Like the idea of a smaller SUV but looking for one that’s a little larger than average in the segment? The Hyundai Santa Fe could fit the bill. Indeed, it represents a unique half step toward larger midsize SUVs. And the availability of a hybrid version is another compelling reason to consider it.
The Santa Fe hybrid SUV gets 34 mpg, beating the standard Santa Fe by 9 mpg.
The 1.6-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine paired with the hybrid system delivers 226 horsepower. A six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard on the hybrid SUV.
Santa Fe’s cabin is attractive and nicely arranged with plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
Even the base trim (Blue) is well-equipped. It comes with standard 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and navigation system for a $37, 535 starting MSRP. The SEL Premium adds an upgraded audio system and surround-view camera among the upgrades.
High-end trims verge on luxury.
The top-level Limited trim on our Santa Fe Hybrid SUV was impressive. It had seats and door panels adorned with quilted Nappa leather and a headliner finished in eco-suede. Limited also added power-folding mirrors, a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and an additional adjustment on driver’s seat. Other niceties added to the premium trim included a 115-volt power outlet, rain-sensing wipers, parking sensors and Remote Smart Parking Assist. Adding inland freight and handling, the sticker on our 2023 test car totaled $43,155.
The addition of the Santa Fe Hybrid marked the beginning of Hyundai’s electric vehicle production in the United States.
We had the opportunity to test both the Santa Fe Hybrid SUV and Tucson Plug-in Hybrid SVU And we’re confident that both will help Hyundai hold its own among the competition in America’s most popular non-truck category–the compact SUV segment.
