Every year, The Drive evaluates dozens of vehicles across multiple categories to determine which models truly lead the pack. For 2026, the publication selected the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid as the best hybrid on the market.

This isn't an award based on a single test drive or a spec sheet. The Drive's editors assess vehicles on real-world performance, value, design and how well they serve everyday drivers. The fact that the Santa Fe Hybrid rose above stiff competition from established rivals says a lot about how far Hyundai's hybrid technology has come.

For Earnhardt Hyundai customers, this recognition serves as a strong, independent endorsement. When a trusted third party puts this vehicle at the top of its class, it gives buyers added confidence that they're making a smart choice. It's the kind of validation that goes beyond marketing. It comes from the people who drive and evaluate cars for a living.

Key Features That Set the 2026 Santa Fe Hybrid Apart

The current-generation Santa Fe Hybrid represents a major leap forward in design, technology and capability. Hyundai completely redesigned the Santa Fe for this generation, and the hybrid variant carries that same bold, modern look.

Powertrain

The 2026 Santa Fe Hybrid is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The combined system output is approximately 231 horsepower, providing confident acceleration for highway merging and everyday driving in Gilbert.

Interior and Space

The Santa Fe has long been one of the roomier options in the midsize SUV segment. The 2026 Hybrid offers generous rear legroom and a cargo area that measures approximately 72.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The interior features a clean, modern dashboard design with dual screens — a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Exterior Design

This generation of Santa Fe introduced a distinctive, boxy silhouette that sets it apart from the crowd. The design is inspired by outdoor adventure — think clean lines, a wider stance and an overall look that's both rugged and refined. It's a head-turner in any parking lot.

Safety

Hyundai's SmartSense suite comes standard, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control and blind-spot collision-avoidance assist. Highway Driving Assist can be added to make long distance travel even less stressful.

Fuel Economy and Hybrid Performance

One of the biggest reasons shoppers consider a hybrid is fuel economy. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid delivers.

EPA-estimated fuel economy for front-wheel-drive models comes in at 37 mpg city, 36 mpg highway and 36 mpg combined. All-wheel-drive models are rated at 35 mpg city, 34 mpg highway and 34 mpg combined.

According to the Department of Energy’s fuel calculator, these hybrid SUVs can save you about $700 a year. That’s compared to a typical 24-mpg SUV on the same roads.

How does it compare? Here's a quick look at the competitive landscape:

While some competitors may edge the Santa Fe Hybrid slightly on raw MPG numbers, it's worth remembering that the Santa Fe is a larger vehicle with more interior and cargo space.

• Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: 41 mpg city / 38 mpg highway / 39 mpg combined
• Honda CR-V Hybrid: 43 mpg city / 36 mpg highway / 40 mpg combined
• Kia Sportage Hybrid: 44 mpg city / 41 mpg highway / 42 mpg combined

When you choose the award-winning Santa Fe Hybrid, you're getting more room without sacrificing much at the pump. Plus you are moving more people, up to 7, whereas the Toyota RAV4, CR-V and Sportage are all limited to 5.

2026 Santa Fe Hybrid Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid trim levels offer competitive price points and outstanding packages at each rung of the ladder.

• Hybrid SE: Starting MSRP $36,400. Standard features include the 12.3-inch dual-screen setup, Yes Essentials stain-resistant cloth seats, reclining second-row seats, hands-free liftgate and the full SmartSense safety suite.


• Hybrid SEL: Starting MSRP $38,650. The interior dresses up with H-Tex upholstery, and drivers enjoy more technology, including a wireless charger, the Digital Key 2 Premium, and more crash avoidance tech tools.


• Hybrid Limited: Starting MSRP $45,700. This trim level adds leather seating, ventilated front seats, 2nd-row captain’s chairs, and a blind-spot monitor.


• Hybrid Calligraphy: Starting MSRP $48,700. The flagship trim includes a premium Bose sound system, head-up display, Nappa leather seats, a driver memory system and Highway Driving Assist 2.

Arizona Drivers Take Note: Ventilated front seats, available on the Limited and above, are a welcome feature during Arizona's intense summers.

Every trim delivers strong value for the money, but no matter which you choose, you're getting an award-winning hybrid powertrain. Hyundai's comprehensive warranty includes a 5-year/60,000-mile limited and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Test-Drive the Award-Winning Santa Fe Hybrid at Earnhardt Hyundai

The experts have spoken. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is the best hybrid you can buy. Now it's your turn to experience it firsthand.

Earnhardt Hyundai in Avondale offers a No Bull approach to car buying. You can expect straightforward pricing, knowledgeable staff and a pressure-free experience.

Schedule a test drive of the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid at Earnhardt Hyundai in Avondale today. You can also browse current Santa Fe Hybrid inventory online to find the trim and color that's right for you.

When a vehicle wins The Drive's Best Hybrid award, it's worth a closer look. When it's available at Earnhardt Hyundai in Avondale— it's worth a visit.