New Nissan X-Trail vs Hyundai Santa Fe: verdict
With hybrid power and seating for seven, these family-friendly SUVs both marry practicality and efficiency. But which of them does it better?...
Our verdict
Choosing a winner here is a very close call, but the Santa Fe gets the nod. It’s simply better at the job of being a seven-seat SUV, with more space for passengers and their luggage, and its thoughtful little touches make life a little easier.
As for the X-Trail, its e-Power hybrid system doesn’t bring miraculous fuel economy, but its smooth driving manners feel more like a stepping stone to electric motoring than the Santa Fe does. It’s still a good choice if third-row space isn’t a priority, then, but if that’s the case, you could save money by opting for the five-seat version. This is offered with the less powerful, two-wheel-drive version of the hybrid system, or with mild hybrid petrol power for even less.
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here
1st – Hyunda Santa Fe
For Far more space for seven; bigger boot; more reassuring brakes
Against Not particularly economical; cheaper versions make more sense; expensive on PCP
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Read our full Hyundai Santa Fe review >>
Find Hyundai Santa Fe deals >>
2nd – Nissan X-Trail
For Smooth power delivery; more effortless to drive; costs less to buy and run
Against Cramped third-row seats are only for short journeys; doesn’t feel quite as robust
Recommended options Premium Bose Pack (£590)
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Read our full Nissan X-Trail review >>
Find Nissan X-Trail deals >>
Specifications: Nissan X-Trail 1.5 e-Power 213 e-4orce Tekna 7 Seat
Engine 3cyl, 1498cc, turbo, petrol, plus two electric motors
Peak power 211bhp at 4600rpm
Peak torque 243+144lb ft at 2400-4400 rpm
Gearbox 1-spd automatic
0-60mph 6.9sec
30-70mph 6.2sec
Top speed 111mph
30-0mph 9.9m
70-0mph 53.8m
Noise at 30mph 58.6dB
Noise at 70mph 65.8dB
Kerb weight 1833kg
Tyres (std) 235/55 R19
Fuel tank 55 litres
Test economy 36.7mpg
Official economy 44.1mpg
CO2 emissions 148g/km
Specifications: Hyundai Santa Fe 1.6 T-GDi HEV 4WD Ultimate
Engine 4cyl, 1598cc, turbo, petrol, plus electric motor
Peak power 227bhp at 5500rpm
Peak torque 258lb ft at 1500-4500rpm
Gearbox 6-spd automatic
0-60mph 8.3sec
30-70mph 7.5sec
Top speed 116mph
30-0mph 9.2m
70-0mph 46.1m
Noise at 30mph 58dB
Noise at 70mph 64.3dB
Kerb weight 1842kg
Tyres (std) 235/55 R19
Fuel tank 67 litres
Test economy 32.9mpg
Official economy 38.2mpg
CO2 emissions 168g/km
Weather conditions Dry
Cars pictured
Nissan X-Trail 1.5 e-Power 213 e-4orce Tekna 7 Seat with two-tone metallic Champagne Silver paint and black roof (£1095), black synthetic leather and Premium Bose Pack (£590)
Hyundai Santa Fe 1.6 T-GDi HEV 4WD Ultimate with Lagoon Blue metallic paint (£690)
Best 7-seat cars 2024 – and the ones to avoid
Whether you want a part-time seven-seater or one to carry lots of people every day, this run-down of the best seven-seat cars will help you pick the right model for your family
