A proper head-to-head in South Africa — we cover price, performance,
petrol economy, safety and what it'll actually cost you to own each one long term.
MU-X starts ZAR 1249900 cheaperMU-X from ZAR 752,400 · Santa Fe Hybrid from ZAR 1,249,900
Key Specs Side by Side
The specs that matter most — highlighted where one car leads.
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Engine Power
110 @ 3600
Not Applicable
Torque
350 @ 1800-2600
367
Engine Size
3000
1598
Claimed Mileage
13.2
7.5
Ground Clearance
235
177 mm
Boot Space
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Airbags
Standard
Not Available
Kerb Weight
2080
Not Applicable
Seating Capacity
7
7
Warranty
5 years / 120 000 km
5
= leads in this spec
The Bottom Line
MU-X has a slight advantage, but Santa Fe Hybrid remains highly competitive.
Where They Actually Differ
Performance
Santa Fe Hybrid
+3 pts
Efficiency
MU-X
+11 pts
Safety
MU-X
+66 pts
Practicality
MU-X
+8 pts
Ownership
Santa Fe Hybrid
+21 pts
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
🏆 Overall Winner
MU-X
Strengths
Better fuel efficiency
Stronger safety package
More practical for daily use
Weak Spots
Less powerful engine setup
Shorter warranty coverage
Best suited to:Fuel EfficiencyFamily Usage
Santa Fe Hybrid
Strengths
More powerful engine output
Better long-term ownership value
Weak Spots
Lower fuel efficiency
Less comprehensive safety features
Less practical in daily usage
Best suited to:Highway Driving
Which One's Right for You?
MU-X
Buyers looking for better fuel efficiency
Families prioritising stronger safety equipment
Large families needing more practicality and usability
Santa Fe Hybrid
Drivers who prioritise strong highway performance and overtaking power
Long-term owners valuing warranty and ownership peace of mind
Full Specs, Side by Side
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Model Introduced Year
2013
Current local generation year not confirmed
Generation
Current generation MU-X built on Isuzu D-Max platform
Current South African Santa Fe Hybrid listing; generation notes should be kept tied to the local model year and confirmed derivative data.
Facelift History
Latest updates improved styling and safety tech
Model-year updates can affect trim, wheels, screens, safety equipment and colours. Use the latest South African price list when checking a specific vehicle.
Facelift Launched Since
Original current-generation version
Original current-generation version
Facelift Version Ending
Current
Current
Body Style
7-seat SUV
Seven-seat SUV
Color Note
White, Black, Silver, Grey, Red
Colour availability changes by model year, production batch and dealer stock, check the current colour selector before ordering.
Dealer Stock Note
Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup
Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup
Drivetrain Note
Drive layout derived from the official derivative naming: 3.0 DDi LSE 4x4 AT
Drive layout derived from the official derivative naming: 1.6T Hybrid Elite AWD 6AT
Model Year
MY26
2026
Production Status
published
published
Segment
SUV
SUV
Vehicle Type
SUV
SUV
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Ground Clearance
235 mm
177 mm
Wheelbase
2855 mm
2815 mm
Length
4850 mm
4830 mm
Width
1870 mm
1900 mm
Height
1825 mm
1770 mm
Kerb Weight
2080 kg
Not Applicable
Gross Vehicle Weight
2800 kg
Not Applicable
Seating Capacity
7
7
Boot Space
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Towing Capacity
3500 kg
Not Applicable
Front Track Width
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Rear Track Width
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Turning Radius
11.4 m
Not Applicable
Load Bed Length
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Load Bed Width
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Front Legroom
