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Blog / 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe

Hyundai SUV Rockville, MD: Tucson vs. Santa Fe: Which One Fits Your Life?

A man stands outside a Hyundai Tucson with the back door open, showcasing a spacious interior with light-colored seats.

Two Great SUVs, One Important Decision

Shopping for a Hyundai SUV at our Rockville Hyundai dealership means having impressive options to choose from. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe share quality engineering while serving distinct driving needs. Contact our sales team today to learn how each model matches your daily lifestyle.

Size and Space

Comparing the Hyundai Tucson vs. Santa Fe starts with interior space. The Tucson is a compact SUV tailored for individuals, couples, and small families navigating tighter parking. The Santa Fe offers a three-row midsize platform with extra passenger capacity and cargo volume for larger crews or gear-heavy road trips.

Powertrain Options

The Tucson offers standard gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid configurations. The plug-in hybrid option reduces daily fuel use with electric range before switching to hybrid operation. The Santa Fe comes in gas and hybrid variants, delivering ample power alongside solid efficiency for Rockville commutes.

Features and Technology

Both models feature touchscreen displays, Apple CarPlay©, Android Auto©, and driver-assistance packages. Higher trims add 12.3" dual panoramic displays and premium audio systems. The Santa Fe provides an upscale interior aesthetic, while the Tucson maximizes standard cabin convenience.

Safety and Peace of Mind

Every new Hyundai SUV includes standard Hyundai SmartSense features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist. New models come backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and five years of 24/7 roadside assistance.

Schedule Your Test Drive Today

Deciding between the compact Tucson and midsize Santa Fe comes down to your space requirements and driving preferences. Visit our Rockville Hyundai dealership to test drive both SUVs and speak with our specialists.

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An interior view of a spacious Hyundai Santa Fe with white leather seats and a folded rear seat, showing a woman organizing items in the back.

2026 Hyundai Tucson or Santa Fe? Two SUVs, Two Very Different Jobs

The 2026 Hyundai Tucson and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe might wear the same badge, but they approach family life from different directions. One is compact, efficient, and perfectly suited to daily life. The other brings more passenger space, stronger towing capability, and a third row that's ready when life gets busier in Rockville. They're both well equipped, they're both packed with useful technology, and they'll both handle the school run just fine. The question is how much space you need when Monday turns into Saturday. more The Tucson Keeps Things Simple The 2026 Tucson has become one of Hyundai's most popular SUVs because it gets the fundamentals right. It's easy to place on the road, simple to park, and large enough inside that it rarely feels like a compromise. A 2.5L 4-cylinder engine produces 187 hp and 178 lbs. ft. of torque through an 8-speed automatic transmission. FWD comes standard, while available HTRAC AWD adds extra confidence when the weather turns. Drivers looking to stretch every tank of fuel can also choose the Tucson Hybrid, which delivers a combined 231 hp and up to an EPA-estimated 38 MPG combined, or the Tucson Plug-in Hybrid, producing a combined 268 hp with up to an EPA-estimated 33 miles of all-electric driving before the gasoline engine joins in. Inside, there's seating for 5, 38.7 cu. ft. of cargo space behind the rear seats, and up to 80.3 cu. ft. with the second row folded. Rear passengers also benefit from 38.7 inches of legroom, giving the cabin a more spacious feel than many compact SUVs. Available features include dual 12.3-inch displays, wireless Apple CarPlay®, wireless Android Auto™, Hyundai Digital Key 2, Bose® premium audio, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Surround View Monitor, a hands-free smart liftgate, and Remote Smart Parking Assist. The Santa Fe Brings More Flexibility If your weekends involve extra passengers, sports equipment, or family holidays, the 2026 Santa Fe starts to make a strong case for itself. Every 2026 Santa Fe includes three rows, with seating for up to 7 passengers depending on configuration. The standard powertrain is a Turbocharged 2.5L 4-cylinder producing 277 hp and 311 lbs. ft. of torque through an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, with available HTRAC AWD. Drivers wanting better fuel economy can opt for the Santa Fe Hybrid, which combines a Turbocharged 1.6L engine and electric motor for a combined 231 hp while returning up to an EPA-estimated 36 MPG combined with FWD. When properly equipped with the Turbocharged engine, the Santa Fe can tow up to 4,500 lbs., making it well suited to small campers, utility trailers, and boats. Cargo space grows with your needs, offering 14.6 cu. ft. behind the third row, 40.5 cu. ft. behind the second row, and up to 79.6 cu. ft. with both rear rows folded. Its upright shape also makes loading bulky items noticeably easier than many SUVs with a more heavily sloped rear design. Technology That Fits Around You Both models feature Hyundai SmartSense driver-assistance technologies, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Highway Driving Assist, Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, Safe Exit Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and available Surround View Monitor. They also support Hyundai Pay, allowing drivers to pay for compatible parking and other services directly through the infotainment system. Which One Makes More Sense? The Tucson is the SUV that quietly gets on with daily life. It offers generous passenger space, excellent fuel economy, and the flexibility most households need without taking up unnecessary room on the road. The Santa Fe steps in when family life becomes more demanding. A third row, stronger towing capability, and a larger cargo area make it the better choice for drivers who regularly travel with people, luggage, or both. If you're comparing additional models, exploring the new Hyundai lineup or taking a closer look at Tucson and Santa Fe trim levels can help narrow your search. Compare the Tucson and Santa Fe in Rockville, MD The Tucson and Santa Fe are built around different priorities, yet both deliver the technology, comfort, and capability that have made Hyundai's SUV lineup so popular. Visit Fitzgerald Hyundai Rockville to compare both models in person, explore available trims, or schedule a test drive online now to discover which Hyundai SUV is the better fit for your family.

