The new 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe: Specks and Features

Overview

Although it doesn't get as much attention as the other SUVs in Hyundai's lineup, the Santa Fe is still a distinct and appealing option. Between the compact Tucson and three-row Palisade, the Santa Fe has two rows of seating and multiple powertrain options to choose from.

Although the standard 191-hp 2.5-liter inline-four engine is uninspiring, we recommend opting for the277-hp turbo four instead. Both engines are available with front or all wheel drive. Hyundai also offers a226 hp hybrid setup that gets EPA estimated 36 mpg in city driving.

The 2023 Sante Fe comes packed with a 261-horsepower engine, giving it excellent pick-up for an SUV. With a combined 76 MPGe rating, this model is also fuel efficient. Plus, you can travel up to 31 miles on electricity alone! The spacious interior and low base price make the Sante Fe a great option in the mid-size SUV market. However, it falls in the middle of the pack due to its lacklustre base engine.

What's New for 2023?

For 2023, the Sante Fe changes very little from the previous year. The main difference you'll see is with shuffled standard equipment options. For instance, Hyundai removes the SEL Convenience package. Additionally, they change up the look of the front fascia; though this again depends on trim level. Finally, SE models and above now benefit from acoustic-laminated front windows (thus increased sound insulation) as well as puddle lamps near doors that light up the ground.

Standard equipment on the SEL now includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear sunshades, navigation-based adaptive cruise control, and a 10.3-inch center touchscreen. The latter is included with every hybrid model, along with a updated navigation system that accepts over-the-air updates. Finally, the plug-in hybrid comes standard with Hyundai’s Highway Driving Assist semi-autonomous drive mode and the larger touchscreen.

The Limited is our top recommended model, and not simply because it has luxury features such as leather upholstery, rain-sensing windshield wipers, dual-zone climate control and heated/ventilated front seats. Those are all great to have--but the main reason we recommend getting the limited edition is that it's priced lower than any other models available with the same optional 277-hp turbocharged engine. Models without this special feature take forever to get up to cruising speed--and for driving enthusiasts who crave performance, that simply won't do.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Santa Fe comes with your choice of four powertrains, including a hybrid and plug-in-hybrid. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 191 horsepower. If you want more power, you can choose the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that makes 277 horsepower.

The cars come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard front- or optional all-wheel drive. The hybrid model comes with a six-speed automatic, uses a turbocharged 1.6-liter four cylinder and two electric motors to make 226 horsepower, and has all-wheel drive as standard. The plugginhybrid’s powertrain consists of a turbocharged 1.6 -liter four cylinder and an electric motor which together produce 260 horsepower combined..

The XRT model with the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder was slow in our test drive, taking 9.6 seconds to reach 60 mph. If you're looking for a Santa Fe that's quicker, we suggest the turbocharged model instead. In our test drive of a loaded Calligraphy model with the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, we recorded a much faster 6.0-second 60-mph time.

The Santa Fe offers a relaxed and stable ride during everyday duties. Just enough agility and steering feedback is provided to satisfy those who enjoy driving. Those looking for a more vivid driving experience in their SUV should consider the Chevy Blazer or Honda Passport. The gas-fed Santa Fe can tow up to 3500 pounds; whereas, the hybrid and plug-in hybrid can only handle 2000 pounds at most.

 

 

Is Hyundai Santa Fe a reliable car?

The Hyundai Santa Fe Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 2nd out of 26 for midsize SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $515 which means it has lower than average ownership costs.

Is Santa Fe 2022 reliable?

We expect the 2022 Santa Fe will be less reliable than the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2021 models. Select the used car model year to see reported issues with those similar past models.

Are Hyundai's as good as Toyotas?

But there's one big difference. Toyota has been building cars for many years, while Hyundai is new to the industry. That gives the Japanese automaker an advantage in building quality and reliability. Hyundai also has a reputation for its quality engineering, attention to detail, and great value products.