2023 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2023 Hyundai Tucson
If you’re in the market for a midsize SUV in Virginia Beach, Virginia, you’ve likely come across the 2023 Hyundai SANTA FE, and the 2023 Hyundai TUCSON, and you probably have some questions about what differentiates them. This comprehensive comparison of two of Hyundai’s finest SUVs will answer all your questions.
As you delve into the realm of Hyundai’s compact and midsize crossovers, you’ll discover the unique characteristics, features, and capabilities that make each of these vehicles a compelling choice. Whether you’re looking for a versatile family vehicle or an adventure-ready companion, we explore how the TUCSON and SANTA FE can cater to your needs and elevate your driving experience. So let’s dive in and discover which Hyundai SUV is the perfect fit for your next adventure.
Design and Exterior

Both the TUCSON and SANTA FE showcase Hyundai’s commitment to bold and dynamic design language. The TUCSON boasts a sporty and youthful appeal with its sleek lines, prominent grille, and modern LED lighting signature. In contrast, the SANTA FE has a more commanding presence, featuring a muscular stance, cascading grille, and aggressive styling elements. Regardless of your preference, both SUVs offer various exterior colors and wheel designs to suit your taste.
Both vehicles offer two-row crossover SUV convenience with seating for five, but the SANTA FE is slightly larger than the TUCSON. Measuring a few inches longer and just over an inch wider, the SANTA FE has just over 3 cubic feet of additional passenger space compared with the TUCSON.
Interior and Comfort
Once you step inside the TUCSON or SANTA FE, you’ll be greeted by well-crafted interiors that prioritize comfort and convenience. The Hyundai TUCSON offers a modern, minimalist cabin with an ergonomic layout, premium materials, and ample space for passengers and cargo. The SANTA FE delivers a more refined and upscale feel, with luxurious touches, enhanced sound insulation, and additional legroom for rear-seat passengers.
Both vehicles offer similar cargo space, but the TUCSON has a slight advantage over the SANTA FE, despite being the smaller of the two cars. The Hyundai TUCSON has 38.7 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 74.8 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded flat. The SANTA FE offers 36.4 cubic feet with the rear seats upright and 72.1 cubic feet when folded flat.
Technology and Connectivity
Regarding technology, Hyundai has made sure to equip the TUCSON and SANTA FE with the latest advancements to keep you connected and entertained. Both SUVs offer an intuitive touch-screen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. However, the SANTA FE takes it further with a larger digital gauge display and additional features such as a head-up display, wireless charging, and a premium sound system. Meanwhile, the TUCSON focuses on offering a user-friendly and straightforward tech experience.
Performance and Capability
Under the hood, the TUCSON and SANTA FE offer a range of capable powertrains to suit your driving preferences. The TUCSON is only available with a 2.5L181-horsepower engine in all its trim levels. However, the SANTA FE has two options depending on your trim level. The SANTA FE SE, SEL, and XRT produce power from a 2.5L in-line four-cylinder that makes 191 horsepower, and the higher-trim Limited and Calligraphy editions add a turbocharger to the configuration to produce nearly 100 more horses at 281 horsepower.
Both vehicles have responsive handling and agile driving dynamics, making them an ideal choice for urban environments. The SANTA FE and TUCSON also have optional all-wheel drive and advanced traction-control systems, providing enhanced capability for off-road adventures.
The TUCSON claims 28 miles per gallon on front-wheel-drive-equipped models and 25 when equipped with an optional all-wheel-drive system. The Hyundai SANTA FE claims 26 miles per gallon for the nonturbo engines and 25 for higher trims with turbocharged engines when paired with a front-wheel-drive transmission. The all-wheel-drive system claims 24 miles per gallon, regardless of engine configuration.
Safety Features
Hyundai emphasizes safety, and the TUCSON and the SANTA FE reflect this commitment. Both SUVs have advanced safety features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. The SANTA FE also offers additional safety technologies, such as a surround-view camera system and rear occupant alert. Hyundai’s dedication to safety ensures peace of mind for you and your loved ones, no matter which SUV you choose.
Cost
The Hyundai TUCSON is available in five trim levels, starting with the SE trim, which has an MSRP of $26,900. On the other end of the scale is the Limited trim. This is the highest trim level available, and it has an MSRP of $36,160.
The SANTA FE’s base trim is also the SE, and it has a slightly higher MSRP of $28,750. The Hyundai SANTA FE features five trim levels to choose from, with the Calligraphy trim level being the highest of the five. The SANTA FE Calligraphy has an MSRP of $42,600.
The Hyundai TUCSON and SANTA FE offer distinct qualities that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. If you desire a compact and agile crossover that excels in urban environments, the TUCSON might be the perfect choice for you. In contrast, if you’re seeking a spacious and commanding midsize SUV with powerful performance, the SANTA FE could be the ideal match. Whichever you choose, the TUCSON and SANTA FE showcase Hyundai’s commitment to quality, design, safety, and technology, ensuring an enjoyable and reliable driving experience for years.
Ready To Find Your Next Perfect Hyundai?
Find your perfect Hyundai TUCSON or SANTA FE today by searching our available inventory of new vehicles. While you’re there, check out our financing department and get approved for your new car before stepping on the lot. No matter which Hyundai SUV you choose for your Virginia Beach adventures, you can rest assured that you’ll get a vehicle that excels in quality, design, safety, and technology. Make your choice and contact us today to experience the Hyundai difference for yourself.
Hyundai SANTA FE on the parking lot under the cloudy sky by Hyundai Motor Group is licensed with Unsplash License
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