The Most Affordable Hybrid SUV With a Standard Third-Row of Seats

If you’re looking for an affordable crossover that is going to be easy on your bank account in the long run, then hybrids are the way to go. There are also some exceptionally affordable hybrid crossovers that come standard with a third row of seats, meaning you can haul the whole family around.

Three-row hybrid crossovers are some of the most versatile vehicles on the market. Not only do they offer spacious interiors with room for up to eight passengers, but they also keep your gas costs low. There is one model that stands out by offering great value and costing less than any other three-row hybrid.

We dive into just how much more affordable this three-row hybrid is compared to its competitors and which trim will offer you the best value for money. We also look at how practical the crossover is, exploring interior dimensions and how large the third row of seats is. Finally, we outline how efficient its hybrid powertrain is, showcasing is exceptional economy.

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The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Starts At $37,800

The Santa Fe underwent quite a dramatic redesign for the 2024 model year. Now in its sophomore year, it continues to prove that it is one of the best value for money three-row crossovers that you can buy. The hybrid model is even more practical, with a fuel sipping powertrain that will save you money.

2025 Trims and Pricing

The Santa Fe Hybrid enters the 2025 model year without any significant changes. The only addition is a new paint option you can select, Atlantis Blue. Starting under $38,000, though, the Santa Fe is easily the most affordable three-row hybrid crossover that is currently on the market.

There are fewer trims to choose from on the hybrid model compared to the gas-only model. The SEL is the most affordable option and also offers the best balance between price and features. If you’re looking for a higher level of luxury, the Limited and Calligraphy models tack on a number of high-end features.

Pricing of Competitors

There are a number of other three-row hybrids available right now, but none of them are as affordable as the Santa Fe. The option that comes closest is the Sorento Hybrid, coming from Hyundai’s Cousin, Kia. The Grand Highlander hybrid is the next most affordable option, followed by the regular Highlander. If you’re looking for a plug-in hybrid, then Mitsubishi offers the Outlander.

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All Three Rows Are Surprisingly Spacious in the Santa Fe

Interior shot of a 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe

For large and growing families, a third row is an invaluable feature in a crossover. However, there is no point in a third row if it’s tiny and cramped. The Santa Fe Hybrid features a ton of space on the inside, more than you’d expect from a vehicle at this price point, and a third-row that comfortably fits any passenger.

Interior Dimensions

We’re not claiming that the interior of the Santa Fe is as cavernous as full-size options, but for this price point it is impressively versatile. Those in the first two rows have tons of room to stretch their legs and you could easily fit the kids in the way-back for extended periods of time and have some space in the trunk to spare.

With all three seats up you have a bit of cargo space to work with. When you’re not hauling the whole family, you can stow the third row of seats away and extend the cargo space up to 40.5 cubic feet. If you have something extra large you need to move, the Santa Fe can offer up a maximum of 79.6 cubic feet of space with the third and second row of seats tucked away.

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There Is a High Ceiling For Comfort In The Santa Fe Hybrid

Interior shot of the second-row captain’s chairs in a 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe

The Santa Fe Hybrid comes loaded with features, with Hyundai clearly prioritizing value above all else. Not only is the most affordable model extremely comfortable, but climb the trim ladder and it can be downright luxurious. Regardless, its cabin is guaranteed to impress you.

Design and Comfort

The Santa Fe’s new design follows the grander ideology at play throughout the entire Hyundai lineup. It mixes modern elements and features, such as large screens, with more retro elements. The brand also makes sure to include plenty of physical button and knobs so that you aren’t so reliant on the touchscreen.

Even the most affordable model comes with H-Tex upholstery, which is a leather substitute. Higher trims can be equipped with Nappa leather. Power-adjustable front seats are standard along with heating for the driver. You can also optionally swap out the second row bench for captain’s chairs, allowing for a higher level of comfort for passengers.

Infotainment and Technology

The Santa Fe Hybrid comes standard with a curved 12.3-inch infotainment screen that shares a bezel with the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. The cluster is customizable, and your settings can be saved to your individual profile. Wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay is standard. A separate 6.6-inch screen sits on the center console and displays your climate control settings.

Additional features include two wireless smartphone charging pads for both front passengers. Those in the back have access to plenty of USB-C ports though. Hyundai has also included a UV-C sterilization tray in the front to disinfect any small items. A premium Bose audio system is available on higher trims.

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You’ll Save Money On Gas Thanks To The Hybrid Four-Cylinder

Rear 3/4 shot of a 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe

One of the most important factors when buying any hybrid is how efficient its powertrain is. While not quite as powerful as the gas-only model, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid offers plenty of pep and is more than efficient enough to justify the leap in price.

Performance Specifications

The Santa Fe hybrid makes use of a small four-banger which pairs with an electric motor. The new model produces slightly more power than the outgoing generation. For most people, its acceleration is more than adequate, but it can feel a little sluggish when you’re trying to get up to highway speeds. The gas-only model goes from zero to 60 miles per hour in a fairly quick 6.3 seconds.

If towing is on your list of priorities, the Santa Fe Hybrid doesn’t offer much. Where the gas-only model is capable of pulling up to 3,500 pounds, the hybrid model is only rated to tow 2,000 pounds.

If you prioritize quiet comfort, the Santa Fe Hybrid has you covered. It offers some impressive ride quality and body roll is kept to a minimum. Hyundai has also included plenty of sound-deadening measures, meaning noise from the outside world doesn’t really permeate into the cabin.

Fuel Economy

The most efficient gas-only Santa Fe you can get only manages to achieve 24 miles per gallon combined, meaning that the hybrid model is much more efficient. It comes close to having the highest fuel cost savings. Even better is the fact that you’re not really penalized for opting for the all-wheel drive model, with its efficiency being pretty similar to the front-wheel drive model. We also like that there isn’t a huge gap between city and highway driving as you can expect your fuel economy to stay pretty consistent wherever you are.