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Rear Legroom
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Front Headroom
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Rear Headroom
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Front Shoulder Room
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Rear Shoulder Room
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Boot Space Seats Folded
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Number of Doors
5
5
Max Payload
659 kg
Not Applicable
Boot Volume
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Doors
5
5
Seats
7
7
Fuel Tank Capacity
80 l
67 l
Front Overhang Mm
895 mm
-
Gross Combined Mass Kg
5900 kg
-
Gross Vehicle Mass Kg
2800 kg
Not Applicable
Ground Clearance Max
235 mm
177 mm
Ground Clearance Min
235 mm
177 mm
Ground Clearance Mm
235 mm
177 mm
Height Mm
1825 mm
1770 mm
Length Mm
4850 mm
4830 mm
Loadbox Length Mm
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Loadbox Width Mm
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Payload Kg
659 kg
Not Applicable
Cargo Volume
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Rear Overhang Mm
1100 mm
-
Tare Mass Kg
2080 kg
Not Applicable
Track Front Rear Mm
1570 / 1570
-
Turning Circle
11.4 m
Not Applicable
Turning Circle M
11.4 m
Not Applicable
Width Mm
1870 mm
1900 mm
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Engine
Not Applicable
1.6-litre turbo petrol hybrid
Engine Type
Not Applicable
1.6-litre turbo petrol hybrid
Displacement
3000 cc
1598 cc
Cylinders
4
Not Applicable
Valves per Cylinder
16
Not Applicable
Power
110 @ 3600 kW
Not Applicable
Power @ RPM
140 @ 3600
Not Applicable
Torque
350 @ 1800-2600 Nm
367 Nm
Torque @ RPM
450 @ 1600-2600
Not Applicable
Fuel System
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Turbocharger
Standard
Not Applicable
Top Speed
Not Applicable
190 km/h
0-100 km/h
Not Applicable
9.5 sec
Compression Ratio
16.3:1
Not Applicable
Cylinder Bore
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Piston Stroke
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Engine Code
4JJ3
Not Applicable
Power
110 @ 3600 bhp
Not Applicable
Fuel Grade Required
Diesel
Hybrid
Cylinder Layout
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Engine Aspiration
Standard
Not Applicable
Engine Type Config
Not Applicable
1.6-litre turbo petrol hybrid
0–100 km/h
Not Applicable
9.5 sec
Battery Capacity
Not Available
-
Charging Port
Not Available
-
AC Charging Time
Not Available
-
Engine Displacement
3000 cc
1598 cc
Engine Displacement Litres
3 l
1.6 l
EV Range
Not Available
-
Acceleration 0 100
Not Applicable
9.5 sec
Bore X Stroke Mm
95.4 x 104.9
-
Combined System Power
Not Available
-
Combined System Torque
Not Available
-
Engine Config
Not Applicable
1.6-litre turbo petrol hybrid
Engine Cylinders
4
Not Applicable
Engine Displacement Cc
3000 cc
1598 cc
Engine Power kW
110 @ 3600 kW
Not Applicable
Engine Sump Guard
Standard
-
Engine Torque Nm
350 @ 1800-2600 Nm
367 Nm
Engine Valves
16
Not Applicable
Induction
Standard
Not Applicable
Max Power kW
110 @ 3600 kW
Not Applicable
Max Torque Nm
350 @ 1800-2600 Nm
367 Nm
Maximum Power
110 @ 3600 kW
Not Applicable
Maximum Torque
350 @ 1800-2600 Nm
367 Nm
Motor Position
Not Available
-
Motor Power
Not Available
-
Motor Torque
Not Available
-
Motor Type
Not Available
-
Power Assisted Steering
Hydraulic
-
Power kW Rpm
140 @ 3600
Not Applicable
Active Exhaust
Not Available
Not Available
System Output
Not Available
175.2
Torque Nm Rpm
450 @ 1600-2600
Not Applicable
Turbo Type
Standard
Not Applicable
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Drive Type
4WD / AWD
4WD / AWD
Drivetrain Layout
4WD / AWD
4WD / AWD
LSD Available
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Transfer Case
Confirmed 4WD derivative
Not Applicable
Differential Lock
