2024 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Ford Explorer: A Comprehensive Comparison

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe and Ford Explorer are popular choices among mid-size SUVs in the United States. With new features and updates, they cater to a wide range of drivers, including seniors looking for reliable and cost-effective transportation options. This article compares these two models in-depth, focusing on pricing, features, performance, and suitability for senior drivers.

Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe and Ford Explorer are two standout contenders in the mid-size SUV category. This article aims to provide a detailed comparison, helping you make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.

Hyundai Santa Fe Overview

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe is a versatile mid-size SUV that offers a blend of comfort, technology, and safety. It is designed to cater to a broad audience, including seniors who prioritize ease of use and affordability.

Key Features

  1. Comfort and Interior: The Hyundai Santa Fe features a spacious and well-designed interior with user-friendly controls. Seniors will appreciate the easy-to-read displays and comfortable seating.

  2. Safety: The Santa Fe is equipped with advanced safety features such as forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

  3. Technology: The SUV comes with a host of tech features, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

  4. Performance: The Santa Fe offers a smooth ride with its efficient engine options, making it suitable for both city driving and long road trips.

Pricing for Seniors

Hyundai offers various discounts and special pricing options for seniors. The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe pricing for seniors can be particularly attractive, with potential savings on the MSRP and additional incentives.
 
See Hyundai Santa Fe Pricing for Seniors:
  • MSRP: $28,000 - $42,000
  • Senior Discounts: Up to $1,500 off MSRP
  • Financing Options: Low-interest rates and flexible payment plans

Ford Explorer Overview

The 2024 Ford Explorer is a robust mid-size SUV known for its powerful performance and spacious interior. It caters to families and individuals who need a versatile vehicle for various driving conditions.

Key Features

  1. Comfort and Interior: The Ford Explorer offers a roomy interior with three rows of seating, providing ample space for passengers and cargo.

  2. Safety: The Explorer includes a comprehensive suite of safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and a rearview camera.

  3. Technology: The SUV is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including a large touchscreen, Wi-Fi hotspot, and Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system.

  4. Performance: The Explorer boasts strong engine options, including a turbocharged V6, making it ideal for towing and off-road adventures.

Pricing for Seniors

Ford also provides various incentives and discounts for senior buyers. The pricing and financing options can make the 2024 Ford Explorer an appealing choice for seniors looking for a reliable SUV.
 
Ford Explorer Pricing for Seniors:
  • MSRP: $34,000 - $55,000
  • Senior Discounts: Up to $2,000 off MSRP
  • Financing Options: Competitive interest rates and special lease deals

Detailed Comparison

Interior & Comfort

The Hyundai Santa Fe offers a more compact and cozy interior compared to the Ford Explorer's expansive cabin. The Santa Fe’s seats are designed for long-term comfort, with ample legroom and supportive cushioning, making it an excellent choice for seniors. The Explorer, on the other hand, provides more seating capacity, which is ideal for larger families but might be less critical for senior couples or individuals.

Safety Features

Both SUVs excel in safety, but the Hyundai Santa Fe edges out slightly with its standard safety features across all trims. The Ford Explorer also offers extensive safety options but tends to reserve some advanced features for higher trims.

Technology

The infotainment systems in both vehicles are top-notch. The Hyundai Santa Fe’s system is intuitive and straightforward, which can be particularly beneficial for seniors who may prefer a more user-friendly interface. The Ford Explorer’s SYNC 4 system offers a bit more customization and connectivity options, which might appeal to tech-savvy users.

Performance

The Ford Explorer's engine options provide more power and torque, which is advantageous for those who need towing capabilities or engage in off-road activities. The Hyundai Santa Fe, while less powerful, delivers a smooth and efficient driving experience suitable for everyday use.

Pricing and Discounts for Seniors

When considering the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe pricing for seniors, the potential savings and lower MSRP make it a cost-effective option. Seniors can benefit from significant discounts and favorable financing terms, making it a budget-friendly choice. The New Hyundai Santa Fe Discount for Seniors can further enhance its affordability.
 
The Ford Explorer, while more expensive, offers substantial discounts and incentives for seniors. However, the higher starting price may still make it less accessible for those on a tighter budget.

Comparison Table

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Ford Explorer
 
Feature
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe
2024 Ford Explorer
MSRP
$28,000 -$42,000
$34,000 -$55,000
Senior Discounts
Up to $1,500 off MSRP
Up to $2,000 off MSRP
Engine Options
2.5L I4, 2.5L Turbo I4
2.3L Turbo I4, 3.0L Turbo V6
Seating Capacity
5
6-7
Standard Safety Features
Extensive
Extensive
Infotainment System
8-inch/10.25-inch touchscreen
8-inch/10.1-inch touchscreen
Fuel Economy (Combined MPG)
24-26
20-24
 
Source: Hyundai USA, Ford USA
 

Conclusion

Both the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe and Ford Explorer offer compelling features and benefits, making them excellent choices in the mid-size SUV category. For seniors, the Hyundai Santa Fe stands out with its affordability, comfort, and user-friendly technology. The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe pricing for seniors, combined with available discounts, makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
 
The Ford Explorer, with its powerful performance and spacious interior, is ideal for those who need extra capacity and towing capabilities. While it may come at a higher price point, the senior discounts and financing options can help mitigate the cost.
 
Ultimately, the choice between these two models will depend on individual needs and preferences. By considering the detailed features, pricing, and suitability for seniors, you can make an informed decision that best meets your requirements.
 

References

  1. Hyundai USA. Hyundai Santa Fe 2024 Overview. https://www.hyundaiusa.com/us/en/vehicles/santa-fe
  2. Ford USA. Ford Explorer 2024 Overview. https://www.ford.com/suvs/explorer/
  3. American Automobile Association. Senior Driving Discounts. https://www.aaa.com/autorepair/articles/senior-driving-discounts
  4. Kelley Blue Book. 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Pricing. https://www.kbb.com/hyundai/santa-fe/2024/
  5. Edmunds. 2024 Ford Explorer Pricing. https://www.edmunds.com/ford/explorer/2024/