Face-Off: Honda CR-V vs. Hyundai Santa Fe

These SUVs live in different categories but compete well with each other

Honda CRV and Hyundai SantaFe
The Honda CR-V takes on the Hyundai Santa Fe.
Photos: John Powers/Consumer Reports

SUV shoppers have more choices than ever before. Take, for example, the Honda CR-V and Hyundai Santa Fe. Technically, the CR-V is a compact SUV, while the Santa Fe is 6 inches longer and is considered a midsized SUV. But these two models overlap because the CR-V is among the larger, roomier models in its class and the Santa Fe has a low starting price.

These two SUVs each have room for five adults, are available with either a turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a gas-electric hybrid powertrain, and front- or all-wheel drive. Each of them also comes with a number of standard advanced safety systems.

Both have agile handling, thanks to their responsive steering and restrained body lean. They’re maneuverable and nimble to drive, but neither will be confused with the sportier Ford Edge or the Mazda CX-5.

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However, there’s more to the Honda and Hyundai than specs. This is why we look at other key factors: Which one has more comprehensive safety features? Which gets better fuel economy? Is one quicker than the other? Are there differences in how easy it is to use the controls?

To answer those questions, we take an in-depth look at these two SUVs to compare how they fare in CR’s testing and surveys. And then we let you know which one is tops.

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