We like
Impressive hybrid powertrain, impressive fuel economy, tidy dynamics, well equipped, super comfy touring vehicle, roomy cabin, excellent audio, striking matte paint on test model, full size spare wheel

Room for improvement
Exey at $76k +ORC for test model, super annoying ADAS features that default to on, unattractive rear styling, only tows 1650kg, balky crawl speed

Overview

 

HYUNDAI shocked the market from a styling and powertrain perspective with its boxy new Santa Fe large SUV. The new larger model launched mid-2024 arrived with hybrid petrol power only and rear styling only a mother could love.

 

The hugely popular 2.2-litre diesel on the previous models is no more, but a potent 2.5-litre turbo petrol four-cylinder (non-hybrid) is in the pipeline and should be here in the next few months.

 

In the intervening time since launch, the big six- or seven-seater has earned its stripes particularly on the fuel economy and performance fronts while buyers are obviously warming to the look of the rear end judging by the number of new Santa Fes out and about.

 

We were able to take the top-of-the-line Calligraphy model, from $76,000 +ORC, for an extended loan and drive over the Christmas period. We found it to be an excellent touring machine apart from some grumbles associated with ADAS features like the incessantly beeping speed limiter, the gnawing driver attention monitor, the intrusive lane keep assist and the pessimistic front collision brake.

 

All the above, and a whole lot more of what we refer to as DHFs (Driving Hindrance Features) default to on every time the vehicle is restarted…

 

Though polarising, Santa Fe’s styling does tend to grow on you and no criticism can be levelled at the handsome Range Rover-esque front, but the bulky, boxy rear is an acquired taste. The H pattern LED head, tail and indicator lights are really cool.

 

That’s all we will say apart from relocating the taillights further up the body may be beneficial.

 

A side benefit of the test vehicle was its matte bronze duco (Earthy Brass) that caused a stir everywhere it went.

 

Power in both front-wheel drive (base grade only) or all-wheel drive comes from a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder petrol (91RON or E10 unleaded) engine with an integrated 44.2kW electric motor in the six-speed automatic transmission drawing power from a 1.49kWh lithium polymer battery.

 

The hybrid powertrain produces 172kW and 367Nm working “seamlessly” to deliver ample torque where it is most needed, while maximising efficiency and minimising CO2 emissions.

 

Claimed fuel consumption is 5.6 litres per 100km for both 2WD and AWD models. The fuel tank is 67 litres and the braked towing capacity is 1650kg with a downball limit of 100kg.

 

The Calligraphy’s three rows of seats were configured in an optional 2:2:2 layout offering a high level of individual luxury for the six passengers (with extendable leg rests in front). Access is easy to rows one and two and OK in the back thanks to the middle row’s adjustability that places the seat completely out of the way for third row access.

 

The stylish interior is roomy in most dimensions apart from headroom that’s compromised a tad by the dual sunroof.

 

Information is fed to the driver/passenger through a wide curved screen that contains many of the Santa Fe’s controls with additional buttons and dials topping the centre console and dotted along the lower edge of the dash.

 

The test vehicle had cream leather upholstery that was a godsend in summer… and the fronts have heating and ventilating for an added measure of comfort.

 

Standard kit on the Calligraphy includes: Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, extensive electrically assisted front seat adjustment, specific 20-inch wheels, a dual sunroof, head-up display, and a digital camera mirror.

 

In addition, the range topper scores twin 12.3-inch screens, dual wireless phone charging, a power tailgate, keyless entry and push-button start, a full-size spare and LED lighting, heated steering wheel, 12-speaker Bose stereo, UV-C sterilisation tray as well as Hyundai’s BlueLink connected services package and the fully array of Hyundai’s SmartSense safety suite.

 

Calligraphy buyers have a couple of different interior trims to choose from.

 

There’s no ignoring the attractive interior design and luxury materials used inside which are a step up on previous Santa Fe. The cleverly appointed interior offers ample storage throughout and a decent amount of usability to the design.

 

The touchscreen display for climate control is somewhat complex, but otherwise features are relatively easily accessed and facilitated by the array of button or dial controls.

 

Four ISOFIX points (two in the second row, two in the back row) and five top-tethers (one for every rear seat) are included in the package. As are USB-C ports in the back, and B-pillar-mounted vents for the second row while the third row has a dedicated fan controller and vents.

 

Even the boot is useable with three rows in place.

 

Driving Impressions

 

Multiple driving modes seem irrelevant on the new Santa Fe Hybrid as it’s best left in Eco that offers strong performance, excellent fuel economy and a less frenetic drive feel.

 

The weighty SUV gets out of the blocks quickly and continues with impressive acceleration and minimal fuss or noise.

 

The petrol engine becomes audible when pushing hard but once cruise speed is achieved, there’s virtually no noise as the powertrain cycles through its hybrid modes depending on demands.

 

And we’d have to say, with a few reservations, that fitting a conventional six-speed auto instead of a CVT or a DCT was a stroke of genius as on the move it links well with the hybrid powertrain underlined by the fuel economy and available performance. But low speed manoeuvres are balky and need to be performed with care.

 

Hyundai claims 5.6 litres per 100km combined fuel economy for the Santa Fe and on occasion we actually came close to that figure. Overall, the average across some 3000km was 6.2L/100km which is impressive – and made better as it’s on cheaper 91RON or E10 unleaded fuel.

 

It means the Santa Fe Hybrid has a potential range more than 1000km on a tank which cost about $113 at time of writing… Again, fairly impressive.

 

Regenerative braking and torque vectoring boost efficiency and safety.

 

Ride quality is supple and controlled with a hint of sportiness when pushed. It will ultimately understeer, but you’d have to be nuts to drive the Santa Fe like that.

 

Tyre grip is good backed up by quiet running and there’s a full-size spare wheel in the back.

 

Like other dynamic functions, the vehicle’s brakes are up to par appearing to be larger than before with bigger callipers and more bite though with a towing capacity limited to 1650kg, we couldn’t assess the test vehicle with our usual car trailer rig hooked up behind (2000kg all up with a medium size car on board).

 

It has well weighted steering with a decent turning circle even with a longer wheelbase than before.

 

We drove the model as if it was our own in most driving environments including some gravel roads, multi lane motorways, tight inner-city forays, commuting and generally hacking about the suburb all of which fit easily within the Santa Fe’s capabilities.

 

A hidden assist handle that had us stumped for a while is located C-pillar, improves roof access for maximum outdoor functionality (Calligraphy variant).

 

The digital centre mirror and multi adjustable ambient lighting seem mere gimmicks but the powerful Bose audio system is a cracker.

 

We enjoyed our time in the new Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy but suggest buyers needn’t spend so much to access this impressive SUV as the well-equipped lower spec’ models would be as good for general driving even the front wheel drive version.

 

It has more punch than the previous 2.2-litre turbo-diesel, more roll-on acceleration, is quieter, smoother, just as cheap or cheaper on fuel and doesn’t stink up your hands at the servo.

 

Tows less though… which could be a deal breaker but there’s always the 2.5 turbo in the wings if fuel consumption isn’t an issue.