• Crain Hyundai of Bentonville

Feb 17, 2025
Side-by-side comparison of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2025 Toyota Highlander SUVs with bold VS graphic overlay

Finding Your Perfect SUV

Choosing a midsize SUV isn’t easy, but the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2025 Toyota Highlander are two of the top options on the market. Both offer great features, safety, and performance, but which fits your needs? Let’s take a closer look to help you decide.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is known for its bold design, roomy interior, and versatile engine choices, including hybrid models. On the other hand, the 2025 Toyota Highlander is a dependable, family-friendly SUV. However, the Highlander comes with a higher price tag.

Performance and Powertrain Options

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe gives you two engine options:

  • A 2.5L engine with 191 horsepower.
  • A turbocharged 2.5L engine with 277 horsepower for drivers who want more power.

It also offers a hybrid model, which provides excellent fuel efficiency and lower emissions. This makes it a smart pick for eco-conscious drivers in Bentonville.

The 2025 Toyota Highlander has a 2.4L turbocharged engine with 265 horsepower and a hybrid option. Both SUVs perform well, but the Santa Fe’s turbo engine offers more horsepower, which is great if you want stronger performance.

Off-Road Capability

The Hyundai Santa Fe XRT trim is built for adventure. It comes with skid plates, off-road tires, and advanced all-wheel drive, making it perfect for trails near Bentonville or trips across the Natural State.

The Toyota Highlander has an all-wheel-drive option but doesn’t include an off-road-specific trim like the Santa Fe XRT. If you’re looking for a rugged SUV, the Santa Fe is the better choice.

Technology Features

Both SUVs are packed with modern technology, but the Santa Fe offers great features at a more affordable price.

2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Highlights:

  • Standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
  • Optional 12.3-inch digital display and infotainment screen.
  • Premium features include a Harman Kardon audio system, wireless charging, and a 360-degree camera.

2025 Toyota Highlander Highlights:

  • A 12.3-inch touchscreen comes standard on higher trims.
  • Options include a JBL premium sound system and wireless charging.

While the Highlander has a larger screen in higher trims, the Santa Fe provides similar features at a lower cost.

Interior Space and Comfort

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, with its third-row option, now seats up to seven passengers. The spacious interior has premium touches like quilted leather seats and a panoramic sunroof. There’s plenty of cargo space for groceries, luggage, or outdoor gear.

The 2025 Toyota Highlander can seat up to eight passengers, but its third row is tight and less comfortable, especially for adults. While it offers luxury options in higher trims, the Highlander’s price is significantly higher than the Santa Fe’s Calligraphy trim, which includes similar premium features.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Both SUVs include advanced safety features to protect you and your passengers.

Hyundai Santa Fe Safety Highlights:

  • Hyundai SmartSense includes Forward Collision Avoidance, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance, and Lane-Keeping Assist.
  • Highway Driving Assist, available in higher trims, offers semi-autonomous driving for long highway trips.

Toyota Highlander Safety Highlights:

  • Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, features Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alerts, and Automatic Emergency Braking.

The Santa Fe’s Highway Driving Assist gives it an edge by offering features that make highway driving easier and safer.

Which SUV is Best for You?

The 2025 Toyota Highlander is a reliable choice for larger families who need more seating. However, its higher price and less versatile trims make it less appealing if you want value.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe stands out with its bold design, strong engine options, and advanced tech—all at a more affordable price. For Bentonville drivers who want a stylish, feature-packed SUV, the Santa Fe is a smart choice.

Test Drive the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe at Crain Hyundai of Bentonville

Discover the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe today at Crain Hyundai of Bentonville. Whether you need a family SUV, an off-road-ready trim, or the latest technology, the Santa Fe has it all. Schedule a test drive or stop by today. You can explore our new and used inventory online to find the perfect model for your lifestyle.