By Veeno Dewan
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is a spacious, smooth, and distinct midsize mid-size SUV. Now in its fifth generation it has a completely new look; Square and bolder it looks almost Land Rover like in its premium looks and presence. There is a clever use of the “H ” motif in the shape of the head- and tail lights, and the body-coloured trim bar across the lower fascia, its not at all gimmicky and looks cool actually. The interior is premium, impressive and contemporary, and three rows of seating is standard except on the Calligraphy trim. The handy grab handle hidden in the C-pillar makes accessing the available roof rails and optional accessories such has ski- or bike racks and even a rooftop tent easy.
There is a choice of either gasoline or hybrid powered (HEV) models. We tested the Hybrid version powered by a 1.6L four-cylinder hybrid setup, with 231 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. The XRT and Ultimate Calligraphy trims are powered by a turbocharged 2.5L engine paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission compared to the hybrid’s six-speed conventional gearbox. The XRT has a top towing capacity of 4,500 pounds The other gas models can tow up to 3,500 lb. when properly equipped, while the hybrids have a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.
In terms of equipment, the standard spec is goods as it always is WITH Hyundai. There is a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster in a slick looking curved glass panel dash with an integrated touchscreen infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard on every model. A separate 6.6-inch touchscreen provides access to the climate controls. Two wireless smartphone charging pads and various USB-C ports abound along with an available UV-C sterilization tray to help kill germs on passengers’ phones, wallets, and other personal items!
Base prices for the Santa Fe start at $42,499 for the base Preferred rim, XRT: from $47,999. The Luxury: $50,999 and the Ultimate Calligraphy at $54,799 with: Nappa leather upholstery, a head-up display, ventilated front seats, 21-inch wheels, second-row captain’s chairs, 12-speaker Bose audio and more.
The Santa Fe Hybrid’s interior is above anything else in its class I would say. There is a premium design ethos, and high quality evident everywhere. Hyundai has used eco-friendly materials throughout the Santa Fe Hybrid’s cabin, including sustainable leather upholstery suede stitched leather on the doors, dash, and center armrest. There are some “H” and horizontal design elements, All three rows– have more headroom than any vehicle in this segment the second row with its stadium-style seating and even with the optional panoramic moonroof. The third row is accessed thanks be sliding for ward the second-row seat and folding the seatback. The Santa Fe has 413 litres of cargo space behind the third seat row. Fold down the 50-50 split third-row seats and this increases to 1,148 L of space.
Safety -wise, the Santa Fe arrives as standard with a host of driver-assistance features and optional advanced tech, including an adaptive cruise control system with a lane-centering feature.
We tested the 1.6L turbo hybrid version with 232 hp, 271 lb-ft).The Santa Fe feels confident and capable, with a natural effort to the steering and some welcomed feedback when cornering. Body roll is restrained in common driving scenarios, though noticeable when charging hard into a corner The hybrid is a tad slower than the gas engined model thanks to being heavier. Canadian Santa Fe’s get off-road drive modes in addition to the three drive modes Sport, Eco and Custom, so drivers can select from Snow, Mud and Sand. The steering is light and the brakes firm with good modulation.
In terms of fuel economy, the hybrid models are rated at an average of 6.9 L/100 km (6.8 city, 6.9 highway) The non-hybrid trims have a combined fuel rating of 10.6 L/100 km (12.1 city, 8.8 highway), with the XRT trim rated a bit higher at 10.8 L/100 km (12.2 city, 9.1 highway).
Down sides are few, note the hybrid powertrain is only available in the two entry level trims not the XRT and Calligraphy. And a PHEV version is around but not making its way to Canada at this time. This new, bolder Santa Fe continues to offer a lot of features and value for the dollar, as it has always done, but now it also delivers a bolder , more exciting design, and a premium interior. An excellent buy in this sector – you won’t be disappointed!
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe priced from $42,999 – $54,779.
More info at www.hyundai.ca.
