Hyundai SANTA FE named Best Large SUV at RAC New Car Awards 2026

The Hyundai SANTA FE has been named Best Large SUV at the inaugural RAC New Car Awards 2026. The award recognises the best models available to UK car buyers across nine market segments. Each shortlisted vehicle was tested and assessed by the RAC’s in-house editorial team – which brings together more than 35 years of combined automotive experience – against its direct rivals.

Vehicles were scored out of ten across seven key criteria: value, running costs, safety, practicality, ride and handling, interior and technology, and performance. The RAC’s judges agreed that the SANTA FE was the best in the Large SUV category, offering the best mix of all the criteria compared with competitors like the Land Rover Defender or Peugeot 5008.

Now in its fifth generation, the SANTA FE is offered in the UK with Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid powertrains, priced from £49,140 and £53,200 respectively across Premium, Ultimate and Calligraphy trims. Most versions seat seven, with the range-topping Calligraphy offered as a six-seater, while a 725-litre boot and Hyundai’s Five Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty add to its family-SUV appeal.

RAC Drive Editor, Dan Powell said: “The Hyundai Santa Fe passes the large SUV test with flying colours. Beneath its distinctive styling lies plenty of substance, with space for up to seven adults and excellent refinement, comfort and build quality. It's great to drive, too, while efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, backed by Hyundai's long warranty, should keep running costs low.

Ashley Andrew, President of Hyundai & Genesis UK, said: “Engineering a car to excel in one area is relatively straightforward; creating one that performs strongly across the RAC’s broad range of criteria is far more complex. This award, combined with the SANTA FE’s popularity in the UK, demonstrates the strength of its all-round appeal.”