Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV Review: Is It Right For You?
Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) here in the UK. If you're in the market for a spacious, family-friendly SUV that also promises some green credentials, you're probably already considering the Santa Fe PHEV. This review will break down everything you need to know, from its performance and practicality to its real-world fuel economy and whether it lives up to the hype. So, grab a cuppa, and let's get started! We'll cover everything from the car's specs to its driving experience, helping you decide if this PHEV is the perfect fit for your lifestyle. The Santa Fe PHEV has become quite popular, and for good reason. It combines the versatility of an SUV with the fuel-saving potential of a plug-in hybrid system. This means you can enjoy zero-emission driving for shorter trips while having the reassurance of a gasoline engine for longer journeys.
We'll discuss the different trim levels available in the UK, what features you can expect, and how the Santa Fe PHEV stacks up against its rivals, such as the Kia Sorento PHEV and the Volvo XC60 Recharge. We'll also look at the charging process, the electric-only range you can expect, and the overall running costs. Choosing a car is a big decision, so our goal is to give you all the information you need to make an informed choice. We will provide insights into its design, both inside and out, as well as the technology that Hyundai has packed into this SUV. From the infotainment system to the safety features, we'll explore what makes the Santa Fe PHEV a compelling option in the competitive SUV market. We will also compare it with the other competitors. Hyundai has really upped its game in recent years, and the Santa Fe PHEV is a testament to their progress. It’s a stylish, well-equipped, and practical vehicle that appeals to a wide range of drivers. So, let's get into the nitty-gritty of the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV and see if it's the right SUV for you. We'll examine its performance on various road conditions, its comfort levels, and its overall value proposition. By the end of this review, you'll have a clear understanding of the Santa Fe PHEV's strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to decide whether it deserves a spot on your shortlist.
Performance and Driving Experience
Alright, let’s talk about how the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV actually drives. This is where the rubber meets the road, folks! The Santa Fe PHEV combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, resulting in a combined output that delivers a pretty punchy driving experience. You'll find that it has plenty of power for everyday driving, including merging onto motorways and overtaking. The electric motor provides instant torque, which means brisk acceleration from a standstill, and the transition between electric and gasoline power is generally smooth and seamless. No jerky changes here, which is a common concern for PHEVs. The car feels refined and well-mannered in most driving situations. The driving experience is a key factor when you're deciding on a car, and the Santa Fe PHEV doesn’t disappoint.
Hyundai has done a good job of balancing performance and efficiency. You can choose from different driving modes to tailor the experience to your preferences. There's an EV mode for pure electric driving, a hybrid mode that uses both the gasoline engine and the electric motor for optimal efficiency, and a sport mode for a more responsive driving experience. The steering is light and easy, making it maneuverable in city driving and easy to park. The suspension does a decent job of soaking up bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable ride for both the driver and the passengers. However, some reviewers have noted that the ride can feel a bit firm on certain surfaces. The brakes are responsive and provide good stopping power. One of the best aspects of the Santa Fe PHEV is the quietness when driving in electric mode. It's a great experience, especially in urban environments. We will also highlight the fuel economy of this car. The gasoline engine is surprisingly quiet, adding to the overall feeling of refinement. Overall, the Santa Fe PHEV provides a comfortable and engaging driving experience that's well-suited for both city and highway driving. It's not a sports car, of course, but it offers a good balance of performance, efficiency, and comfort. The instant torque of the electric motor makes it feel peppy and responsive, while the gasoline engine provides the necessary range for longer journeys. You won't find yourself wanting for more power in most everyday situations. We will also be exploring the safety features of this car and making a comparison with the other competitors available in the market.
Interior, Comfort, and Practicality
Let’s step inside and see what the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV has to offer in terms of interior space, comfort, and practicality. The first thing you'll notice is the spacious cabin. There’s plenty of room for both front and rear passengers, making it a great option for families. Headroom and legroom are generous, even for taller occupants. The seats are supportive and comfortable, and the materials used throughout the cabin feel high-quality. Hyundai has made a real effort to create a premium feel, and it shows. The design of the dashboard and center console is modern and user-friendly. The infotainment system is intuitive to use, with a large touchscreen display that's easy to see and operate. The Santa Fe PHEV comes standard with a range of features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which means you can easily integrate your smartphone with the car's system. We will also explore the key features that this car offers.
