What is it?

The Hyundai Santa Fe has been a popular seven-seat SUV since its debut in 2001, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and family-friendly features. Now in its fifth generation, the 2024 Santa Fe introduces a more premium feel, aiming to compete with larger and more expensive SUVs.

The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version sits alongside the standard hybrid, but it adds an electric-only driving mode, offering up to 33 miles of zero-emission range. It competes with models like the Kia Sorento PHEV, Peugeot 5008 PHEV, Volvo XC90 Recharge, and Land Rover Defender PHEV​.

Design and Styling

The Santa Fe’s new design is a bold departure from its predecessor. Hyundai has opted for a boxier shape, giving it a rugged, adventure-ready appearance. The H-pattern daytime running lights and large front grille give it a distinctive look, though the flat rear design may divide opinions.

Hyundai’s head of design, Simon Loasby, stated that the styling was influenced by outdoor adventure trends in Korea. The large tailgate and practical square shape reflect this ethos, prioritizing space and usability over aerodynamics​.

While the shape may not appeal to everyone, the high roofline and large windows improve visibility, making it feel more open and airy inside. It also helps maximize interior space, particularly in the third row​.

Interior and Technology

Hyundai has significantly upgraded the Santa Fe’s interior, focusing on comfort and practicality. The dashboard features a clean, horizontal design, reminiscent of more premium SUVs like the Land Rover Defender.

Key highlights include:

  • 12.3-inch curved infotainment touchscreen, with navigation, over-the-air updates, and smartphone integration.
  • Digital driver’s display, providing clear and customizable information.
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though only on higher trims.
  • Two wireless phone charging pads in top-spec models.
  • Blind Spot View Monitor, which displays live camera footage of the car’s blind spot when indicating (not available on base models).

While the system is packed with modern technology, the infotainment interface can be fiddly, with some small icons and menu structures that require multiple taps to adjust driving aids​.

Material quality is good for its class, with soft-touch plastics, leather upholstery, and sustainable materials like recycled PET fabric and bio-based paint used throughout the cabin​.

How Does It Drive?

The Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid combines a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 261bhp.

Performance figures:

  • 0-62 mph: 9.3 seconds
  • Fuel economy: Up to 161.2mpg (claimed)
  • Electric-only range: Up to 33 miles

While the electric-only range is not class-leading, it is enough for short daily commutes. Real-world driving suggests an electric range of around 25 miles, though cold weather and high-speed driving can reduce this further​.

The Santa Fe PHEV comes with all-wheel drive as standard, which helps in wet or slippery conditions. It also offers driving modes for different terrains, including mud and snow settings, but it remains a road-focused SUV rather than a serious off-roader.

Ride quality is generally comfortable, thanks to its self-levelling suspension. However, at low speeds on rough roads, the ride can feel slightly firm. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to drive despite its size. The braking system includes adjustable regenerative braking, which can be controlled via steering wheel paddles​.

Practicality

One of the Santa Fe’s biggest strengths is its versatile and spacious cabin. It remains one of the few plug-in hybrids that comfortably accommodates seven passengers, though the third-row seats are best suited for children or shorter journeys.

Key practicality features:

  • 621 litres of boot space (with five seats in use).
  • 1,942 litres of total cargo space (with second and third-row seats folded).
  • Four ISOFIX points (including in the third row), making it one of the best SUVs for fitting multiple child seats.
  • Sliding and reclining middle-row seats, offering more flexibility for passengers.
  • Cup holders, USB-C charging points, and climate control in all three rows.

The third-row access is reasonable, with one-touch seat folding to slide the second-row forward. However, returning the seats to their original position requires both hands, which can be inconvenient​.

Despite its practicality, the Santa Fe PHEV has a lower towing capacity than previous generations, with a limit of 1,010kg. This is significantly less than competitors like the Kia Sorento PHEV, which can tow up to 1,500kg​.

Verdict

The Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid is a well-rounded seven-seat SUV, offering a high level of comfort, practicality, and efficiency. It provides a premium feel without the premium price tag of some rivals.

Strengths:

  • Extremely spacious and versatile interior
  • Comfortable ride and refined driving experience
  • Well-equipped with modern technology
  • Quiet and smooth in electric mode

Weaknesses:

  • Electric-only range could be better
  • Infotainment system can be fiddly
  • Towing capacity is disappointing

For families seeking a large, efficient SUV with seven seats, the Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid is a strong contender. However, if you need a longer electric range or better towing capacity, alternatives like the Peugeot 5008 PHEV or Kia Sorento PHEV might be worth considering