2026 Kia Sorento vs. Hyundai Santa Fe: Which is the Best Three-Row SUV?

Shoppers looking for a family-friendly, innovative, and peppy three-row SUV often end up comparing the 2026 Kia Sorento to the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe. The two roomy SUVs share a platform, as Kia and Hyundai are related brands, so many of the chassis and drivetrain features are similar. They also share exceptional reliability and build quality. Despite being brand-related, they have different approaches to comfort, performance, and daily-driving practicality.

If you’re deciding between the Sorento and the Santa Fe, read on to determine which one fits your driving needs and lifestyle. For more information in Chicago, Elmhurst, and Evergreen Park, the Berwyn Kia team is ready to help.

Which SUV is Better for Drivers Around Chicago, IL?

The Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe are three-row SUVs with seating for six or seven, depending on the configuration.

While the Sorento is available with two powertrain choices, the Santa Fe comes only with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 277 horsepower. The Sorento has the same engine, but it delivers 281 horsepower. The other Sorento engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 191 horsepower. Both models have an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available in both models and comes standard in the higher trim levels.

Where the two models differ is in appearance and trim levels. On the outside, the Sorento has

• Curvy, traditional SUV appearance with a bold grille and crystal LED headlamps
• Balanced rear that coordinates with the modern, sophisticated front end
• Up to 75.5 cubic feet of cargo space
• Eight trim levels

The Santa Fe features

• Boxy exterior appearance with H-shaped LED headlights
• Futuristic rear with a wide tailgate opening and matching H-shaped taillights
• Up to 80 cubic feet of cargo space
• Five trim levels

Since both models come with similar features and configurations, many shoppers choose a three-row SUV based on the way it looks. The Hyundai Santa Fe has styling features that resemble a minivan - especially from the back, so drivers wanting a vehicle with the look of an SUV will prefer the 2026 Kia Sorento.

What Tech Comes Standard in the 2026 Kia Sorento?

The 2026 Kia Sorento is available in several trims, but the entry-level Sorento LX comes surprisingly well-equipped. It features the standard 191-horsepower engine and front-wheel drive. On the inside, it comes with a 4.3-inch digital information display, six USB ports, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, voice recognition, and six speakers.

Standard safety features include Blind-Spot Monitoring, Forward Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Parallel-Exit Assist, Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection, Intersection Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane-Departure Warning, Lane-Keep and Lane-Centering Assist, Stop-and-Go Automatic Cruise Control, and more.

What Tech Comes Standard in the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe?

The entry-level Hyundai Santa Fe comes similarly equipped, although the standard engine is the 277-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder. On the inside, the Santa Fe has a 4.2-inch digital information display and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen with wireless connectivity, four USB ports, and HD radio, along with the same apps as the Sorento.

The Santa Fe has many of the same safety features, but it does not come with standard Parallel-Exit Assist and Blind-Spot Monitoring, which are helpful for drivers in Chicagoland.

How Do Comfort Features Vary in the Sorento and Santa Fe?

In the Chicago area, some comfort features are must-haves, especially heated seats and a heated steering wheel in the winter and ventilated seats in the summer. The Sorento S and Santa Fe SEL have heated seats. The Sorento SX adds ventilated seats, while the Santa Fe Limited adds all heating and cooling features - including heated second-row seats. Drivers must move to the Sorento SX Prestige to get the same weather-friendly features.

What’s the Difference with Pricing, Features, and Value?

Because the Sorento and Santa Fe have so many similar features, choosing your favorite model could come down to price and value. The 2026 Kia Sorento has more trims, and with that comes:

• Competitive pricing across the trim levels
• Strong value in the mid-range models like EX and SX
• X-Line models give a premium look for a competitive price
• More equipment compared to competitors

If you appreciate the look of the Hyundai Santa Fe, it’s important to know the SUV has

• Higher price due to its rugged styling and recent redesign
• Standout design and upscale interior make it popular with families who want something unique
• Standard engine adds to the sticker price

Overall, the Kia Sorento delivers more choice at a better price point, while the Santa Fe brings premium styling and features with fewer trim levels.

Why is the 2026 Kia Sorento a Better & Balanced SUV for Chicago Drivers?

When it comes to the best, balanced three-row SUV, the 2026 Kia Sorento wins the competition. It’s not a rugged off-road beast or flashy urban crossover. Instead, it’s a versatile, practical, and comfortable SUV that fits confidently in the middle ground. The Berwyn Kia team is certain you’ll enjoy the Kia Sorento because

• Well-suited for families who want a midsize SUV that is mature and sophisticated without looking too boxy
• Clean design lines and optional features (roof rails, liftgate, and trim levels) make it perfect for daily commuting and weekend adventures
• Available in rugged and premium trims for drivers who want more without sacrificing daily practicality and EPA-estimated fuel efficiency

Find Your Favorite 2026 Kia Sorento at Berwyn Kia in Chicago, IL

We invite you to browse the inventory of 2026 Kia Sorento models at Berwyn Kia in Chicago, IL. Our friendly and knowledgeable team can arrange a test drive, then help you choose the best trim and seating configuration for your lifestyle and driving needs. After your test drive, our finance team can build a loan or lease with the latest incentives and offers.