Hyundai Santa Fe vs Porsche Cayenne

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne presented itself as a versatile SUV, available in both a standard model with a squared-off rear and a sporty Cayenne Coupe. The lineup ranged from the base Cayenne to the high-performance Cayenne Turbo GT, each with unique exterior features. The GTS trim, which was the focus of this review, boasted high gloss black trim, bronze exhaust tips, and a distinctive front fascia with larger air intakes to cool its V8 engine. The GTS also featured tinted headlights and red brake calipers visible through 21-inch anthracite gray wheels. Inside, the Cayenne offered extensive customization options, from color choices to trim and seat belts, though these could significantly increase the price. The cabin was well-organized, with mechanical controls for essential functions and a dashboard-mounted shifter toggle that freed up storage space.

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe, redesigned in 2024, aimed to maximize practicality with a third-row seat and a boxy back end, resulting in a polarizing design. The XRT trim, tested here, featured a rugged look with a blacked-out appearance, which was more appealing in lighter colors. The model's all-terrain tires and raised suspension enhanced its off-road capabilities, though it wasn't as aerodynamic as other trims, affecting fuel economy. The interior offered a high-tech display, quality materials, and ample storage space, with easy-to-use knobs and buttons. However, the gloss-black control panel was prone to collecting dust. Despite its off-road focus, the Santa Fe XRT was easy to park and provided a smooth driving experience with its new eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a range of engines, all capable of delivering impressive performance. The base model featured a 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 348 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, the Cayenne S offered a V8 with 468 hp, while the Turbo GT boasted 650 hp, though only available as a coupe. Plug-in hybrid options provided up to 729 hp. The GTS trim, with its twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, delivered 493 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed transmission and all-wheel drive. Porsche claimed a 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 171 mph. The GTS trim struck a balance between sporty and comfortable, with precise steering and an agile suspension system. Optional carbon ceramic brakes provided ample stopping power, while drive modes allowed for a customizable driving experience.

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a standard 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The new eight-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter offered a smoother driving experience. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive optional on most trims and standard on the XRT. The XRT's off-road capabilities were enhanced by all-terrain tires, a raised suspension, and additional driving modes. However, its aerodynamics were compromised, resulting in a lower fuel economy rating of 21 mpg combined. The Santa Fe Hybrid offered better fuel efficiency at 34 mpg combined but was not available in the XRT trim. The XRT performed well on moderately rutted trails but lacked a front-view camera system for tighter trail work. On-road, the engine provided effortless acceleration, and the new transmission was smooth and unobtrusive.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a la carte customization, with limited standard features on the base model. The GTS trim included a GT Sport steering wheel and Race-Tex headliner, with options for Race-Tex or leather interiors. The Turbo GT added stainless steel pedal pads and illuminated carbon fiber door-sill guards. The options list was extensive, allowing for personalization of various interior elements. The Cayenne accommodated five passengers, with a comfortable second row and ample headroom. Towing capacity was impressive at over 7,700 pounds, but cargo space was smaller than competitors, with 27.3 cubic feet behind the second row and 60 cubic feet with seats folded. The coupe version offered less space, and plug-in hybrid models further reduced cargo capacity.

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe prioritized practicality and utility, though the XRT trim lacked some desirable features like a panoramic sunroof and ventilated front seats. Entry and exit were easy, and the interior provided a comfortable seating position with good visibility. The third-row seat was best for occasional use, as access was challenging for adults. Thoughtful touches included dual wireless charging pads, a manually height-adjustable front passenger seat, and convenient storage solutions. The power hands-free liftgate revealed 14.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 40.5 cubic feet with it folded, and 79.6 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne featured a 12.6-inch digital gauge cluster with up to seven views, depending on the trim. A 12.3-inch touchscreen ran the Porsche Communication Management system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Spotify, Apple Music, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. An optional 10.9-inch passenger screen allowed for navigation and media control. The head-up display provided essential information, though it appeared dim with polarized sunglasses. Four USB-C charging ports and a cooled wireless charging area were standard.

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe's dashboard featured a dual-screen panel, with digital gauges and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system angled towards the driver. Standard tech included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Bluelink+ connected services. Optional features included a native navigation system, dynamic voice recognition, and Hyundai Pay technology. Bluelink+ offered safety and convenience features, such as automatic collision notification, remote engine starting, and more, complimentary for the vehicle's lifetime.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered standard parking sensors, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring, but adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-departure warning were optional. Porsche's InnoDrive adaptive cruise control system was not tested. The Cayenne had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS for safety.

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including junction turning detection, parking sensors, and safe-exit assist. Higher trims featured Highway Driving Assist, requiring minimal driver input. A driver-attention monitor ensured focus, and navigation-based speed control was optional. NHTSA awarded the Santa Fe a five-star overall rating, while IIHS named it a 2026 Top Safety Pick+.