2026 CarExpert Choice winner: Best Affordable Large SUV

The Hyundai Santa Fe has been named Australia’s best affordable large SUV by CarExpert for the second year in a row in the 2026 CarExpert Choice Awards.

It beat out the related Kia Sorento, as well as the recently redesigned Skoda Kodiaq, both of which have been named finalists.

The Santa Fe continues to impress with a cabin that offers plenty of space in all three rows, enabled by its boxy body.

Despite its large dimensions, the Santa Fe is easy to drive and offers a comfortable ride.

There’s a choice of front- or all-wheel drive and either a punchy turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine or a thrifty 1.6-litre four-cylinder hybrid.

Even the base Santa Fe offers a long list of standard equipment, including a comprehensive suite of safety technology. You can also step up to posher Elite and Calligraphy trims.

Spacious, practical and comfortable, and backed by a solid aftersales offering, the Hyundai Santa Fe is an exceptional choice for families in the market for a large three-row SUV.

2026 CarExpert Choice – Best Affordable Large SUV

• Winner – Hyundai Santa Fe
• Finalist – Kia Sorento
• Finalist – Skoda Kodiaq

To see all the CarExpert Choice winners, click here.

MORE: Explore the Hyundai Santa Fe showroom