Hyundai Santa Fe vs Kia EV9

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a midsize, three-row SUV that sits at the smaller end of the segment, while the Hyundai Palisade lives among the larger players in the class. Nevertheless, thanks to its boxy shape and thoughtfully crafted interior, shoppers might decide bigger isn’t necessarily better. The 2026 Santa Fe gets a new transmission, added safety features, and minor equipment and packaging updates. The Santa Fe Hybrid returns, too, but we’ll cover that in a separate review.

Verdict: Polarizing design aside, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is a brilliant, family-friendly crossover SUV. We tested the XRT version, which trades fuel economy for off-road capability, so buyers who don’t need that should pick a different trim level.

Kia’s three-row electric SUV is available in single- or dual-motor configurations with up to 305 miles of range, recharges fast, and is compatible with Tesla Superchargers. Upgrades for 2026 include a longer range, a Nightfall Edition package, fresh colors, and a new Terrain driving mode.

Verdict: The 2026 Kia EV9 offers usable driving range and fast recharging times in a powerful, innovative, and practical midsize three-row electric SUV. Roomy, comfortable, safe, and well-equipped, the 2026 EV9 is a terrific, technologically advanced EV.