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Paddle Shifters
Standard
Standard
Final Drive Ratio
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Number of Gears
4 km/h
6 km/h
Transmission Type
Automatic
Automatic
Clutch Type
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Drivetrain
4WD / AWD
4WD / AWD
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
4WD Engagement
Available
Not Applicable
4WD Hi Range
Available
Not Applicable
4WD Lo Range
Available where 4WD low range is fitted
Not Applicable
4WD Selector
Standard
Not Applicable
Automatic Shift Paddles
Standard
Standard
Drive Mode Selector
4WD/off-road drive mode support
-
Front Differential Lock
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Gear Knob Trim
Leather / Piano Black
-
Gear Ratio 1st
3.600
-
Gear Ratio 2nd
2.090
-
Gear Ratio 3rd
1.488
-
Gear Ratio 4th
1.000
-
Gear Ratio 5th
0.687
-
Gear Ratio 6th
0.580
-
Gear Ratio Reverse
3.732
-
Gearbox Type
Automatic
Automatic
Low Range
Available where 4WD low range is fitted
Not Applicable
Axle Layout
4WD / AWD
4WD / AWD
Rear Differential Lock
Standard
Not Applicable
Transfer Case Guard
Standard
-
Transmission Speeds
4 km/h
6 km/h
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Claimed Mileage
13.2 km/l
7.5 km/l
City Mileage
10.8 km/l
6.1 km/l
Highway Mileage
15.3 km/l
8.7 km/l
Fuel Tank Capacity
80 l
67 l
Emission Standard
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
AdBlue Tank Capacity
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Auto Start Stop
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Average Fuel Consumption
7.6 l/100km
13.3 l/100km
Claimed Fuel Consumption
7.6 l/100km
13.3 l/100km
Fuel Efficiency
7.6 l/100km
13.3 l/100km
Real-world Mileage
13.2 km/l
7.5 km/l
AC Charging Power
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Charging Port Type
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Charging Time AC Full
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Charging Time DC Fast 80pct
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Charging Type
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Combined Consumption
7.6 l/100km
13.3 l/100km
Combined Consumption L 100km
7.6 l/100km
13.3 l/100km
DC Charging Power
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Fuel Economy Combined
7.6 l/100km
13.3 l/100km
Fuel Tank Litres
80 l
67 l
Fuel Type
Diesel
Hybrid
Low Range Ratio
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Combined Driving Range
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Electric Consumption
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Range Real World Highway
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Range Real World Mixed
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Range Wltp
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Airbags
Standard
Not Available
ABS
Standard
Standard
Electronic Stability Control
Standard
Not Available
Traction Control
Not Available
Standard
Hill Descent Control
Standard
Not Available
Hill Start Assist
Standard
Standard
Child Safety Lock
Standard
Not Available
ISOFIX Mounts
Standard
Not Available
Brake Assist
Standard
Not Available
Tyre Pressure Monitor
Standard
Not Available
Engine Immobiliser
Standard
Not Available
Alarm System
Standard
-
Side Impact Beams
Standard
-
Seatbelt Warning All Seats
Standard
Not Available
Front Parking Sensors
Standard
Standard
AEB
Standard
Not Available
BA
Standard
Not Available
Brake Override System
Not Available
Not Available
Curtain Airbags
Standard
Not Available
Driver Airbag
Standard
Not Available
EBD
Standard
Standard
Engine Immobiliser
Standard
Not Available
Hill Hold
Standard
Standard
Passenger Airbag
Standard
Not Available
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Standard
Not Available
Seatbelt Pretensioners
Standard
Not Available
Side Airbags
Not Available
Not Available
TCS
Not Available
Standard
Blind Spot Monitoring
Standard
-
Knee Airbag
Driver
Not Available
ABS EBD
Standard
Standard
Anti Theft Alarm
Standard
-
Driver Front Passenger Airbags
Standard
-
Driver Passenger Airbags
Standard
-
ESC With Traction Control
Standard
-
Far Side Airbag
Standard
-
Front Seat Side Airbags
Standard
-
Height Adjustable Seatbelts
Standard
-
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Cruise Control
Standard
Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not Available
Not Available
Lane Keep Assist
Standard
Not Available
Lane Departure Warning
Standard
Not Available
Blind Spot Monitoring
Standard
Not Available
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Standard
Not Available
Parking Sensors
Front & Rear
Front and rear
Rear View Camera
Standard
Not Available
360 Degree Camera
Standard
Not Available
Autonomous Emergency Braking
Standard
Not Available
Driver Fatigue Alert
Not Available
Not Available
Traffic Sign Recognition
Not Available
Not Available
Auto Highbeam
Standard
Not Available
Auto Lights
Standard
-
Auto Wipers
Not Available
Not Available
Drive Modes
Not Available
Not Available
EV Mode
Not Available
-
Rear Parking Sensors
Front & Rear
Standard
Reverse Camera
Standard
Not Available
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not Available
Not Available
Park Assist
Not Available
Not Available
Around View Monitor
Standard
Not Available
Blind Spot Warning
Standard
Not Available
Driver Monitoring
Standard
-
Emergency Braking
Standard
-
Forward Collision Warning
Standard
Not Available
Front Camera
Standard
-
Multi Collision Braking
Standard
-
Occupant Detection Sensor
Passengers
-
Parking Distance Sensors
Front & Rear
-
Parking Sensor
Front & Rear
-
Automatic High Beam
Standard
-
Pre-Collision System
Standard
-
Rear View Camera
Standard
-
Reverse Camera Type
Standard
-
Reversing Camera
Standard
-
Surround View Camera
Standard
Not Available
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Seat Material
Partial Leather
Cloth
Seat Adjustment
Driver Power 8-way & Passenger Power 4-way
-
Heated Seats
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Ventilated Seats
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Steering Type
Hydraulic
-
Steering Adjustment
Tilt & Telescopic
-
Ambient Lighting
Standard
Not Applicable
Rear Armrest
Standard with 2 cupholders
-
Rear USB Ports
Standard
-
Steering Wheel Material
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Instrument Cluster Type
Standard, 7-inch with decoration
Digital instrument cluster
Interior Colour Options
5
3
60 40 Split Seat
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Adjustable Driver Seat
Driver Power 8-way & Passenger Power 4-way
-
Driver Seat Adjustment
Driver Power 8-way & Passenger Power 4-way
Not Applicable
Fabric Seats
Partial Leather
Cloth
Passenger Seat Adjustment
Driver Power 8-way & Passenger Power 4-way
Not Applicable
Armrest Rear
Standard with 2 cupholders
-
Driver Seat
Driver Power 8-way & Passenger Power 4-way
-
Front Seats Configuration
2 x Bucket Reclining
-
Heated Front Seats
Standard
-
Interior Courtesy Lamps
Standard
Cabin trim, seating material, screen layout and driver-assistance equipment vary by derivative. Compare the chosen Santa Fe Hybrid grade before assuming a feature is included.
Leather Accented Seat Trim
Partial Leather
-
Interior Colours
5
3
Rear Seat Centre Armrest
Standard with 2 cupholders
-
Seat Belt Warning
Standard
-
Seat Capacity
7
7
Seat Count
7
7
Seat Trim
Partial Leather
Cloth
Second Row Seat Configuration
Bench 60:40 Fold-Flat
-
Third Row Seat Configuration
Bench 50:50 Fold-Flat
-
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Climate Control
Auto climate control with rear cabin cooling vents
Not Available
Power Windows
