Table of Contents
Powertrain and Performance
The Santa Fe Hybrid is powered by a 1.6‑liter turbocharged four‑cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system and a six‑speed automatic transmission. Together, they deliver 231 horsepower and 271 pound‑feet of torque, with standard all‑wheel drive in Canada and optional all‑wheel drive in the U.S. The reviewers noted the power delivery feels smooth and “not jerky at all,” a contrast to the “ECVT” feel of some other hybrids. The combination of a turbocharged engine and electric assistance gives the vehicle a “very satisfying” acceleration that feels more like a conventional gasoline car than a typical hybrid.
During a test drive, the reviewer highlighted the “smooth” acceleration and praised the “good power” that comes from the hybrid system. The vehicle’s tuning was described as “fantastic,” with a “wonderful job keeping it well insulated.” The Santa Fe Hybrid’s performance is comparable to the Tucson, with the reviewer noting that the Santa Fe feels “quite fantastic” and “not feeling a lack of power.”
Interior, Tech, and Comfort
The base trim comes with a 12.3‑inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 4.2‑inch digital driver display, and seven‑passenger seating. Cloth upholstery is standard, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The cabin features a hands‑free smart power liftgate, Sense safety features, and over‑the‑air updates (though not all updates are standard in the U.S.).
Higher trims add leather upholstery, a dual‑panel sunroof, ambient lighting, and a 12‑speaker Bose sound system. The interior layout is praised for its “clean” and “modern” look, with a floating center console that offers ample storage and a wireless charger. The reviewers appreciated the “well‑done” door pockets and the “good leg room and headroom” in the second row, noting that the seats slide and recline for maximum flexibility.
"The Santa Fe Hybrid offers 41.4 4 in of front row legroom and 42.3 in of second front row legroom." – Reviewer
The cabin also includes a column shifter and a matte‑finished trim piece on the dash that adds a subtle pinstripe look. The HVAC controls are touch‑sensitive, but the reviewers found that they require special gloves with rubber tips to operate effectively in cold weather.
Boxy Design and Third‑Row Practicality
Hyundai’s boxy design philosophy is evident in the Santa Fe Hybrid, which the reviewers say “looks like a Land Rover” from the rear and offers great visibility. The “boxy” shape also contributes to a roomy interior and a “smooth” ride, though the suspension can feel a bit firmer over bumps. The vehicle’s 7‑inch ground clearance and LED lighting are standard, and the 18‑inch wheels are available with a 20‑inch tire repair kit.
One of the most debated features is the third‑row seating. The Santa Fe Hybrid offers a 30‑inch legroom in the third row, which is adequate for occasional use. The reviewers noted that the third row is “not practical at all” for everyday use, with seats that are “down 99% of the time.” They compared this to the Palisade, which offers a more spacious third row and a “quasi‑luxury” feel. The Santa Fe’s third row is best suited for “extra people in a pinch,” such as a grandparent visiting or a last‑minute school event.
Despite the limited third‑row space, the Santa Fe Hybrid still provides 14.6 cubic feet of cargo behind the third row and 40.5 cubic feet behind the second row, with an overall cargo capacity of 80 cubic feet. The reviewers emphasized that the vehicle’s “hands‑free smart power liftgate” and “power folding exterior mirrors” add convenience for everyday use.
Pricing, Fuel Economy, and Warranty
In Canada, the base model starts just over $465,000 (including freight, PDI, and fees), while the top Calligraphy trim is under $60,000. In the U.S., the front‑wheel‑drive base starts at just over $36,000, with the top Calligraphy trim under $48,500. All‑wheel drive adds $1,800.
The all‑wheel‑drive version achieves 6.8 L/100 km in city and 6.9 L/100 km on the highway, translating to an impressive 35 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. Towing capacity tops out at 2,000 lb with trailer brakes. Hyundai offers a 5‑year, 100,000‑km (or 60,000‑mi) warranty.
Reviewers highlighted the vehicle’s “very comfortable” ride and praised the power delivery, but suggested improvements such as a bench seat on the top trim and a more refined rear design. They also noted that the Santa Fe’s “boxy” shape and “clumsy” rear styling could be refreshed in future models.
Overall, the Santa Fe Hybrid delivers a blend of efficient power, modern tech, and practical space, making it a compelling choice for families who value a boxy SUV with a hybrid powertrain and a reasonable price point.