Hyundai Santa Fe

Like the Hyundai Palisade Hybrid, the cabin of the Santa Fe also gives off a premium vibe and offers great ergonomics, hi-tech features, and spaciousness. Drivers of all variants have access to a motor-driven power steering wheel that has a tilt and telescopic adjustment features as well as a steering wheel remote. However, only higher trim variants are given a heads-up display and a UV-C tray for convenient disinfection of personal belongings. 

All variants are given a 12.3-inch touchscreen audio system display that offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth with voice recognition, and your traditional AM/FM radio. This audio system is linked to a 6-speaker sound system that is not branded but still delivers premium acoustics. You have two USB ports at the front, while four at the rear. Higher trim variants have dual wireless chargers, while lower trims have single. 

In terms of comfort, all variants are equipped with well-padded leather seats that offer great ergonomics. However, only higher trims have Nappa leather upholstery and power relaxation front seats. It is also important to note that its third row space could still be improved.

As previously mentioned, the Hyundai Sante Fe is given a boxy build, which gives it a futuristic appearance on the road. The model line sports the brand’s H-signature LED headlamps - wide projection with low beam assist version for higher variants, while multi-faceted reflectors for lower trims. These headlights alone, make the Santa Fe’s look highly-distinctive within its segment. Additionally, these headlamps are partnered with rectangular LED DRLs.

On the sides, it is given electrically-adjustable power folding mirrors with a heating function and dual repeater lamps that have power tilting and sliding mechanisms as well as a one-touch safety feature. Walking behind this SUV, you’ll notice its big H-shaped rear combination lamps, which further emphasize Hyundai’s modern-age styling. For added convenience, drivers can use this car’s power tail gate for easier loading and unloading of cargo or baggage. Like its bigger sibling, the Palisade Hybrid, this also gets a dual sunroof, which younger generation passengers can definitely enjoy because it gives natural lighting and an aesthetic background.

All variants of the Hyundai Santa Fe are 4,830 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 2,815 mm in wheelbase. In terms of height, the 1.6T HEV Calligraphy 6AT AWD and 2.5T Calligraphy 8DCT AWD variants are 1,780 mm, which is ten inches taller than the rest (1,770 mm). 

Furthermore, the 2.5T Calligraphy 8DCT AWD variant runs on 21-inch alloy wheels, while all the other variants run on the 20-inch counterpart. Ultimately, its build is designed to withstand rough outdoor conditions.

All variants of the Hyundai Santa Fe utilize a suspension combination of a MacPherson strut at the front and a multi-link at the rear. This line offers great stability and smooth maneuvering thanks to its well-tuned suspension system. In terms of smoothness and adaptability, the hybrid variant has an advantage courtesy of its e-Dynamic and e-Comfort Drive features. 

The Hyundai Santa Fe offers three engine options. First, lower gasoline-powered variants run on a 2.5L Smartstream G2.5 engine that produces a maximum power output of 194 PS and a maximum torque of 246 Nm.

Second, the higher trim gasoline-powered variant runs on a 2.5L Smartstream G2.5T engine that produces a maximum power output of 281 PS and a maximum torque of 422 Nm. Meanwhile, the hybrid variant is powered by a 1.6 T-GDI Hybrid engine that produces a maximum combined power output of 235 PS and a maximum torque of 367 Nm. 

The GL variants run on 8-speed automatic transmission. The GL and lower GLS variants run on two-wheel drive, while the higher trim GLS variant runs on all-wheel drive (AWD) like the Calligraphy gasoline and hybrid variants. Meanwhile, the hybrid variant runs on 6-speed automatic transmission, while the top gasoline-powered variant runs on 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. 

All the variants are feasible to use as vehicles for daily city driving. However, the hybrid variant leads in this conversation since it has better fuel economy than its gasoline-powered counterparts. In contrast, when you want an exhilarating cruising experience on the highway, the top gasoline-powered variant (2.5T Calligraphy AWD 8DCT) is the best one to pick since it has more power and torque and just better performance overall. All variants have the ability to effectively minimize road and engine noises, ensuring a peaceful and relaxing experience while on the go.

Like newer-generation Hyundai vehicles, the Santa Fe is also equipped with the brand’s ‘Smartsense’, its own set of advanced driver assistance systems. This includes smart cruise control with stop and go features, assistance systems for forward collision avoidance, lane following and keeping, reverse parking collision avoidance, and manual speed limiting, monitoring systems for blind spot and surround viewing, parking distance warning, and a rear occupant alert. It also offers standard and advanced safety and security features.

All variants utilize 16-inch discs for rear braking. Higher trim variants use 18-inch discs for front braking, while lower trims use 17-inch counterparts. The line’s braking setup is protected by an anti-lock braking system with multi-collision brake.

Setting its prices aside, the fifth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe is the best in the line yet in terms of design, cabin space, interior features, and overall on-road performance. It might not be the top in its segment, but it delivers functionality, reliability, and efficiency that can compete with what today’s class leaders offer.