All with driver one touch, jam protection and timer
Not Available
Keyless Entry
Standard
Not Available
Push Button Start
Not Available
Not Available
Wireless Charging
Not Available
Wireless
Sunroof
Not Available
Not Available
Electric Tailgate
Power with step sensor and control switch
Not Available
Automatic Headlamps
Standard
-
Rain Sensing Wipers
Not Available
Not Available
Auto Dimming Mirror
Auto Dimming
-
12V Accessory Socket
2
-
AC Type
Auto climate control with rear cabin cooling vents
Not Available
Adaptive Dampers
Not Available
Not Available
Auto Dimming Irvm
Auto Dimming
-
Climate Zones
Auto climate control with rear cabin cooling vents
-
Electric Folding Mirrors
All with driver one touch, jam protection and timer
-
TPMS
Standard
Not Available
Front Power Outlet
2
-
Fuel Consumption Combined
7.6
13.3
Gear Shift Type
Automatic
Automatic
Ground Clearance Unladen
235
-
Hill Start Assist
Standard
Standard
Intercooler
Standard
-
Launch Control
Not Available
Not Available
Payload Capacity
659
-
Performance Data Logger
Not Available
Not Available
Power Mirrors
All with driver one touch, jam protection and timer
-
Rear Wing
Standard
-
Rev Matching
Not Available
Not Available
Seat Type
Partial Leather
-
Seatbelt Pre Tensioner
Standard
-
Seatbelt Reminder
Standard
Not Available
Service Plan
5 years / 90 000 km
3 Years / 45000 km
Side Steps
Standard / Very Dark Magnetite
-
Skid Plates
Confirmed 4WD derivative
-
Spare Wheel
Alloy 18 x 7.5J-33
Not Available
Stability Control
Standard
Not Available
Steering Mounted Controls
Standard
-
Tail Lamps
Standard
-
Telescopic Steering
Tilt & Telescopic
-
Tilt Steering
Tilt & Telescopic
-
Valves Per Cylinder
16
Not Applicable
Air Conditioning
Auto climate control with rear cabin cooling vents
Not Available
Automatic High Beam
Standard
-
B Pillar Blackout
Standard
-
Battery Preconditioning
Not Available
-
Battery Voltage
Not Available
-
Bed Extender
Not Available
Not Available
Canopy Fitment
Not Available
Not Available
Digital Speedometer
Standard, 7-inch with decoration
-
Front Bumper Colour
Gloss Black / Body Colour
-
Front Final Drive Ratio
3.727
-
Front Reading Lamps
Standard
-
Front Wiper
Auto, Rain Sensing
-
Front Wipers Type
Auto, Rain Sensing
-
Intelligent Battery System
Standard
-
Intelligent Keyless Entry
Standard
-
Lift Gate
Power with step sensor and control switch
-
Load Bed Cover
Not Available
Not Available
Load Bed Light
Not Available
Not Available
Load Bed Steps
Not Available
Not Available
Loadbox Depth Mm
Not Available
Not Available
Loadbox Rope Hooks
Not Available
Not Available
Loadbox Tiedown Brackets
Not Available
Not Available
Manual Aircon
Auto climate control with rear cabin cooling vents
-
Mirror
All with driver one touch, jam protection and timer
-
Mudflaps
Front & Rear
-
Oil Pan Guard
Standard
-
One Pedal Driving
Not Available
-
Passive Entry Start
Standard
-
Power Socket 12v
2
-
Powered Tailgate
Power with step sensor and control switch
-
Pre Air Cleaner
Standard
-
Reading Lights Front
Standard
-
Rear Bumper Colour
Body Colour / Gloss Black
-
Rear Electric Motor
Not Available
-
Rear Final Drive Ratio
3.727
-
Rear LED Combination Taillights
Standard
-
Rear Privacy Windows
Standard
-
Rearview Mirror Inside
Auto Dimming
-
Regenerative Braking
Not Available
-
Regenerative Braking Levels
Not Available
-
Remote Central Locking
Standard
-
Remote Start Engine
Standard
-
Rim Size
Alloy 18 x 7.5J-33
Not Available
Roof Rack Compatibility
Standard / Very Dark Magnetite
-
Side Impact Bars
Standard
-
Sonar
Front & Rear
-
Sound System
8
Not Available
Source Model Column
3.0 LSE A/T 4x4
santa-fe-hybrid
Sport Plus Mode
Not Available
Not Available
Sports Bar
Not Available
Not Available
Steering Column Adjustment
Tilt & Telescopic
-
Surround View Monitor
Standard
Not Available
Tailgate Damper
Not Available
Not Available
