Comparisons & Tests•5 October 2026•8 min read
Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV vs Renault Rafale E-Tech 4x4: Large Family SUV Breakdown (Dimensions, Boot Space & Real Range)
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PHEVs.eu Road Test Team
PHEVs.eu Editorial • Automotive Technical Review
Executive Summary & Key Takeaways
A deep technical comparison between two of Europe's most searched large plug-in hybrid SUVs: the boldly redesigned 7-seater Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV and the athletic 300 hp Renault Rafale E-Tech 4x4. Complete dimensions, boot capacities, battery sizes, and electric ranges analyzed.
Large family SUVs with plug-in hybrid powertrains represent one of the most hotly contested categories across European roads. Two models consistently lead technical inquiries: the radically boxy, practical 7-seater Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV, and the French avant-garde, 300-horsepower Renault Rafale E-Tech 4x4.
Here is an in-depth dimensional and technical breakdown comparing boot volumes, battery packs, and real electric range.
Technical Specifications & Dimensions Comparison
| Parameter | Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV (2025/2026) | Renault Rafale E-Tech 4x4 300 |
|---|---|---|
| Total System Power | 253 hp (186 kW) | 300 hp (221 kW) |
| 0 – 100 km/h Acceleration | 8.8 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Battery Capacity (Gross / Net) | 13.8 kWh (Net ~11.5 kWh) | 22.0 kWh (Net 20.0 kWh) |
| WLTP Pure Electric Range | 54 km | 100+ km |
| Length | 4,830 mm | 4,710 mm |
| Width | 1,900 mm | 1,860 mm |
| Height | 1,770 mm (Boxy upright profile) | 1,610 mm (Coupé SUV silhouette) |
| Wheelbase | 2,815 mm | 2,740 mm |
| Boot Space (5 Seats / 2 Seats) | 711 litres / 2,032 litres | 627 litres / 1,604 litres |
| Seating Layout | 5 or 7 Seats | 5 Seats Coupé |
| AC Charging Speed | 3.6 kW (Single-phase) | 7.4 kW (Fast AC) |
1. Dimensions and Boot Utility: Santa Fe Dominates
- Hyundai Santa Fe: With its bold upright boxy styling, vertical tailgate, and elevated roofline, the Santa Fe offers one of the roomiest passenger cabins in the D-segment. Even with all three seating rows deployed, it retains over 200 litres of cargo space. Folding the rear seats flat expands volume to a massive 2,032 litres.
- Renault Rafale: Despite its swept-back coupé silhouette, the Rafale features a generous 627-litre luggage compartment. However, rear headroom and cargo height cannot rival the van-like interior flexibility of the Santa Fe.
2. Battery Capacity & Pure EV Range: Rafale Takes the Crown
- Renault Rafale E-Tech: Equipped with a modern 22.0 kWh battery and an independent electric motor on the rear axle, the Rafale delivers over 100 km of official WLTP pure electric range. Everyday city commutes and suburban driving can be performed entirely emissions-free.
- Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV: Inheriting an older 13.8 kWh battery, the Santa Fe delivers around 45–50 km of real-world electric range before its 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine kicks in.
Verdict & Buying Recommendation
- Choose the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV: If you have a large family, require 7 seats, and prioritize cavernous boot capacity and upright passenger comfort.
- Choose the Renault Rafale E-Tech 4x4: If you desire 300 hp sports-car acceleration, a striking fastback stance, and 100+ km of real electric commuting autonomy.
Tags & Topics
#Santa Fe PHEV#Renault Rafale#Santa Fe Dimensions#Boot Space#Renault Rafale Specs#7 Seater PHEV#SUV Karşılaştırma
Data Verification: Technical specifications and regulatory insights verified against official manufacturer WLTP test sheets and European regulatory filings.
Updated: October 2026
