2025 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 2025 Ford Explorer: Which SUV Fits Your Lifestyle?
September 03 2025,
The midsize SUV market is more competitive than ever, with the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe and Ford Explorer leading the charge for families seeking space, comfort, and reliability. While both promise to handle school runs, weekend adventures, and everything in between, each brings unique strengths to the table.
Horsepower and Torque You Can Feel
The Ford Explorer delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque from its 2.3-litre I-4 gasoline engine. The Hyundai Santa Fe offers both gasoline and hybrid options, producing 231 to 277 horsepower with 271 to 311 lb-ft of torque, depending on trim. Both SUVs deliver strong performance, but Santa Fe provides added flexibility with its hybrid option.
Build & Price your own 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe
Efficiency Built for Canadian Roads
The Ford Explorer posts fuel ratings of 11.9 L/100km in the city, 8.7 L/100km on the highway, and 10.5 L/100km combined. The Hyundai Santa Fe ranges depending on trim, from 10.6 L/100km combined in higher trims to just 6.9 L/100km combined with the hybrid Preferred with Trend Package. That means Santa Fe offers significantly better fuel savings, especially for drivers who prefer hybrid technology.
Safety Ratings That Inspire Confidence
The Explorer earns a 5-star Side Impact rating, a 4-star rollover score, and a 5-star Frontal Crash rating, averaging to an overall NHTSA rating of 5.0. The Santa Fe balances with an overall NHTSA rating of 4.0, backed by 9 airbags compared to Explorer’s 8 airbags. Both deliver impressive safety, giving drivers peace of mind on busy highways and in city traffic alike.
Interior Space and Cargo Versatility
The Explorer offers cargo room from 462 to 1,264 litres, while the Santa Fe provides a range of 413 to 1,148 litres. Both SUVs include split-folding rear seats for flexible storage, while Explorer edges ahead slightly in max capacity. Still, Santa Fe balances its slightly smaller cargo hold with smart packaging and thoughtful cabin design.
Tech That Keeps You Connected
Both SUVs feature a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. The Explorer includes remote engine start, a 360° camera, and adaptive cruise with stop-and-go. The Santa Fe matches with keyless entry, heated steering wheel, remote hatch release, and adds a hands-free liftgate that Explorer doesn’t offer. Both cabins come with heated, power-adjustable front seats, ensuring comfort at every turn.
Style and Everyday Convenience
The Explorer rides on 20-inch alloys and comes with LED headlights, while the Santa Fe rolls on 18-inch alloys and offers LED lighting plus a standard sunroof. Both include heated mirrors, auto-dimming rearview mirrors, and multi-zone climate control, making each SUV well-rounded for Canadian winters and summers alike.
Test Drive the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe at Canyon Meadows Hyundai
When choosing between these two, both bring strength, safety, and modern technology. But with its competitive price, flexible hybrid option, and longer warranty coverage, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is designed to deliver value and versatility for Canadian families. Visit Canyon Meadows Hyundai to explore the Santa Fe lineup in person. Book your test drive today and let our team in Alberta show you why Hyundai continues to raise the bar for everyday driving.
