I previously was able to review the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe. I was very impressed by its new redesign and how comfortable it is and now more recently, I got to review the hybrid version. I will say, I much prefer the hybrid version for one obvious reason; it is much more fuel efficient.
Engine/Transmission
The Santa Fe Hybrid has a 1.6L turbo 4-cylinder engine and a 1.49 kWh battery that produces a combined 231 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. It is rated for 6.9 L/100km on a hwy and 6.8 L/100km in a city while I averaged 6.6 L/100km combined. During my week with the hybrid, I drove almost 800 km and on one full tank. Towards the end, I still had about 80 km of range before needing to refuel. This was more city driving than highway driving and at just 6.6 L/100km for a big SUV is something you can’t complain about. The Santa Fe Hybrid has a standard all-wheel drive system and paired with a 6-speed automatic shiftronic transmission.
Handling/Performance
Although it does not drive as enthusiastically as say the Mazda CX-70 for example, it is still enjoyable. It picks up speed quickly like the gas version with no issues and overtaking a vehicle is not a problem once on the go. It is also on the quiet side so the only time you may hear the turbo kick in is when you accelerate harder than normal. At normal speeds, however, you won’t hear that much engine noise as the hybrid kicks in. Cruising around the city is great as it is a smooth ride and the transmission shifts gears smoothly. Driving through corners feels steady but again, not a SUV you would take corners faster than normal.
Comfort
The Santa Fe Hybrid is very spacious for a family. The third-row seats are not as comfortable and not as much space as its competitors, but kids shouldn’t have a big problem sitting there. With the third-row seats folded; you get extra cargo space. The second-row seats are spacious enough even for taller than average adults, so again kids should not have an issue at all. In the front and passenger seats, they are spacious with enough headroom and legroom. I had no issues with back pain or my butt getting numb while sitting for long periods of time. A long drive will not be as tiresome and the seats are well padded. For the second-row seats, you have the option of adjusting the seat back angle for more comfort. With the increased height, it also makes getting in and out of the Santa Fe easier especially for taller individuals.
Interior
Like the gasoline version, the interior is great. I like how spacious it is and just feels great with the materials used throughout the cabin. It is equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen which is straightforward to use and is available with wireless Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto. I really like the center console with the storage space underneath to put a small bag or any small items that you would not want to have out in the open. As mentioned earlier, there is plenty of space in the Santa Fe whether it be space for passengers or space for belongings. If in need of passenger space, you have the option of the third row and if cargo space is needed, you can fold the third row and have about 1,148 L of space; 2,267 L with the second row folded. In the third row, you have A/C only, so it won’t get too hot on those extremely hot days. You also get small cubbies for small belongings and its very simple to get in and out of the third row from just the push of a button on the second-row seats.
Exterior
As I mentioned in my previous review of the gasoline only version, I really like everything about this Santa Fe. It is available with 18 to 21-inch wheels depending on the trim you opt for which adds to that big bulky look. The great thing about it is that even though it looks bulky, it doesn’t feel that bulky to drive.
Pros/Cons
There really isn’t anything I disliked about the Santa Fe Hybrid. It was great to drive as it is easy to maneuver and is comfortable. It is perfect for parents who have kids in multiple activities that require them to drive around town often. Fuel economy is great, so you won’t have to complain about spending so much money on fuel. There is plenty of space and it just looks great. I think it stands out compared to some of its competitors. The 2024 Santa Fe Hybrid Preferred starts at $40,999 CAD ($40,165 USD).
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Gallery
