adapts as surfaces, speeds, and steering inputs change. For Lafayette, IN drivers, HTRAC AWD is not just a checkbox; it is a confidence builder that makes every mile feel more settled and predictable. Here is a closer look at how HTRAC AWD works on the Santa Fe, which trims to consider, and how to evaluate it on your test drive so you know whether it is the right fit for your daily life. And yes—if you have been eyeing the adventurous XRT model, we will cover why its specialized tuning and trail-minded hardware unlock even more capability when you need it. How HTRAC AWD Works in Real Life HTRAC AWD is an active, on-demand system designed to shift torque front-to-rear seamlessly. In everyday driving, it prioritizes efficiency and smoothness. When conditions call for it—like a gravelly side road or a rain-soaked turn—HTRAC can send more torque rearward to stabilize acceleration and reduce front tire slip. Drive Mode Select tailors the response: Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart range from refinement-first to more eager, rear-biased acceleration. Snow mode further optimizes outputs for slick conditions, and the AWD Lock feature holds a 50:50 split at lower speeds for predictable traction when you need it most. For drivers navigating around Purdue’s campus, hopping between neighborhoods, and making quick weekend runs into the countryside, this adaptability is a difference you can feel. Steering stays light with a precise 13.7:1 ratio and 2.6 turns lock-to-lock, so pulling into tight lots or older downtown streets remains stress-free even with AWD on board. Why XRT Stands Apart If your life occasionally takes you beyond the pavement, the Santa Fe XRT adds purposeful upgrades. You get AWD standard, all-terrain tires, a +1-inch increase in ground clearance, and calibrations for Sand/Mud in addition to the standard modes. The approach and departure angles are increased, and with trailer brakes, the XRT is rated to tow up to 4,500 pounds. That means a small camper, a pair of ATVs, or a compact fishing boat can be part of your plans—no drama required. Pair that with Trailer Sway Control and strong disc brakes all around, and the XRT feels dialed-in for trailheads and weekend projects alike. What About Daily Comfort and Tech? Adding AWD should not compromise comfort or tech, and the Santa Fe keeps everything dialed. Acoustic laminated glass and a suspension tuned for quiet composure make daily miles relaxed, while the tech suite stays intuitive. Dual 12.3-inch displays headline the dash on upper trims, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across the board. Available features like Dual Wireless Phone Charging, Bose premium audio, Dynamic Voice Recognition, and Bluelink® Connected Car System help keep you organized and connected without extra clutter or cords. If you want even more ease, look for Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) on higher trims to help slide into tighter spaces. Which Trims to Test If You Want AWD Most trims offer HTRAC AWD as an option, while the XRT includes it as standard along with those trail-minded features. Limited and Calligraphy blend AWD confidence with upscale touches—think available heated second-row seats, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Surround View Monitor, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster—perfect for those who want capability without giving up comfort. The Santa Fe Hybrid can also be paired with HTRAC AWD, adding smooth electric assistance to your suburban shuttles and highway drives. What to Evaluate on Your Test Drive It helps to plan a route that mimics real life. Start on a neighborhood loop, then add a stretch of highway, and finish in a shopping center or older street grid with tighter parking. Toggle through Comfort, Sport, and Snow modes if conditions allow; feel how the system meters power, keeps steering predictable, and settles the body over patchier pavement. If the XRT is on your radar, ask to sample a short gravel or uneven surface to feel the extra clearance and tire grip. The right test route will tell you more than any spec sheet can. Frequently Asked Questions: Does the Santa Fe’s HTRAC AWD require special maintenance? HTRAC AWD is designed for low-hassle ownership. Follow the maintenance schedule in your Owner’s Handbook and have inspections performed at recommended intervals. Our certified technicians can help keep your system in top form using Genuine OEM parts. Is HTRAC AWD available with both gas and Hybrid Santa Fe models? Yes. HTRAC AWD is available on gasoline and Hybrid versions, so you can prioritize capability and choose your preferred powertrain at the same time. Can I use Snow mode year-round? Snow mode is designed to optimize low-traction starts and throttle response in slick conditions. For daily driving in dry or mixed conditions, Comfort, Eco, Sport, or Smart will likely feel more natural. Will HTRAC AWD reduce passenger or cargo space? No. The Santa Fe’s interior packaging—seating for six or seven and up to 79.6 cubic feet of max cargo volume—remains the same. AWD adds capability without changing the cabin’s flexibility. If you are ready to try HTRAC AWD for yourself, schedule a drive with Dorsett Hyundai. Our team is serving Champaign, Lafayette, and Evansville shoppers with tailored routes that show how the system behaves in the kinds of conditions you actually encounter, from in-town errands to interstate miles and those occasional backroad shortcuts. Bring your daily gear, map a route with us, and feel how the Santa Fe’s AWD confidence fits your routine from the first turn out of the lot. Request more 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe information