2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
Automakers constantly shuffle their lineups to balance practicality, style, and performance in the ever-evolving American compact SUV market.
After a brief hiatus, the rumour mill is churning with compelling whispers of a triumphant return: the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport.
While the current-generation Santa Fe has embraced a bold, boxy, and efficient three-row design, it has left a gap for those who loved the nameplate but crave a more dynamic, driver-focused experience.
The new Santa Fe Sport isn’t just a trim package; our sources suggest it’s being reborn as a distinct, five-seat model poised to challenge the segment’s sportiest contenders.
This isn’t just a rehash of an old idea. This is Hyundai aiming directly at the heart of the enthusiast driver who needs the utility of a crossover.
Let’s unpack everything we anticipate from what could be one of the most exciting new Hyundai SUV models in years.
What’s New for 2027?
Everything. The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is slated to be an all-new model, sharing a platform with the larger Santa Fe but with a completely different mission.
Expect a shorter wheelbase, a lower roofline, and a more aggressive stance. Where the standard Santa Fe prioritises cavernous cargo space and passenger volume, the Sport will focus on a taut, athletic aesthetic.
We anticipate a front fascia with a more menacing grille and lighting signature, sculpted body lines emphasising motion, and a tapered rear end with dual exhaust finishers that mean business.
This Hyundai SUV is designed to turn heads in the parking lot and carve corners on a weekend getaway.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
While official numbers are still under lock and key, we can project a pricing structure that positions the 2027 Santa Fe Sport competitively. We expect it to start slightly above the Tucson but well below the premium-focused Santa Fe.
- SE: Estimated at $34,000
- SEL: Estimated at $36,500
- XRT: Estimated at $40,000
- N Line: Estimated at $44,000
The sweet spot will likely be the SEL trim with the optional Convenience Package for our money. This combination typically bundles high-value features like a larger infotainment screen, a hands-free power liftgate, and enhanced driver-assistance features without breaking the bank.
However, for those seeking the ultimate expression of this model’s intent, the N Line will be the one to get. It promises a more powerful engine option, a sport-tuned suspension, larger wheels, and unique design cues to set it apart as a genuine performance SUV.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
This is where the “Sport” badge must earn its stripes. We foresee two compelling powertrain options for the new Santa Fe Sport.
The standard engine is likely a potent turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder, similar to the one in the Sonata N Line.
Expect it to produce a healthy 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, routing power through a quick-shifting 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Front-wheel drive will be standard, and Hyundai’s excellent HTRAC all-wheel drive (AWD) will be an option.
However, the headline-grabber will likely be an advanced plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain reserved for the top-tier trims.
This system would combine a 1.6-liter turbo-four with a more powerful electric motor and a larger battery pack.
The goal? A combined output north of 320 horsepower, instantaneous electric torque for thrilling acceleration, and a meaningful all-electric driving range of around 35 miles. This would make the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport not just quick, but also incredibly efficient.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
For the standard 2.5T powertrain, we project EPA estimates for FWD models to hover around 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, with AWD versions seeing a slight dip.
The real star will be the PHEV variant, which should boast an impressive MPGe rating well over 75 when combining gas and electric power, making it a robust yet prudent choice.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the 2027 Santa Fe Sport will pivot from a family lounge to a driver-focused command center. While it will still be a comfortable five-seater with ample rear legroom, the emphasis will be on the front occupants.
A sculpted dashboard will wrap around the driver, featuring high-quality materials and sporty accents like contrast stitching and available flat-bottom steering wheels on the N Line trim.
The centerpiece will undoubtedly be Hyundai’s latest infotainment system, likely a panoramic curved display integrating two 12.3-inch screens for the digital gauge cluster and central touchscreen.
Despite its sporty focus, practicality won’t be forgotten. We expect clever storage solutions and a generous cargo area behind the second row, making it more than capable of being used for weekend adventures or trips to the hardware store.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Hyundai continues to lead the pack in user-friendly technology. The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport will come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB-C ports, and a wireless charging pad.
An available premium Bose audio system will provide an immersive sound experience. We also anticipate the latest version of Hyundai’s Blue Link connected car services, which will allow for remote start, climate control, and vehicle status checks from your smartphone.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Safety remains a top priority. Every 2027 Santa Fe Sport will come equipped with the comprehensive Hyundai SmartSense suite of safety technologies.
This includes standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist.
We also expect higher trims to feature the next generation of Highway Driving Assist, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane-centering for a remarkably refined semi-autonomous driving experience.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
This is Hyundai’s ace in the hole. The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport will be backed by America’s Best Warranty, a package that remains a benchmark in the industry.
- Limited warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles
This outstanding coverage provides peace of mind that competitors can’t match.
The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is shaping to be more than just a name revival; it’s a strategic move to capture a growing segment of buyers who refuse to sacrifice driving pleasure for practicality.
By blending aggressive styling, potent turbocharged and hybrid SUV options, and a tech-forward interior, Hyundai is crafting a compelling alternative to rivals like the Ford Edge, Chevrolet Blazer, and even more premium offerings.
If Hyundai delivers on this promise, the new Santa Fe Sport won’t just be rejoining the lineup—it will be redefining it.
