Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Review: Why It’s Perfect For Big Families

Although I didn’t jump in the Hyundai Santa Fe SUV to head out West, I did have to travel East to Canterbury to become a removal man for the day when my nephew moved from University digs into a flat of his own. Putting the vehicle through its paces, I also utilised the gargantuan internal carrying space to transport a multitude of parts and products to renovate my house.

While some may take an SUV to a motor circuit to test drive it, I prefer trying to replicate the conditions that a vehicle is specifically designed for. Tens of thousands of people experience the two situations mentioned above, and in most cases, they won’t have a vehicle that can cope. Enter the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid - a car built to excel in daily tasks and more. 

The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid has two engine choices: regular and plug-in hybrid. They both have a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder with 158bhp and an electric motor in the six-speed automatic gearbox (a 58bhp unit in the hybrid, 90bhp in the PHEV). Admittedly, the performance isn’t going to blow you away, but you can push it along at a reasonable rate when required. 

In comparison to the previous model, Hyundai has extended the length of the Santa Fe to provide greater interior space. In terms of the design, the vehicle also looks much chunkier with the addition of bolder, more angular features. 

As for the interiors, the vehicle boasts all of the features you’d expect in a modern car. Hyundai makes the Santa Fe look luxurious, and it certainly feels like it. Standout features include two curved 12.3-inch screens (a driver display and a central touchscreen), a head-up display, and physical controls for infotainment shortcuts. 

The seats, meanwhile, are exceptionally comfortable. Those in the front are widely adjustable with both heating and memory functions, a wireless phone charger, numerous charging ports, two gloveboxes (complete with a shelf), and ample storage space under the centre console. Rear passengers also get an extra drawer, as well as armrest storage that can be opened from the front and back seats, while third-row passengers are treated to cupholders, additional charging ports, and an air vent with fan control. For those only needing five seats, the third row can be stashed away, resulting in a vast boot space. It’s this attention to detail that ensures all passengers have plenty of space and never feel cramped or squashed. 

When setting off, the Hyundai Santa Fe starts using the electric motor, but the petrol engine quickly cuts in to boost performance. Once on the move, you may find the suspension a tad soft as it floats over bumps and rolls in the corners, but you can push it hard into a twisty thanks to the excellent grip. Even though it’s a big seven-seat car, the Santa Fe offers a fun driving experience that is as rewarding as it is practical. 

Elsewhere, the driving position is lovely, while the high view allows superb vision all around the car. Competition comes from Peugeot’s 5008, Skoda’s Kodiaq and the Nissan X-Trail, but the Hyundai Santa Fe holds up against all of these. What’s more, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid has reasonable fuel economy, at a stated 37.6mpg, and a full tank range of 554 miles, making it perfect for European road trips. 

In short, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid expertly balances practicality and luxury. When you combine these elements with the joyful driving experience, you have a vehicle that caters to both the driver and passengers. Its seven-seat versatility makes it perfect for larger families requiring the utility of an MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) without the van-like aesthetics. 

Starting price, £43,800.