Santa Fe SUV: A Comprehensive Guide to Hyundai's Popular Midsize SUV
The Hyundai Santa Fe SUV has long been a favorite among midsize SUV buyers, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and advanced technology. Since its debut in 2000, the Santa Fe has evolved into a versatile family vehicle with a reputation for reliability and value. As of 2025, the latest iteration continues to impress with its refined design, spacious interior, and a host of modern features.
This guide explores the Santa Fe SUV in detail, covering its key features, trim levels, performance specifications, and how it compares to competitors in its segment. Whether you're considering a new Santa Fe or simply researching midsize SUVs, this article provides the insights you need to make an informed decision.
Hyundai has positioned the Santa Fe as a compelling alternative to pricier rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. With its competitive pricing, generous warranty, and upscale cabin, the Santa Fe appeals to budget-conscious buyers who don't want to compromise on quality. The 2025 model builds on this legacy with subtle design updates and enhanced tech features.
The Hyundai Santa Fe SUV stands out in the crowded midsize SUV market with its balanced approach to comfort, capability, and technology. As a five-passenger vehicle (with optional third-row seating in previous generations), the Santa Fe prioritizes passenger comfort and cargo versatility. The 2025 model continues this tradition while incorporating Hyundai's latest design language and safety innovations.
Key Features of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe
The latest Santa Fe comes packed with features that cater to modern drivers. Standard equipment includes an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, dual-zone automatic climate control, and Hyundai's SmartSense suite of driver assistance technologies. Higher trims add luxury touches like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
Performance and Powertrain Options
The 2025 Santa Fe offers two engine choices. The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 191 horsepower, while the available turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder generates 281 horsepower. Both engines pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with all-wheel drive available across the lineup. The Santa Fe delivers composed handling and a comfortable ride quality that suits daily commuting and long-distance travel alike.
Safety and Technology
Hyundai equips every Santa Fe with its comprehensive SmartSense safety package, which includes forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist. Available tech features include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, head-up display, and surround-view camera system.
Santa Fe Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2025 Santa Fe is available in five trim levels: SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, and Calligraphy. Pricing starts at $29,485 for the base SE model and climbs to $43,485 for the top-tier Calligraphy trim. Each successive trim adds more luxury and technology features, allowing buyers to choose the level of equipment that best fits their needs and budget.
Comparison with Competitors
| Feature | Hyundai Santa Fe | Toyota Highlander | Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $29,485 | $36,420 | $37,290 |
| Standard HP | 191 | 265 | 280 |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 25/28 | 21/29 | 20/27 |
| Cargo Space (cu ft) | 36.4 | 16 | 18.6 |
| Warranty | 5yr/60,000mi | 3yr/36,000mi | 3yr/36,000mi |
Ownership Experience
Hyundai backs the Santa Fe with one of the best warranties in the industry: 5 years/60,000 miles bumper-to-bumper coverage and 10 years/100,000 miles powertrain protection. This extensive warranty coverage provides peace of mind that few competitors can match. Owners consistently praise the Santa Fe for its comfortable ride, user-friendly technology, and overall value proposition.
For more information, visit the official Hyundai website at www.hyundai.com or consult trusted automotive resources like Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book for professional reviews and pricing data.
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