The practicality of the Santa Fe PHEV is another major selling point. The boot space is ample, even with the battery pack located under the rear seats. You’ll have plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or whatever you need to carry. The rear seats can be folded down to expand the cargo area even further, making it easy to accommodate larger items. There are also plenty of storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a large center console bin, door pockets, and various cubbyholes for storing smaller items. The Santa Fe PHEV is a practical SUV.
The overall level of comfort is impressive. The seats are well-padded and supportive, and the ride quality is generally smooth and composed. The cabin is well-insulated from road and wind noise, creating a relaxing atmosphere for both the driver and the passengers. You can easily spend hours in this car without feeling fatigued. The Santa Fe PHEV also comes with a range of features that enhance comfort, such as dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof on higher trim levels. These features contribute to a premium and enjoyable driving experience. The interior design is also worth mentioning. The layout is clean and uncluttered, with a focus on functionality and ease of use. The materials used throughout the cabin feel high-quality, and the overall fit and finish are excellent. Hyundai has done a great job of creating an interior that feels both stylish and practical. This car also has a lot of additional features that make it unique. In terms of practicality, comfort, and interior design, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is a standout. It offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, plenty of storage space, and a range of features that enhance the overall driving experience. Whether you're driving around town or embarking on a long journey, the Santa Fe PHEV provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone on board.
Fuel Economy, Range, and Charging
Now, let's talk about the key selling points of a PHEV: fuel economy, range, and charging. With the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV, you can expect a decent all-electric range, allowing you to complete shorter journeys without using any gasoline. The official WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) range is around 30-35 miles, depending on the trim level and driving conditions. In the real world, you might see a slightly lower range, particularly in colder weather or if you're doing a lot of highway driving. However, 25-30 miles of electric range is still very useful for daily commutes and errands. You can recharge the battery using a standard household outlet (which will take several hours), or you can use a faster wall box charger (which will significantly reduce the charging time). Public charging stations are also available, although the Santa Fe PHEV supports only a limited charging speed. We will cover all of the charging methods for this car.
When it comes to fuel economy, the Santa Fe PHEV is impressive. During the time you're driving in electric mode, you're using no fuel at all, of course. When the gasoline engine kicks in, the car can achieve impressive miles per gallon (MPG) figures, particularly if you're regularly charging the battery and driving in hybrid mode. The official combined MPG figure is quite high, but the actual figure will depend on your driving style, the type of journeys you make, and how often you charge the battery. If you're able to charge your car regularly and predominantly drive short distances in electric mode, you can minimize your fuel consumption and significantly reduce your running costs. This is one of the biggest benefits of owning a PHEV.
The charging process is straightforward. You simply plug the charging cable into the charging port, and the car will start charging. The charging time will depend on the charging source. Using a standard household outlet, it can take several hours to fully charge the battery. With a wall box charger, the charging time is significantly reduced. Public charging stations also provide a convenient way to charge the car when you're away from home. The Santa Fe PHEV's charging port is located on the rear left side of the vehicle. You can easily access the charging port, and the car's infotainment system provides information on the charging status. Overall, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV offers a practical and efficient plug-in hybrid system. The electric range is sufficient for many daily driving needs, and the fuel economy is impressive, especially if you can regularly charge the battery. We'll talk about the running costs of this car. The ability to drive in electric mode also reduces emissions, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
Trim Levels and Features
The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is available in several trim levels in the UK, each offering a different set of features and equipment. The specific trim levels may vary slightly over time, but generally, you can expect to find a range of options, from entry-level models to fully-loaded versions. Let's take a look at the key trim levels. Entry-level models typically come with a good range of standard features, including alloy wheels, LED headlights, a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rearview camera, and a suite of advanced safety features. These models offer excellent value for money and are a great option for those who want a well-equipped SUV without breaking the bank. The mid-range trim levels usually add more premium features, such as larger alloy wheels, upgraded upholstery, heated front seats, and additional driver assistance systems. These trims provide a more luxurious experience while still maintaining a reasonable price.
At the top of the range, you'll find the fully-loaded models, which typically include all the available features and options. These models come with features like a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, a premium sound system, a head-up display, and advanced driver assistance systems. They offer the ultimate in luxury and technology. Some of the features and equipment available in the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV include a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, a wireless smartphone charging pad, a premium sound system, a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, a range of advanced driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. We will also look at the safety features available in the car.
