Hyundai Santa Fe: A Comprehensive Guide to the Popular Mid-Size SUV

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a versatile mid-size SUV that combines style, functionality, and innovation. Known for its sleek exterior design and well-appointed interior, the Santa Fe appeals to a broad audience. Under the hood, it offers a choice of efficient engines, including a turbocharged four-cylinder and a hybrid option, ensuring there’s a model for every driving style. The cabin is spacious, with high-quality materials and advanced tech features like a large touchscreen, wireless charging, and a suite of driver-assistance systems.
One of the Santa Fe’s standout features is its safety technology. Hyundai includes standard features such as forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, making it one of the safest choices in its class. The SUV also boasts impressive cargo space, especially with the rear seats folded down, catering to those who need extra room for gear or luggage. On the road, the Santa Fe delivers a smooth and quiet ride, with responsive handling that makes it enjoyable to drive.
Performance and Engine Options
The Hyundai Santa Fe offers two primary engine choices for 2025. The base model comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower, while the turbocharged 2.5-liter variant delivers 277 horsepower for those seeking more power. A hybrid option is also available, combining a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option for enhanced traction in adverse weather conditions.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Santa Fe impresses with its premium materials and thoughtful design. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives, and the cabin is well-insulated from road noise. Higher trims offer luxuries like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The infotainment system is user-friendly, featuring an 8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Safety and Technology
Hyundai’s commitment to safety is evident in the Santa Fe’s extensive list of standard features. These include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. The SUV also offers optional features like a head-up display and a premium audio system. The intuitive infotainment system ensures that drivers stay connected without distraction, while the robust safety suite provides peace of mind on every journey.
Comparison Table: Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Competitors
| Feature | Hyundai Santa Fe | Toyota Highlander | Honda Pilot | Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder (191 HP) | 2.4L 4-cylinder (265 HP) | 3.5L V6 (280 HP) | 2.3L 4-cylinder (300 HP) |
| Hybrid Option | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Starting Price (USD) | $30,000 | $36,000 | $38,000 | $34,000 |
| Cargo Space (cu ft) | 36.4 | 16 | 18.6 | 18.2 |
| Safety Features | Standard | Standard | Standard | Optional |
For more information, visit the official websites of Hyundai , Toyota , Honda , and Ford .