Tailgate Lock
Not Available
Not Available
Tow Bar Type
Not Available
Not Available
Trailer Stability Assist
Confirmed 4WD derivative
-
Trailer Sway Control
Standard
-
Trim Level
flagship
flagship
Unlocking
Standard
Not Available
Variant Role
Flagship / premium derivative
Flagship / premium derivative
Vdc
Standard
-
Vehicle To Grid
Not Available
-
Vehicle To Load
Not Available
-
Walk Away Auto Door Lock
Standard
-
Walk Away Lock
Standard
-
Water Depth Protection Mm
800 mm
-
Engine Warranty
-
4
Accelerator 0 100
-
9.5 sec
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Infotainment Screen
SYNC
SYNC
Apple CarPlay
Not Available
Standard
Android Auto
Not Available
Standard
Bluetooth Connectivity
Not Available
Standard
Number of Speakers
8
Not Available
Digital Instrument Cluster
Standard, 7-inch with decoration
Digital instrument cluster
USB Ports
Standard
Not Available
FM Radio
9-inch Touch Screen with RDS, MP3, Bluetooth Audio Streaming, integrated mobile handsfree, rear view camera, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi
-
Steering Wheel Audio Controls
Standard
-
Infotainment Screen Size
SYNC
SYNC
Audio Controls On Steering
Standard
-
Rear Usb
Standard
-
Audio
9-inch Touch Screen with RDS, MP3, Bluetooth Audio Streaming, integrated mobile handsfree, rear view camera, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi
-
Audio Input
USB, Auxiliary
-
Audio Speakers
8
Not Available
Audio System
9-inch Touch Screen with RDS, MP3, Bluetooth Audio Streaming, integrated mobile handsfree, rear view camera, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi
-
Front Rear USB Charge Ports
Standard
-
Infotainment Screen
SYNC
SYNC
Multi Information Display
Standard, 7-inch with decoration
Digital display
Connected Services
SYNC
SYNC
Radio
9-inch Touch Screen with RDS, MP3, Bluetooth Audio Streaming, integrated mobile handsfree, rear view camera, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi
-
Touchscreen
SYNC
SYNC
Wireless Apple CarPlay
Not Available
Standard
Smartphone Connectivity
-
Bluetooth
Wireless Android Auto
Not Available
Standard
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
LED Headlamps
Bi-LED
Halogen
Daytime Running Lamps
LED
Not Available
Fog Lamps
Standard, LED
Not Available
Roof Rails
Standard / Very Dark Magnetite
Not Available
Rear Spoiler
Standard
-
Exterior Colour Options
5
3
Rear Wiper
Auto, Rain Sensing
-
Door Handle Finish
Body Colour
-
Body Type
SUV
SUV
DRL
LED
Not Available
Fog Lights
Standard, LED
-
Front Fog Lights
Standard, LED
-
Led Headlights
Bi-LED
Halogen
Led Taillights
Standard
-
Auto Headlights
Standard
-
Automatic Headlamps
Standard
-
Daytime Running Lights
LED
Not Available
Exterior Colour Options
5
3
Exterior Door Handle Colour
Body Colour
-
Exterior Mirror Electric
All with driver one touch, jam protection and timer
-
Front Fog Lamps
Standard, LED
Not Available
Headlamp Levelling
Automatic
-
Headlamps
Bi-LED
Halogen
Headlight Type
Bi-LED
Halogen
Headlights
Bi-LED
Halogen
Load Bed Liner
Not Available
Not Available
Panoramic Sunroof
Not Available
Not Available
Radiator Grille Colour
Dark Chrome
-
Rear Fog Lamps
LED
-
Rear Spoiler
Standard
-
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Approach Angle
30.0 deg
Not Available
Departure Angle
26.0 deg
Not Available
Wading Depth
800 mm
Not Available
Terrain Modes
4WD/off-road drive mode support
Not Available
Locking Differential
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Underbody Protection
Confirmed 4WD derivative
-
4WD System Type
4WD / AWD
4WD / AWD
Hill Descent Control
Standard
Not Available
Approach Angle Deg
30.0 deg
-
Breakover Angle
24.0 deg
Not Available
Breakover Angle Deg
24.0 deg
-
Departure Angle Deg
26.0 deg
-
Energy Recovery Display
Not Available
-
Off Road Descent Control
Standard
-
Off Road Traction Assist
