Santa Fe SUV: The Ultimate Guide to Versatile Driving in 2025
The Santa Fe SUV has long been celebrated for its ability to adapt to various driving scenarios, making it a favorite among those who demand both performance and practicality. With its robust engine options, advanced all-wheel-drive system, and spacious cabin, the Santa Fe is designed to handle everything from daily commutes to weekend getaways. Its sleek exterior and premium interior materials further enhance its appeal, offering a luxurious feel without compromising on functionality.
Performance and Engine Options
The Santa Fe SUV offers a range of engine choices to suit different driving preferences. The base model features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, the available turbocharged 2.5-liter engine generates 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, providing spirited acceleration and towing capacity. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive shifts.
All-Wheel-Drive Capability
One of the Santa Fe’s standout features is its HTRAC all-wheel-drive system, which automatically adjusts torque distribution between the front and rear wheels for optimal traction. This system is particularly beneficial in adverse weather conditions or off-road environments, ensuring stability and control. Drivers can also select from multiple drive modes, including Smart, Sport, and Snow, to tailor the vehicle’s performance to their needs.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The Santa Fe’s interior is designed with both comfort and convenience in mind. The cabin offers ample legroom and headroom for all passengers, along with premium materials and ergonomic seating. Advanced technology features include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, the Santa Fe boasts a suite of driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority in the Santa Fe SUV, which comes equipped with Hyundai’s SmartSense suite of advanced safety technologies. These include forward collision-avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, and safe exit assist. The vehicle also features a surround-view monitor and parking collision-avoidance assist, making it easier to navigate tight spaces.
Comparison Table: Santa Fe SUV vs. Competitors
| Feature | Santa Fe SUV | Honda Passport | Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder | 3.5L V6 | 2.4L 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 191 | 280 | 265 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 181 | 262 | 310 |
| All-Wheel Drive | HTRAC | i-VTM4 | Dynamic Torque Vectoring |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.25-inch | 8-inch | 12.3-inch |
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact
The Santa Fe SUV is designed with fuel efficiency in mind, offering an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for the base engine. The turbocharged engine slightly reduces these figures but still provides competitive fuel economy for its class. Hyundai also offers a hybrid variant for those seeking even greater efficiency, with an estimated 36 mpg combined.
Pricing and Trim Levels
The Santa Fe SUV is available in several trim levels, including SE, SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy. Pricing starts at $29,000 for the base SE model and goes up to $43,000 for the fully loaded Calligraphy trim. Each trim level offers a unique combination of features, allowing buyers to choose the model that best fits their budget and preferences.
For more information, visit the official Hyundai website at www.hyundai.com or check out reviews from trusted automotive sources like Car and Driver and MotorTrend .