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The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe: A 3-Row SUV Built for Adventure

Packed with features and attitude, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe arrives in Rockville, Maryland with distinctive presence and the capability to back up its confidence. Beyond this 3-row SUV’s striking design, you’ll find innovative technology, a versatile, luxurious interior, and features that cater to families and adventurers alike. Whether you're bustling the kids to a hundred different activities or taking off on a weekend getaway, the Santa Fe offers the perfect blend of style and functionality. more Spacious and Comfortable: A 3-Row SUV That Delivers One of the standout features of the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is its spacious interior. This 3-row SUV comfortably seats up to 7 passengers, making it an ideal choice for larger families or those who frequently carpool. The available power-reclining 2 nd -row captain’s chairs are complemented by features like the dual wireless phone chargers and front-and-back opening center console, catering to every passenger onboard. With Nappa leather seating surfaces on the Calligraphy trim and details in every inch, this interior is built for taking the long way home. Cargo space is another strong suit for the Santa Fe. With up to 79.6 cu. ft. of storage behind the 1 st row, this SUV is ready to handle everything from groceries to camping gear. The hands-free smart liftgate makes bustling around with hands full much easier. Advanced Technology for a Connected Drive The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is packed with cutting-edge technology designed to keep you connected and safe. The standard 12.3” touchscreen display can be paired with a 12.3” digital instrument cluster for one seamless panoramic view. Wireless integration with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ lets you access your apps, playlists, navigation, and more, while the available Bluelink+ system lets you control various vehicle functions remotely through your smartphone. It’s an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for plenty of reasons. Its Hyundai SmartSense® suite includes features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Lane Keeping Assist as standard to guide you and step in when you need it most. Higher trims add even more advanced systems, such as the Blind-Spot View Monitor and Remote Smart Parking Assist, taking all the guesswork out of challenging situations. Performance That Inspires Confidence The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is powered by a robust 2.5L turbocharged engine delivering up to 277 hp. For those seeking even greater efficiency, the hybrid variant offers an impressive EPA-estimated combined 36 MPG without compromising on performance. The Santa Fe's towing capacity is equally impressive, with the unapologetically rugged XRT trim capable of hauling up to 4,500 lbs. when properly equipped. Whether you're towing a trailer or simply enjoying a spirited drive, this SUV is built to perform. Visit Fitzgerald Hyundai Rockville Today Ready to experience the 2026 Santa Fe for yourself? Visit Fitzgerald Hyundai Rockville to explore this exceptional 3-row SUV in person. Our team is here to help you find the perfect trim and features to match your lifestyle.

A blue Hyundai car parked on a beach with the ocean in the background during sunset.

Why Drivers in Rockville, MD Choose Their Local Hyundai Dealer for Their Next Vehicle

If you're searching for a new Hyundai dealer around Rockville, MD, you're probably looking for more than just a good selection of vehicles. You want a buying experience that feels easy, a brand that backs its products with strong coverage, and a lineup that fits your lifestyle. Here's a closer look at what makes Fitzgerald Hyundai Rockville worth your time. more A Lineup Built for Every Kind of Driver Whether you're taking the kids to school or heading out on weekend adventures, there's a new Hyundai at Fitzgerald Hyundai Rockville that fits the bill. The 2026 Tucson and Santa Fe are popular choices for families who want comfort, smart technology, and capable performance in an SUV package. If you need more space, the 2027 Palisade offers three rows of seating and available HTRAC all-wheel drive. Looking to go electric? The 2026 IONIQ 5 and the all-new 2026 IONIQ 9 bring impressive range and modern design to drivers ready to make the switch. With so many options available, finding the right fit doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Warranty and Owner Benefits That Set Hyundai Apart One of the biggest reasons drivers come to Fitzgerald Hyundai Rockville is Hyundai’s reputation for owner support. Every new Hyundai comes with America's Best Warranty, which includes coverage for up to 10 years or 100,000 miles. Beyond the warranty, owners benefit from 24/7 roadside assistance for five years with no mileage cap. The Bluelink+ connected car service lets you remotely start your vehicle, adjust climate control, and lock or unlock doors - all at no extra cost. A Buying Experience Designed Around You Shopping for a new Hyundai at Fitzgerald Hyundai Rockville has gotten a lot easier thanks to the Hyundai Shopper Assurance program. Transparent online pricing means you can compare options before you ever set foot in the showroom. You can schedule a test drive at your convenience - or have the vehicle brought to you. If you're ready to move forward, Hyundai Click to Buy lets you handle financing, trade-in estimates, and payment calculations entirely online. And if you change your mind after purchase, the 3-day worry-free exchange gives you a safety net. Service and Maintenance That Keeps You Moving Owning a vehicle is a long-term commitment, and Fitzgerald Hyundai Rockville is set up to support you well beyond the sale. Car Care Express makes routine maintenance - like oil changes - fast and convenient so you can get back to your day without a long wait. For electric vehicle owners, certified IONIQ dealers like Fitzgerald Hyundai Rockville are equipped to handle sales, service, and maintenance on models like the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6. Giving Back to the Community Hyundai's commitment goes beyond vehicles. Through Hyundai Hope on Wheels, every new Hyundai purchase results in a $22 donation to pediatric cancer research. With over $303 million donated over 28 years, this program has made an impact on families across the country - including right here in Rockville, MD. Find Your Next Vehicle at Fitzgerald Hyundai Rockville in Rockville, MD From an award-winning SUV lineup to industry-leading warranty coverage and a simplified buying process, there are plenty of good reasons to come to Fitzgerald Hyundai Rockville. If you're ready to explore new Hyundai models in Rockville, come in and see the team at Fitzgerald Hyundai Rockville or visit us online at fitzwayhyundai.com to browse current inventory, check available offers, and start building your next vehicle today.