Confirmed 4WD derivative
-
Skid Plate Guard
Standard
-
Terrain Mode Mud
Confirmed 4WD derivative
-
Terrain Mode Sand
Confirmed 4WD derivative
-
Terrain Mode Snow
Confirmed 4WD derivative
-
Wading Depth Mm
800 mm
-
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Tyre Size
265/60R18
Not Available
Front Brake Type
Not Available
Not Available
Rear Brake Type
Not Available
Not Available
Spare Wheel Type
Alloy 18 x 7.5J-33
Not Available
Parking Brake Type
Standard
-
Wheel Rim Size
Alloy 18 x 7.5J-33
Not Available
Spare Tyre
Alloy 18 x 7.5J-33
Not Available
Tyre Type
265/60R18
-
Wheel Diameter
Alloy 18 x 7.5J-33
Not Available
Auto Brake Hold
Standard
-
Autonomous Emergency Brake
Standard
-
Brake Override Accelerator
Standard
-
Braked Towing Capacity
3500 kg
-
Cornering Brake Control
Standard
-
Electric Park Brake
Standard
-
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
Standard
-
Fifth Wheel Prep
Not Available
Not Available
Handbrake Type
Standard
Not Applicable
Hydraulic Brake Assist
Standard
-
Leather Steering Wheel Controls
Standard
-
Multi Collision Brake
Standard
-
Spare Wheel Size Type
Alloy 18 x 7.5J-33
-
Steering Wheel Audio Controls
Standard
-
Steering Wheel Cruise Controls
Standard
-
Steering Wheel Phone Controls
Standard
-
Towing Braked Kg
3500 kg
-
Towing Unbraked Kg
750 kg
-
Tyre Pressure Display
Standard
-
Tyre Pressure Monitoring
Standard
Not Available
Wheel Size Type
Alloy 18 x 7.5J-33
-
Wheelbase Mm
2855 mm
2815 mm
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Front Suspension
Independent High-ride Coil
Not Available
Rear Suspension
Multi-link Coil
Not Available
Power Steering
Hydraulic
-
Steering Column
Tilt & Telescopic
-
Front Spring Type
Independent High-ride Coil
-
Rear Spring Type
Multi-link Coil
-
Shock Absorber Type
Gas
-
Front Suspension Type
Independent High-ride Coil
Not Available
Gross Axle Mass Front Kg
1450 kg
-
Gross Axle Mass Rear Kg
1650 kg
-
High Ride Suspension
Standard
-
MagneRide Damping
Not Available
Not Available
Rear Axle Type
Multi-link Coil
-
Rear Suspension Type
Multi-link Coil
Not Available
Shock Absorbers
Gas
-
Suspension
Independent High-ride Coil
-
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Service Interval
12 months / 15 000 km
15000 km / 12 months
Maintenance Plan
5 years / 90 000 km
3 Years / 45000 km
Engine Oil Change Interval
12 months / 15 000 km
15000 km / 12 months
Service Plan Duration
5 years / 90 000 km
3 Years / 45000 km
Service Plan Distance
5 years / 90 000 km
3 Years / 45000 km
Alternator
120A
120A
Battery Type
Not Available
Lead-acid
Gear Shift Indicator
Not Applicable
Yes
Service Intervals
12 months / 15 000 km
15000 km / 12 months
Battery Warranty
-
4
First Service At
-
15000
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Warranty Years
5 years / 120 000 km
5
Warranty Kilometers
5 years / 120 000 km
5
Roadside Assistance
5 years / 120 000 km
5 Years
Anti-Corrosion Warranty
5 years / unlimited km
5 Years
Basic Warranty
5 years / 120 000 km
5
Roadside Assistance
5 years / 120 000 km
5 Years
Warranty
5 years / 120 000 km
5
Warranty Roadside Assistance
5 years / 120 000 km
5 Years
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
CO2 Emissions
200 g/km
Not Applicable
Hybrid System Type
Not Available
Hybrid
Fuel Octane Requirement
Diesel
Hybrid
Idle CO2 Output
200
-
CO2 Emissions G Km
200
-
Particulate Filter
-
Not Available
Spec
MU-X
Santa Fe Hybrid
Ownership Role
Flagship
Flagship
Price Source
South Africa variant price CSV; verify against latest OEM price list
South Africa variant price CSV; verify against latest OEM price list
Price Zar
973800 ZAR
1249900 ZAR
Pricing Role
Current listed price
Current listed price
Starting Price
973800
1249900
Starting Price Zar
973800
1249900
Overall Verdict Score
Decision-grade view of the winner, score gap and category strengths.
