Hyundai Santa Fe vs BMW X Models
What's the difference?

Hyundai Santa Fe

$45,950 - $88,777

2025 price

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BMW X Models

$63,400 - $254,300

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Land Rover Discovery Sport

Mercedes-Benz EQ-Class

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz G63

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Mini Countryman

Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi Pajero

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Renault Megane E-Tech

Renault Scenic E-Tech

Summary

2025 Hyundai Santa Fe

2026 BMW X Models

By Emily Agar

By Chris Thompson

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 2.5L

Electric motor type

—

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded/Electric

Vehicle type

—

Fuel Efficiency

9.3L/100km (combined)

Electric range

—

Energy consumption

—

Battery capacity

—

Seating

Likes

Superb storage in cabin
Forgiving to drive for most driver types
Passenger comfort in all three rows

Smooth ride, steering acceleration
Premium look and feel
Value for power and range

Dislikes

Not as efficient as hybrid siblings
Exterior design won't land with everyone
Basic warranty terms on offer

Huge battery should mean more range
Lack of physical controls
No cover on sunroof

2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Summary

A big welcome to one of the first turbo-petrol four-cylinder versions of the new-generation Hyundai Santa Fe, a model that launched locally with only its hybrid variants available to our market.

While it might not satisfy the fans of the previous-gen's V6 petrol engine, it might be enough for those who have been on the fence about going the hybrid route.

This is my third time in the new Santa Fe, and each tested variant has managed to offer something different and the base petrol grade, in FWD, is no different – but does it offer enough?

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2026 BMW X Models Summary

When the BMW iX first showed up a few years ago, it was a promising look at what BMW seemed capable of when it comes to electric cars.

While mildly flawed, the iX was fast, comfortable and felt properly premium. Now it’s had a decent update, with the iX xDrive45 M Sport here to replace the former entry-level xDrive 40.

BMW claims among other mechanical and tech updates a power increase of 25 per cent, a 30 per cent greater energy content for the battery, a 38 per cent increase in driving range and a 17 per cent faster charging rate.

But in the time since the iX launched, there have been big strides in the premium electric SUV space, including new arrivals from European opposition like the Polestar 3; even a new American in the form of the Cadillac Lyriq.

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Deep dive comparison

2025 Hyundai Santa Fe 2026 BMW X Models

Verdict

So I asked at the beginning if the Hyundai Santa Fe FWD petrol offered enough for families looking for a large seven-seat SUV and the answer is: YES!

It's practical, has people-mover space and storage and is downright comfortable to drive. There's so much to like here.

Verdict

If anyone was worried that it would be too late to get a decent bit of value out of an entry-level iX, there's reassuring news.

With more power, range and features added to the model and the cost remaining close to its former sticker price, the iX has held up well despite now existing in a more competitive environment.

Hyundai Santa Fe vs BMW X Models What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Hyundai Santa Fe vs BMW X Models
What's the difference?