Best Large SUV Under $100K: Hyundai Santa Fe Takes the Win
Before it went on to be crowned overall winner, the Hyundai Santa Fe first had to conquer one of the toughest segments in the market — Best Large SUV Starting Under $100,000 at the 2026 CarsGuide Car of the Year Awards.
This category brought together an incredibly diverse mix of vehicles, from cutting-edge electric SUVs to legendary off-road icons. After intense judging, it came down to three finalists:
- Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series
- Kia EV9
- Hyundai Santa Fe
And when the dust settled, it was Hyundai’s bold, family-focused SUV that came out on top.
A Battle of Three Heavyweights
The large SUV segment under $100K is one of the most competitive in Australia, blending family practicality with serious capability.
CarsGuide’s shortlist featured models from Chery, Hyundai, Kia, Land Rover, Polestar, Skoda, Toyota and Volkswagen — proof of just how hard-fought this category was.
After extensive testing, the judges named the Kia EV9 and Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series as runners-up, with the Hyundai Santa Fe taking the win.
Runners-Up: Strong Contenders
Kia EV9
The fully electric Kia EV9 impressed judges with its futuristic design, spacious seven-seat layout and premium feel. As one of the first electric SUVs of its size in Australia, it was praised for innovation and presence — though its higher pricing proved a sticking point for some buyers.
Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series
An icon of Australian motoring, the LandCruiser 300 Series earned recognition for its legendary durability, off-road capability and strong resale value. It “does exactly what it says on the box,” according to the CarsGuide team — a go-anywhere SUV built to last.
Winner: Hyundai Santa Fe
Despite being the boldest redesign in the model’s history, the new-generation Hyundai Santa Fe won over the CarsGuide judges where it mattered most — comfort, practicality, value and everyday usability.
While its boxy, confident exterior design divided opinion, there was no debate about its capability as a family SUV.
“It genuinely achieves everything it sets out to do,” said CarsGuide Deputy News Editor Tom White. “I also love the design of it – it’s superb.”
Why the Santa Fe Took the Title
The Santa Fe impressed across the board with:
- Choice of petrol and hybrid powertrains
- Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive availability
- Six- or seven-seat configurations
- Easy, comfortable driving in city and long-distance conditions
- Outstanding interior space and family-friendly practicality
- Extensive standard features at an accessible price point
Judges highlighted that the Santa Fe delivers premium comfort and technology without pushing beyond the $100K mark — making it one of the strongest value propositions in the large SUV market.
A Category Win That Led to Overall Glory
Winning Best Large SUV Under $100K was just the beginning for the Hyundai Santa Fe. This category victory laid the foundation for its eventual triumph as CarsGuide’s 2026 Overall Car of the Year, cementing its position as one of the best all-round vehicles available in Australia today.
Discover the Award-Winning Santa Fe at Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee
If you’re searching for a large SUV that delivers space, comfort, efficiency and genuine value, the award-winning Hyundai Santa Fe deserves a place at the top of your list.
Visit Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee to explore the Santa Fe range and experience for yourself why it beat both electric innovators and off-road legends to take out CarsGuide’s top honour.