Kia Santa Fe: A Comprehensive Review of Features, Performance, and Value
The Kia Santa Fe is a midsize SUV that combines practicality with modern styling and advanced technology. Known for its spacious cabin, smooth ride, and robust safety features, the Santa Fe appeals to a wide range of buyers. The 2025 model builds on this legacy with subtle design tweaks, enhanced connectivity options, and improved fuel efficiency. Whether you’re commuting in the city or embarking on a road trip, the Santa Fe offers a comfortable and capable driving experience.

Performance and Engine Options
The 2025 Kia Santa Fe offers two engine choices, catering to different driving preferences. The base model comes equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, the available turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive shifts.
Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option for enhanced traction in challenging conditions. The Santa Fe’s suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing road imperfections while maintaining composed handling. Fuel economy is competitive, with the base engine achieving an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Santa Fe boasts a well-appointed cabin with high-quality materials and thoughtful design. The seats are supportive and spacious, with ample legroom for both front and rear passengers. The third-row option, available in higher trims, adds versatility for larger families. Standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies.
Higher trims offer luxuries such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The Santa Fe also excels in cargo space, providing up to 72.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, making it ideal for hauling gear or luggage.
Safety and Technology
The 2025 Santa Fe comes standard with Kia’s Drive Wise suite of advanced 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 for added peace of mind.
On the technology front, the Santa Fe offers wireless charging, a premium Harman Kardon audio system, and an available head-up display. The infotainment system is intuitive, with crisp graphics and quick response times. Over-the-air updates ensure the system stays current with the latest software enhancements.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Kia 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 (City/Highway) | 24/29 mpg | 22/29 mpg | 20/27 mpg |
| Cargo Space (Max) | 72.1 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft | 83.9 cu ft |
| Starting Price (USD) | $30,000 | $36,000 | $38,000 |
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Kia Santa Fe stands out as a well-rounded midsize SUV, offering a compelling mix of performance, comfort, and technology. Its competitive pricing and generous warranty coverage make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. While it may not have the same brand cachet as some rivals, the Santa Fe more than holds its own with its feature-rich interior and dependable performance.
For those in the market for a versatile and family-friendly SUV, the Santa Fe is certainly worth considering. Its combination of practicality, style, and value ensures it remains a top choice in its segment.
References:
Kia Official Website
Toyota Official Website
Honda Official Website