SUV Wars: 2024 Hyundai SANTA FE vs 2024 KIA Telluride

- The refreshed 2024 Hyundai SANTA FE is finally in stock here at Safford Hyundai Fairfax, VA!
- Starting at $33,950, the 2024 SANTA FE offers a ton of value in a three-row SUV package.
- A Hybrid option will also be available later this year and is expected to deliver better fuel economy than last year’s 36 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.
If you’ve been following our blogs, you already know that the 2024 Hyundai SANTA FE outshines the competition in pretty much every way. With ample cargo space, diverse options, and cutting-edge technologies, the 2024 SANTA FE is not only techier and roomier but also redefines the 3-row mid-size SUV segment. But with excellence comes great competition, and in the 2024 Hyundai SANTA FE’s case, the competition comes from within the HMG family, the 2024 KIA Telluride. If you’re in the market for a capable, value-packed SUV, read on and learn how these two vehicles stack against each other!
Performance & Efficiency

Every gas-powered 2024 SANTA FE comes with one engine option; a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine. Delivering 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque to the front two wheels or 4, if you opt for HTRAC AWD, the SANTA FE, is ready for any outdoor adventure or commute. A hybrid engine variant will also be available in the Spring of 2024. Fuel economy of both ICE and Hybrid variants are still unconfirmed by the EPA but it’s expected to exceed numbers from 2023. For reference, the 2023 SANTA FE came with 25 mpg city /28 mpg highway in FWD and 22 mpg city / 25 mpg highway. 2023 Hybrid SANTA FEs came with standard AWD and delivered up to 36 mpg city/ 31 mpg highway.
2024 KIA Telluride: Starting at around $2,000 more than the SANTA FE, the Telluride also comes with a single engine option; a 3.8-liter V-6. Delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, the Telluride is no slouch by any means. FWD is also available as an option. In terms of fuel economy, the Telluride delivers 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway in FWD and 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway in AWD. Hybrid is not an option.
Verdict: The 2023 Hyundai SANTA FE already had better fuel economy than the 2024 KIA Telluride, but the 2024 takes it to another level with increased efficiency. When compared with the 2024 Hybrid Santa Fe, the 2024 Telluride isn’t even on the same league, let alone playing field.
Features & Tech

2024 Hyundai SANTA FE Feature & Tech Highlights:
- Auto-Open Door Liftgate: Lift the automatic liftgate and lower the seats to unlock a unique adventure experience—complete with an exclusive terrace that’s ideal for stargazing, attending major events, or enjoying your own backyard.
- Full-Display Digital RearView Mirror: Clearly see what’s behind you with the digital rearview mirror.
- Remote Smart Parking Assist: Entrust navigating tight parking spaces to the SANTA FE’s Remote Smart Parking Assist. Simply exit the vehicle, press your Smart Key button, and watch as it autonomously maneuvers into and out of the parking spot on its own.
- Big Screens: Why settle for big when you can embrace the epic? Opt for the available 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a high-resolution 12.3-inch touchscreen with optional navigation in the SANTA FE. The generously sized displays not only make maps, entertainment, and communication effortlessly visible but also visually stunning.
- Dual Wireless Device Charging: Charge two mobile devices at once with the available Dual Wireless Charging Pad.
- UV-C Sterilization Compartment: UV Lights in the compartment kill germs in a flash with this innovative available feature.
2024 KIA Telluride Feature & Tech Highlights:
- 12.3-inch Dual Panoramic Displays: Experience the available 12.3-inch Dual Panoramic Displays with navigation, providing a total combined display of over 24 inches for your entertainment, convenience, and more.
- Surround-View Monitor: The optional Surround View Monitor eliminates the guesswork in parking and low-speed maneuvering by offering an aerial view of your surroundings.
- Smart Power Tailgate: The Smart Power Tailgate automatically closes when the smart key fob is no longer detected near the vehicle.
- Digital Key: The available Digital Key enables keyless entry and allows you to virtually share your keys with family and friends through the Kia Connect app.
- Full Display Mirrors: The optional Full Display Mirror® assists in offering a view of the road behind you, even when the vehicle is filled with passengers or large objects.
Verdict: Both vehicles offer a ton of value in their standard and available features. However, the SANTA FE-specific features such as the UV-C Sterilization Compartment, HiddenC-Pillar Grab Handles, Bi-lateral Center Console, and more give the SANTA FE a futuristic and practical edge over the 2024 KIA Telluride.
Safety & Driver Assist

2024 Hyundai SANTA FE Safety & Driver-Assist Highlights:
- Highway Driving Assist (HDA)
- Highway Driving Assist II
- Remote Smart Parking Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Blind-Spot View Monitor
- Surround View Monitor
- Safe Exit Assist
- Advanced Rear Occupant Alert
2024 KIA Telluride Safety & Driver-Assist Highlights:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist Technologies
- Highway Driving Assist 2
- Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control w/ Stop & Go
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
Verdict: Both the 2024 SANTA FE and Telluride boast an extensive list of safety and driver-assist features, and when it comes down to it; are fairly equal in terms of comprehensiveness.
Concluding Thoughts
In conclusion, the 2024 Hyundai SANTA FE stands out as a superior choice in the three-row SUV market, offering a well-rounded package of performance, efficiency, features, and safety. Starting at $33,950, it provides excellent value, with the upcoming Hybrid variant expected to enhance fuel efficiency. Innovative features like the Auto-Open Door Liftgate, Full-Display Digital RearView Mirror, and Remote Smart Parking Assist also set the SANTA FE apart, showcasing Hyundai’s commitment to cutting-edge technologies.
If you’re interested in the 2024 Hyundai SANTA FE, you’re in luck as we have plenty in stock here at Safford Hyundai Fairfax, VA!