The redesigned 2026 Hyundai SANTA FE gives families in Texas exactly what they want: ample space without feeling like they're driving a bus. This three-row midsize SUV strikes a balance between the smaller crossovers and the huge family haulers. Let our Huffines Hyundai Plano interior guide demonstrate how this practical SUV meets all your needs, from passenger capacity to storage options and more.
2026 Hyundai SANTA FE Cargo Capacity Breakdown
The 14.6-cubic-foot cargo capacity behind the third row is ideal for groceries or sports bags, while folding the third row down gives you 40.5 cubic feet, which is enough for strollers or camping gear. The Hyundai SANTA FE's cargo space with the seats down expands to a maximum 79.6-cubic-foot area. Real-world testing illustrates what this SUV can carry. Five carry-on suitcases were slotted in behind the third row, as many as 16 cases were packed in behind the second row, and a total of 34 suitcases were loaded with all the seats folded.
The cargo floor sits low, so you can put less strain on your back when loading heavy items, and the wide tailgate opening allows you to load without awkward angles while trying to slide in that new TV or IKEA bookshelf. Additionally, the floor is flat when the seats are folded, so there are no annoying bumps or ridges to contend with.
If you're considering an electric vehicle, a smart choice for Dallas-Fort Worth commutes, the 2026 Hyundai SANTA FE Hybrid's cargo space is much the same, except for slightly less room behind the third row, as this is where the battery is stored. Most families likely won't notice the minimal difference.
Interior Passenger Dimensions by Row
The Hyundai SANTA FE's interior dimensions of 166.6 cubic feet demonstrate it doesn't skimp on space. When you analyze the passenger space, you're looking at 61 cubic feet up front, 56 cubic feet in the middle, and 33 cubic feet in the third row. Drivers and front passengers get 41.1 inches of headroom, 44.4 inches of legroom, 59.5 inches of shoulder room, and 56.5 inches of hip room. Higher trims include heated and cooled front seats with power adjustments for optimal comfort during long drives.
The middle row is where the SANTA FE shines compared to competitors. You get a spacious 42.3 inches of legroom, 58.1 inches for shoulders, and 54.9 inches for your hips, allowing three adults to sit without awkward shoulder-to-shoulder contact. The base SE and SEL models feature a bench seat that fits three, bringing the maximum Hyundai SANTE FE seating capacity to seven passengers.
Opt for the Limited or Calligraphy models, and you'll get two captain's chairs in place of the bench seat, bringing your total seating to six passengers. The trade-off is worth it, as you'll have easier third-row access and individual armrests, and youngsters will have plenty of room during long Oklahoma or Austin trips. The captain's chairs slide forward and back and can also recline.
Now for the third row, which has 37.7 inches of headroom, 30 inches of legroom, 53.5 inches across for shoulders, and 42.7 inches of hip room. Large adults won't necessarily want to ride back there, although it's fine for kids or teenagers on shorter trips. Accessing the third row is easy, thanks to the manual sliding mechanism of the second-row seats, but don't forget to slide them back into position. If you're interested in getting the new SANTA FE, contact our finance center to explore our various finance options.
Overall Interior Space Measurements
The SANTA FE balances size with maneuverability. Measuring 190.2 inches long, 74.8 inches wide, and 69.7 inches tall, it's substantial without being unwieldy. The 110.8-inch wheelbase provides interior room while keeping the turning radius manageable. Seven inches of ground clearance offers good capability while maintaining easy entry, and the 4,486-pound curb weight feels solid without creating excessive fuel consumption.
The Hyundai SANTA FE's length allows for 152 cubic feet of passenger space spread across three rows, which is a lot of room for a maneuverable midsize SUV. The interior width feels just right, as nobody's squished, but you can still reach the child in the middle seat when necessary. The first two rows are perfectly comfortable, while the third row is fine for shorter trips, but it's not where you want to spend a 14-hour journey.
Both gas and hybrid models give you identical people space, so your powertrain choice comes down to factors such as fuel economy and driving feel. The trim level you choose affects your experience; for example, the SE keeps things simple with breathable cloth seats and a 60/40-split bench seat in the second row. Upgrade to the Limited, and you're sitting on leather with second-row heated captain's chairs and ventilated front seats.
Splurge on the Calligraphy, and you'll experience the feel of a luxury SUV. The quilted leather seats, suede ceiling cover, and power-adjustable middle-row seats might make your passengers think you spent way more than you did. The interior materials are durable enough to weather the wear and tear of kids, dogs, and the inevitable fast-food spills during soccer tournament weekends and Dallas-Fort Worth trips.
Experience the Spacious 2026 SANTA FE Today
The 2026 SANTA FE delivers; whether you're transporting seven people or maximizing cargo space, it adapts quickly without complicated mechanisms. The only way to tell if the SANTA FE lives up to the hype is to see for yourself how it could fit your family's daily lifestyle in Plano. Visit our Huffines Hyundai Plano dealership or contact us to book a test-drive. Bring your kids, your stroller, and anything else you struggle to fit in your current car. Our knowledgeable team will assist you without undue sales pressure.