Weighted / 100
Verdict readout
MU-X leads by 14 points
MU-X has a slight advantage, but Santa Fe Hybrid remains highly competitive.
Performance
Santa Fe Hybrid +3
Efficiency
MU-X +11
Safety
MU-X +66
Practicality
MU-X +8
Ownership
Santa Fe Hybrid +21
Moderate difference between the models.
Why this scoreView full breakdown
Overall Winner
MU-X
Performance
62/100
Efficiency
52/100
Safety
94/100
Practicality
88/100
Ownership
44/100
Santa Fe Hybrid
Performance
65/100
Efficiency
41/100
Safety
28/100
Practicality
80/100
Ownership
65/100
So, Which One Should You Buy?
🏆Isuzu MU-X
wins with 70 pts
vs 56 pts for Santa Fe Hybrid
In structured scoring, MU-X emerges as the stronger overall package. However, Santa Fe Hybrid may appeal to buyers prioritising different factors. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
Other Comparisons Worth Checking
See how similar cars go head-to-head — you might find a better fit than you expected.
On our scoring the MU-X edges ahead overall. That said, the right choice depends on what you actually use the car for — the breakdown above shows exactly where each one wins and loses.
Efficiency scores: MU-X 52 vs Santa Fe Hybrid 41. In the real world, diesel variants of either car will beat the claimed figure on long highways and fall short in Joburg traffic.
Safety scores: MU-X 94, Santa Fe Hybrid 28. Check each model page for NCAP ratings and which trim levels include AEB and blind-spot monitoring — those features aren't always standard.
Long-term ownership scores: MU-X 44, Santa Fe Hybrid 65. Service intervals, parts availability in SA, and whether a service plan is bundled all factor in — check the individual variant specs for that detail.
Practicality scores: MU-X 88, Santa Fe Hybrid 80. This covers boot space, seat flexibility, and day-to-day usability — not just interior dimensions on paper.
Performance scores: MU-X 62, Santa Fe Hybrid 65. This looks at real-world pace — 0–100 kph, highway flexibility, and how either car feels when you actually need to overtake on an N-road.
Resale varies with colour, spec, and market timing, but Japanese brands — and Toyota specifically — have a strong track record in SA. Check current used prices for both on AutoTrader to see the real gap right now.
Ground clearance and 4WD availability are what matter most here. Scroll to the spec table above to compare both side by side — if either model offers a 4WD variant, that's the version worth comparing.
Fuel, insurance, and service costs are the big three. Diesel variants of both models typically save R800–R1,500/month in fuel at current SA pump prices. The MU-X edges the overall ownership score, but check whether either variant includes a service plan — that changes the monthly maths significantly.
The MU-X scores better overall, but neither car is a bad buy here. It comes down to what features matter to you — check the full spec table above to see exactly what you gain and lose at each price point.
In Depth — Breaking It All Down
The comparison between MU-X and Santa Fe Hybrid in South Africa
evaluates performance, efficiency, safety, practicality and long-term ownership value.
Performance: MU-X scores 62 vs 65.
Efficiency: MU-X scores 52 vs 41.
Safety: MU-X scores 94 vs 28.
Practicality: MU-X scores 88 vs 80.
Ownership: MU-X scores 44 vs 65.
Final structured scoring gives MU-X
the advantage in this comparison.
Compare
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