2025 Hyundai Santa Fe VS Kia Telluride

If you’re shopping for a midsize SUV, the 2025 Hyundai SANTA FE and Kia Telluride are probably at the top of your list. They offer impressive performance, bold designs, and advanced features while catering to slightly different needs. In this article, our team at Titus-Will Hyundai will explore the Kia Telluride and Hyundai SANTA FE in detail to help you compare cars and decide which SUV deserves a spot in your driveway.

Overview of the 2025 Hyundai SANTA FE vs. Kia Telluride

The 2025 Hyundai SANTA FE has undergone a bold redesign with a boxier and more rugged look. With seats for up to seven, the SANTA FE is a good balance between a compact and midsize SUV. Meanwhile, the 2025 Kia Telluride is a family-friendly three-row SUV offering spacious seating for up to eight passengers.

Key Points To Consider

When comparing the Hyundai SANTA FE and Kia Telluride, keep the following key factors in mind:

• Pricing and value
• Performance and efficiency
• Design and aesthetics
• Safety features and ratings
• Technology and connectivity
• Cargo space and practicality
• Towing capacity
• Warranty and maintenance costs

Pricing and Value

The starting price for the 2025 Hyundai SANTA FE ranges from $42,499 to $54,799, while the 2025 Kia Telluride ranges from $50,695 to $63,395. The SANTA FE is slightly more affordable than the Telluride. However, the Telluride offers more seating and cargo space, which could justify its higher price for larger families. The SANTA FE excels in features, including an available plug-in hybrid option if you’re an eco-conscious buyer.

Performance and Efficiency

The Hyundai SANTA FE comes with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 277 hp, while the Kia Telluride has a 3.8-liter V-6 engine that delivers 291 hp. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Hyundai SANTA FE offers 19-20 mpg in the city and 26-29 mpg on the highway. In comparison, the Kia Telluride is rated at 18-20 mpg in the city and 24-26 mpg on the highway. The SANTA FE takes the lead here, making it the better option for overall efficiency and long road trips.

Design and Aesthetics

The SANTA FE’s boxy design, squared-off silhouette, and bold LED lighting give it a rugged charm, while the Telluride has a refined yet muscular look. Its larger size adds to its overall presence, making it the perfect choice for a commanding SUV. The Hyundai SANTA FE is shorter and narrower at 190.2 inches long and 74.8 inches wide compared to the Kia Telluride’s 196.9 inches and 78.3 inches, respectively.

Inside, the SANTA FE is all about modern simplicity with high-quality materials and an available panoramic display. The Telluride, however, focuses on luxury, offering available Nappa leather upholstery, ventilated seats, and generous legroom in all three rows.

Safety and Security

Both SUVs are packed with advanced safety tech, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has rated the 2025 SANTA FE and the 2025 Kia Telluride a Top Safety Pick+ for peace of mind. Both vehicles include nine airbags for improved passenger protection.

Tech, Infotainment, and Connectivity

The SANTA FE boasts the latest tech, such as a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, while features such as an available Hyundai digital key let you unlock and start your SUV with your smartphone. The Telluride holds its own with dual 12.3-inch displays, a head-up display, and advanced driver-assistance tech. While both SUVs offer modern connectivity, the Telluride offers larger displays, while the SANTA FE’s layout prioritizes simplicity and accessibility.

Cargo Space, Seating, and Practicality

The Hyundai SANTA FE seats six to seven passengers, while the Kia Telluride seats seven to eight passengers. In terms of cargo space, the Telluride offers 87.0 cubic feet of cargo space vs. SANTA FE’s 79.6 cubic feet, making it a better choice for hauling gear or luggage. However, the SANTA FE still provides plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or camping gear. Its fold-flat second- and third-row seats make it easily adaptable for a weekend getaway or running errands.

Towing Capacity and Utility

For towing, the Kia Telluride has a clear advantage, towing 5,000-5,500 pounds compared to the SANTA FE’s 3,500-4,500 pounds. If you plan on towing trailers or boats, the Telluride is the more capable option. The SANTA FE’s capabilities are more than adequate for towing small trailers, boats, or recreational equipment.

Warranty, Maintenance, and Reliability

Both SUVs offer Hyundai and Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which are among the best in the industry for long-term peace of mind. While both models offer competitive maintenance costs, Hyundai’s reputation for lower routine maintenance expenses may give the SANTA FE a slight edge if you’re a budget-conscious buyer.

Choosing Between the Hyundai SANTA FE vs. Kia Telluride in 2025

The Hyundai SANTA FE promises affordability, fuel efficiency, and modern design, making it a great choice if you have a smaller family. Meanwhile, the Kia Telluride’s spacious interior, stronger towing capacity, and luxurious touches make it ideal if you have a larger family or you’re looking for premium features. If you value efficiency, sleek design, and affordability, the 2025 Hyundai SANTA FE may be your best bet. However, if you prioritize space, towing power, and luxury, the 2025 Kia Telluride is hard to beat. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your specific needs. Visit us in Olympia, Washington, to test-drive the 2025 Hyundai SANTA FE today.

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