What To Know
- The size difference translates into a noticeable advantage for the Santa Fe in terms of interior space and cargo capacity.
- The Santa Fe’s larger dimensions provide ample legroom and headroom for passengers in both rows, making it a comfortable choice for families or those who frequently carry passengers.
- Both the Santa Fe and the Tucson offer a range of features and technologies that enhance driving experience and safety.
Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular choices from Hyundai, the Santa Fe and the Tucson, often leave buyers wondering: what is bigger, the Hyundai Santa Fe or the Tucson? This blog post delves into the size differences between these two SUVs, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Exterior Dimensions: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Let’s start with the basics: physical dimensions. The Santa Fe clearly takes the lead in size:
- Length: Santa Fe (193.0 inches) vs. Tucson (182.1 inches)
- Width: Santa Fe (77.4 inches) vs. Tucson (73.0 inches)
- Height: Santa Fe (68.9 inches) vs. Tucson (66.7 inches)
- Wheelbase: Santa Fe (110.2 inches) vs. Tucson (106.3 inches)
These numbers reveal a significant size difference, with the Santa Fe being noticeably longer, wider, and taller than the Tucson. This translates to a more spacious interior and a commanding presence on the road.
Interior Space: Comfort and Cargo Capacity
The size difference translates into a noticeable advantage for the Santa Fe in terms of interior space and cargo capacity.
- Passenger Volume: Santa Fe (141.8 cubic feet) vs. Tucson (108.9 cubic feet)
- Cargo Space: Santa Fe (35.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats) vs. Tucson (29.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats)
The Santa Fe’s larger dimensions provide ample legroom and headroom for passengers in both rows, making it a comfortable choice for families or those who frequently carry passengers. The Santa Fe’s cargo space is also significantly larger, offering more room for luggage, groceries, or other cargo.
Third-Row Seating: A Family-Friendly Feature
The Santa Fe offers an optional third row of seating, further enhancing its family-friendly appeal. The Tucson, however, does not have this option. The third row in the Santa Fe is best suited for children or occasional use, as legroom and headroom are limited. Nonetheless, it provides additional flexibility for larger families or those who need to transport more passengers.
Driving Experience: Handling and Performance
While the Santa Fe’s larger size provides a spacious interior and ample cargo space, it can affect handling and performance. The Tucson, being smaller and lighter, offers a more nimble and agile driving experience. It’s easier to maneuver in tight spaces and provides a more responsive feel on the road.
Fuel Efficiency: A Consideration for Everyday Driving
The Tucson’s smaller size and lighter weight translate into better fuel efficiency compared to the Santa Fe. This is especially important for those who prioritize fuel economy for daily driving or frequent commutes.
Price Point: Finding the Right Value
The Santa Fe, with its larger size and additional features, typically comes with a higher price tag compared to the Tucson. The Tucson, being a smaller and more affordable option, is ideal for those on a tighter budget.
Choosing the Right SUV: Your Needs Matter
Ultimately, the decision of whether to choose the Santa Fe or the Tucson boils down to your individual needs and priorities. If you prioritize space, comfort, and family-friendly features, the Santa Fe is the clear winner. If you value maneuverability, fuel efficiency, and a more affordable price point, the Tucson might be the better choice.
Beyond Size: Features and Technology
While size is a crucial factor, it’s not the only consideration. Both the Santa Fe and the Tucson offer a range of features and technologies that enhance driving experience and safety. These include:
- Advanced Safety Features: Both SUVs come equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), such as lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
- Infotainment Systems: Both vehicles offer intuitive infotainment systems with touchscreen displays, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration.
- Engine Options: Both the Santa Fe and Tucson offer a variety of engine options, including gasoline and hybrid powertrains.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Perfect Match
The Hyundai Santa Fe and Tucson are both excellent SUVs, each offering a unique set of advantages. The Santa Fe stands out with its spacious interior, third-row seating option, and commanding presence. The Tucson, on the other hand, provides a more nimble driving experience, better fuel efficiency, and a more affordable price point. By carefully considering your individual needs and priorities, you can determine which SUV is the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Popular Questions
Q: What is the starting price for the Hyundai Santa Fe and Tucson?
A: The starting price for the Hyundai Santa Fe is around $30,000, while the starting price for the Tucson is around $26,000.
Q: Does the Hyundai Santa Fe have all-wheel drive (AWD)?
A: Yes, both the Santa Fe and the Tucson offer all-wheel drive (AWD) options.
Q: Which SUV has better fuel efficiency?
A: The Hyundai Tucson generally offers better fuel efficiency than the Santa Fe due to its smaller size and lighter weight.
Q: What are the key differences between the Hyundai Santa Fe and Tucson?
A: The key differences lie in size, interior space, cargo capacity, third-row seating option, and price point. The Santa Fe is larger, more spacious, and more expensive, while the Tucson is smaller, more affordable, and offers better fuel efficiency.
