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Hyundai Santa Fe vs Ford Explorer – Built for Montana Roads
Montana drivers demand capability, comfort, and confidence through Kalispell winters, Missoula commutes, and weekend trips to Glacier National Park. The Hyundai Santa Fe and Ford Explorer are two popular choices, but the Santa Fe stands out with a more substantial value, better efficiency, a more modern interior, and Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty. Below, we compare both SUVs to help you choose the right one for Montana roads.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Hyundai Santa Fe | Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP† | $33,950 | $36,860 |
| Engine Options | 2.5L I4 (191 hp) • 2.5L Turbo (277 hp) • Hybrid available | 2.3L Turbo (300 hp) • 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 (400 hp) • Hybrid available (Limited/Platinum) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic / 6-speed (Hybrid) | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or available H-TRAC AWD w/ Multi-Terrain Modes | RWD or available Intelligent 4WD w/ Terrain Management System |
| Max Cargo Volume | Up to 79.6 cu. ft. | 87.8 cu. ft. |
| Passenger Volume | 111.4 cu. ft. | 152.7 cu. ft. (3-row) |
| Towing Capacity (max) | Up to 3,500 lbs. | Up to 5,600 lbs. (properly equipped) |
| Touchscreen | 12.3" infotainment + digital cluster | 10.1" vertical touchscreen + 12.3" cluster available |
| Warranty | 10yr/100k mi Powertrain (America’s Best Warranty™) | 5yr/60k mi Powertrain |
†MSRP excludes destination charges, taxes, title, license, options, and dealer fees. Verify pricing with Clark Hyundai.
Performance & Capability Built for Montana Terrain
The Santa Fe offers multiple powertrain choices: a standard 191-hp I4, a 277-hp turbo, or a hybrid, delivering smooth, confident power across Kalispell’s hills and icy roads. The Ford Explorer offers higher horsepower, but its large platform and higher price make it less efficient and less maneuverable for everyday driving in Montana.
Santa Fe’s H-TRAC AWD includes selectable SNOW, MUD, and SAND modes, letting you adapt to changing weather conditions quickly and safely. Explorer’s Terrain Management is strong but varies by trim and doesn’t offer the same intuitive, driver-friendly interface.
Hybrid Performance Advantage
Hyundai takes efficiency seriously. The available Santa Fe Hybrid delivers 226 horsepower and excellent combined MPG—ideal for long drives between Missoula and Kalispell. While the Ford Explorer also offers a hybrid option, it is limited to specific high-end trims, making the Santa Fe Hybrid a more accessible and budget-friendly choice.
Interior Comfort & Cargo Versatility
Santa Fe’s interior feels premium, modern, and designed with families in mind, with up to 79.6 cu. ft. Featuring a generous cargo space, available heated/ventilated seats, and a spacious second row, it fits Montana lifestyles perfectly. The Explorer offers more total cargo space due to its third row. Still, the Santa Fe delivers superior comfort, a quieter ride quality, and easier access to cargo for everyday use.
Technology & Connectivity
Santa Fe offers an advanced digital experience:
- 12.3" touchscreen w/ navigation
- Digital instrument cluster
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™
- Bose® premium audio
- Bluelink® Connected Services
- Digital Key 2 Touch
Explorer also includes modern technology, although several features are only available on higher trims. Santa Fe delivers more value by offering advanced features without the premium Ford price tag.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Hyundai SmartSense is standard on every Santa Fe and includes:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping & Lane Following Assist
- Blind-Spot View Monitor
- Smart Cruise Control w/ Stop & Go
- Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist
Ford Co-Pilot360™ is competitive but requires trim upgrades for features that the Santa Fe includes at no extra charge.
Warranty & Ownership Value
Hyundai’s 10-Year / 100,000-Mile Powertrain Warranty doubles Ford’s coverage—one of the most significant long-term value advantages for Montana families. Add 5-year roadside assistance and complimentary maintenance on newer models, and the Santa Fe becomes a top pick for long-term ownership.
Video by MotorNation is not sponsored by Clark Hyundai or Hyundai Motor Company.
The Final Verdict: Santa Fe Delivers More for Montana Drivers
The Ford Explorer remains a strong option for power and towing. Still, the Hyundai Santa Fe offers more value, better efficiency, superior winter-ready drive modes, advanced tech, and Hyundai’s unbeatable warranty. For drivers navigating Kalispell winters, Missoula commutes, and Flathead Valley adventures, Santa Fe is the smarter, more versatile choice.
Ready to compare in person?
Visit Clark Hyundai in Kalispell for transparent pricing, non-commissioned advisors, and our Best Price Promise.
