Hyundai Crossover Santa Fe: A Comprehensive Review of Features, Performance, and Value

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a midsize crossover that combines practicality with modern styling and advanced technology. It offers seating for up to five passengers, with ample legroom and cargo space, making it an ideal choice for families and adventurers alike. The Santa Fe is available in multiple trims, each offering a unique set of features to cater to different preferences and budgets. Under the hood, it comes with a choice of efficient engines, including a turbocharged option for those seeking more power. Hyundai has also equipped the Santa Fe with a comprehensive suite of safety features, ensuring peace of mind on the road.
Design and Exterior
The Santa Fe features a bold and contemporary design, with a cascading grille, sleek LED headlights, and muscular body lines. The 2025 model retains these signature elements while introducing subtle updates to keep it fresh. Available in a range of colors, the Santa Fe can be customized to suit individual tastes. Roof rails and optional larger wheels add to its rugged appeal, making it as stylish as it is functional.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Santa Fe offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin. High-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and ergonomic seating ensure a comfortable ride for all occupants. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a large touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available navigation. Heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system are among the upscale options available.
Performance and Efficiency
The Santa Fe is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine as standard, delivering 191 horsepower. A turbocharged 2.5-liter engine is also available, producing 277 horsepower for those who desire more spirited performance. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifts and responsive acceleration. Fuel efficiency is competitive, with the base engine achieving an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined.
Safety and Technology
Hyundai has equipped the Santa Fe with an array of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims add blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. The Santa Fe also offers Hyundai’s Blue Link connected services, allowing remote start, vehicle diagnostics, and emergency assistance via a smartphone app.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Hyundai Santa Fe | Toyota Highlander | Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder (191 HP) | 2.4L 4-cylinder (265 HP) | 3.5L V6 (280 HP) |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | 25 combined | 24 combined | 22 combined |
| Safety Features | Standard Hyundai SmartSense | Standard Toyota Safety Sense | Standard Honda Sensing |
| Starting Price (USD) | $32,000 | $36,000 | $38,000 |
Final Thoughts
The Hyundai Santa Fe stands out as a well-rounded crossover, offering a compelling mix of style, comfort, and technology. Its competitive pricing and robust feature set make it a strong alternative to rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, safety, or interior space, the Santa Fe delivers on multiple fronts, making it a worthy consideration for anyone in the market for a midsize SUV.
References