Each trim level has its own unique features and equipment, so it's important to research the specific features available in each trim level before making a decision. Hyundai has a reputation for offering well-equipped vehicles at competitive prices, and the Santa Fe PHEV is no exception. With a range of trim levels to choose from, you can find a Santa Fe PHEV that fits your budget and your needs. The higher trim levels offer a more luxurious and technologically advanced experience, while the entry-level models still provide a great value for money and a comprehensive set of features. When choosing a trim level, consider your budget, your driving needs, and the features that are most important to you. Remember to compare the different trim levels to find the perfect Santa Fe PHEV for your lifestyle.
Rivals and Comparison
When considering the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV, it's important to compare it with its main rivals in the plug-in hybrid SUV segment. This helps you understand how it stacks up in terms of price, performance, features, and overall value. Two of the most direct competitors are the Kia Sorento PHEV and the Volvo XC60 Recharge. Let's compare this with some of the other cars available in the market. The Kia Sorento PHEV is a similar size to the Santa Fe PHEV, and it also offers a spacious and practical interior. It often has a slightly larger all-electric range, and it can be a good choice if you prioritize a longer electric driving distance. The Sorento PHEV is available in several trim levels and offers a range of features. The Volvo XC60 Recharge is another strong contender. It's a premium SUV that offers a stylish design, a luxurious interior, and a high level of safety features. The XC60 Recharge typically has a good all-electric range and delivers a refined driving experience. However, the XC60 Recharge is often more expensive than the Santa Fe PHEV and the Kia Sorento PHEV.
When comparing these models, consider the following factors: Price: The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV often offers a competitive price compared to its rivals, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. We will explore the pricing of the car. Electric Range: The all-electric range is an important consideration. If you regularly drive short distances, a longer electric range can significantly reduce your fuel costs and emissions. Performance: All of these SUVs offer a good level of performance. However, some may offer more power or a sportier driving experience. Features and Equipment: Compare the features and equipment available in each model to see which one meets your needs and preferences. Interior Space and Practicality: If you need a spacious SUV for family use, consider the interior space and practicality of each model. Warranty and Reliability: Consider the warranty and reliability of each model. Both Hyundai and Kia offer long warranties. The Volvo brand is known for offering good reliability. The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV, Kia Sorento PHEV, and Volvo XC60 Recharge are all excellent plug-in hybrid SUVs. The best choice for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Researching and comparing these models carefully will help you make an informed decision. Remember to test drive any car you're considering to get a feel for its driving experience and features. Consider the cost of ownership, including fuel costs, charging costs, and insurance. The best option is to test drive the cars and then make a decision.
Conclusion: Is the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV Right for You?
So, after everything, is the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV the right car for you? Well, that depends! If you’re looking for a spacious, practical, and fuel-efficient SUV with plug-in hybrid capabilities, then it's definitely worth considering. The Santa Fe PHEV offers a comfortable and refined driving experience, a well-appointed interior, and a good all-electric range, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer journeys. We will summarize the pros and cons of the car. The pros of the Santa Fe PHEV are the spacious and practical interior, the comfortable ride, and the generous level of standard equipment. It also has a good all-electric range for a PHEV. The running costs of the car are low, and it is a good car for the environment. The cons are that the charging speed could be faster, and some may find the ride to be a bit firm. The infotainment system, while functional, might not be the most visually exciting one on the market.
If you're looking for a family-friendly SUV with a good combination of performance, efficiency, and practicality, the Santa Fe PHEV is a solid choice. It's also a great option for anyone who wants to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on fuel costs. However, if you prioritize a longer all-electric range or are looking for a more premium experience, you might want to consider the Kia Sorento PHEV or the Volvo XC60 Recharge. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is right for you is to test drive it and compare it with its rivals. Take the time to evaluate your needs and preferences, and you'll be well on your way to making the right choice.
Before making a final decision, consider your daily driving needs, your budget, and the features that are most important to you. The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is a strong contender in the plug-in hybrid SUV segment, and it's a vehicle that's well worth a closer look if you're in the market for a spacious, practical, and fuel-efficient SUV. By now, hopefully, you have a better understanding of what the Santa Fe PHEV offers. Go check it out and see if it's the perfect match for you! Thanks for reading, and happy car hunting!
