Key Features of the 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE

Smartstream Powertrain Options

The 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE gives shoppers meaningful powertrain flexibility. Gas models are equipped with a Smartstream 2.5L Turbo GDI + MPI DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder engine with 277 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 311 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. That output gives the SANTA FE a confident response for merging, passing, and carrying passengers or cargo. The gas model pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission and includes SHIFTRONIC® manual shift paddle shifters, Shift-By-Wire, and Drive Mode Select. Hybrid shoppers can choose the Smartstream 1.6L Turbo GDI DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder engine with a permanent magnet synchronous motor, a lithium-ion battery, and total combined system output of 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. Hybrid models use a 6-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard on many configurations, while available HTRAC AWD adds active on-demand torque distribution for added confidence. XRT models include AWD as standard and add Sand/Mud drive logic along with AWD Lock capability.

Flexible Three-Row Interior

The SANTA FE is built around real-life passenger and cargo needs. Depending on trim, it offers seating for six or seven, with SE, SEL, and XRT models featuring seven-passenger seating and Limited offering six or seven. Calligraphy models seat six with second-row captain’s chairs. Front-row comfort varies by trim, from YES Essentials® Stain-resistant cloth seats on SE to H-Tex®-trimmed Seats on SEL and XRT, Leather-Trimmed Seats on Limited, and Nappa Leather-Trimmed Seats on Calligraphy. The second row includes 60/40 split fold-flat seats with recline and adjustable head restraints on applicable bench-seat models, while available captain’s chairs add a more open, premium feel. The third row uses a 50/50 sinking and folding seat with a room lamp, making it easy to carry extra passengers when needed. Cargo capacity is another standout: Hyundai lists 79.6 cubic feet behind the front seats, 40.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 14.6 cubic feet behind the third row. Remote-release folding second-row seats and underfloor storage add further convenience.

12.3-Inch Displays and Connected Technology

Technology is one of the SANTA FE’s strongest everyday advantages. SE and SEL models include a 12.3-inch Display Audio system with AM/FM/HD Radio, while XRT, Limited, and Calligraphy trims add a 12.3-inch wide touchscreen with onboard Navigation, traffic flow including incident data via HD Radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard across the lineup, so drivers can connect compatible smartphones without plugging in. Bluetooth® hands-free capability, wireless audio streaming, and high-power USB charge ports support passengers throughout the cabin, with additional third-row USB charging on SEL and above. Available dual wireless phone charging is especially useful for households with more than one device in constant use. Bluelink® Connected Car System and over-the-air updating capability are standard, helping the vehicle stay connected over time. Available features such as Dynamic Voice Recognition, Hyundai Pay, Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, and a windshield-type Head-up Display on Calligraphy add convenience for shoppers who want a more advanced driving environment.

Hyundai SmartSense Safety Systems

The 2027 SANTA FE includes a broad collection of driver-assistance and safety technologies designed to support awareness from multiple angles. Standard active safety features include an anti-lock braking system with 4-wheel disc brakes, Electronic stability control with traction control and brake assist, Vehicle stability management, and a Tire pressure monitoring system with individual tire indicators. Hyundai SmartSense technologies include standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist 2, Driver Attention Warning, Safe Exit Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Warning, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist. Forward Attention Warning is included on SEL and above, while Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist is included on Calligraphy. Parking support also scales by trim, with Park Distance Warning and available Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist - Reverse, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Surround View Monitor. Highway Driving Assist I is included on XRT and Limited, while Highway Driving Assist 2 is included on Calligraphy. These systems help the SANTA FE feel modern, attentive, and well suited to busy driving.

XRT Capability and Towing Confidence

For shoppers who want a more rugged version of the SANTA FE, the XRT trim adds purposeful capability and visual attitude. XRT is AWD only and includes increased ground clearance of 8.3 inches, compared with 7.0 inches on other gas and hybrid configurations. It also features 18-inch black wheels with Continental All-Terrain Tires, a gloss black radiator grille, black outside mirrors, matte/metallic black roof rails, XRT-specific exterior details, and an embroidered logo on XRT-exclusive black H-Tex® seatbacks. Capability is more than cosmetic. Hyundai lists maximum trailer weight with trailer brakes at 3,500 pounds for gas models and 4,500 pounds for XRT, while hybrid models are rated at 2,000 pounds with trailer brakes. Trailer pre-wiring is standard. XRT also improves approach, departure, and ramp breakover angles compared with standard gas configurations. For drivers who want the style and utility of the SANTA FE with more confidence for light adventure, towing needs, or rougher surfaces, XRT is a compelling choice.