How Does Hyundai Santa Fe Compare to Kia Sorento?
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 2025 Kia Sorento
General Comparison
If you’re looking for the most capability in a 3-row midsize SUV, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offers astounding value. Comparing the Santa Fe SE and its standard 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with a comparable 2.5-liter turbo 2025 Kia Sorento EX, the Santa Fe offers a more attractive package overall. Starting with pricing, the Santa Fe SE 2.5T comes in at thousands less compared to the Sorento EX 2.5T, offering better value for money without compromising on features.
Verdict: The Hyundai Santa Fe SE offers superior value with a lower starting price and a more comprehensive warranty, making it the smarter financial choice.
| 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE 2.5T | 2025 Kia Sorento EX 2.5T | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP* | $34,200 | $38,090 |
| Maximum Cargo Volume (cu. ft) | 79.6 | 75.5 |
| Max Seating Capacity | 7 | 6 |
| Front Headroom (in) | 41.1 | 40.3 |
| Middle Headroom (in) | 40.6 | 39.1 |
| Rear Headroom (in) | 37.7 | 36.8 |
| Front Legroom (in) | 44.4 | 41.4 |
| Middle Legroom (in) | 41.5 | 40.7 |
| Rear Legroom (in) | 30 | 29.6 |
Performance Comparison
Both the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE and the 2025 Kia Sorento EX are equipped with 2.5-liter turbocharged engines, delivering impressive power for mid-size SUVs. The Santa Fe SE 2.5T generates 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, which provides strong acceleration and towing capabilities. The Sorento EX 2.5T, while similar in engine size, produces the same power output, but the Santa Fe SE 2.5T’s tuning gives it a more responsive feel on the road.
The Santa Fe SE also benefits from an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which provides smooth, quick shifts. This enhances the driving experience, especially during spirited driving or when merging onto highways. Additionally, the Santa Fe’s suspension is finely tuned to offer a balanced ride, effectively absorbing road imperfections while maintaining agility.
Verdict: The Hyundai Santa Fe SE edges out the Sorento EX 2.5T in performance, thanks to its refined transmission and superior handling characteristics.
Exterior Design and Features
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE 2.5T boasts a bold and sophisticated exterior design, characterized by its distinctive front grille, sleek LED headlights, and dynamic body lines. The Santa Fe’s design is modern and upscale while being boxy and rugged, making it stand out in any setting. In contrast, the 2025 Kia Sorento EX, while appealing, doesn’t offer the same level of visual impact as the Santa Fe.
In terms of exterior features, the Santa Fe offers ample customization options, including available 20-inch alloy wheels that add to its commanding presence on the road. The Santa Fe also includes LED daytime running lights and taillights as standard, enhancing both safety and aesthetics. These features contribute to the Santa Fe’s overall premium feel.
Verdict: The Hyundai Santa Fe wins in the exterior design category with its bold, modern aesthetics and superior standard features.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the Hyundai Santa Fe continues to impress with a spacious and luxurious cabin. The Santa Fe offers ample legroom and headroom for all passengers, making it a comfortable choice for both short trips and long journeys. Santa Fe gives you more headroom and legroom than Sorento in each row of seats. Santa Fe also offers 7-passenger seating, 1 more than the Sorento EX. The interior materials are of high quality, with soft-touch surfaces and premium accents that create an upscale atmosphere.
The Santa Fe SE comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For those who desire more advanced tech, an available 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and additional features is offered. The Sorento EX 2.5T also has a comparable infotainment system, but the Santa Fe’s interface is more intuitive and user-friendly.
Verdict: The Hyundai Santa Fe SE provides a more luxurious and tech-rich interior, coupled with superior safety features, making it the better choice for comfort and convenience.
Conclusion
In the head-to-head comparison between the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE and the 2025 Kia Sorento EX, the Santa Fe SE emerges as the clear leader. With its better value, superior warranty, refined performance, striking design, and luxurious interior, the Hyundai Santa Fe SE offers a more compelling package for those seeking a mid-size SUV that excels in every aspect. For drivers who prioritize quality, comfort, and a top-notch driving experience, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is the ideal choice.
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