2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

From low-cost sedans to three-row EV SUVs, Hyundai has a model for almost every kind of customer. Most new Hyundai vehicles are stylish, functional, and competitively priced, but the brand overall ranks around the middle in Consumer Reports’ Reliability and Owner Satisfaction ratings. Individual models and years vary widely, with some standouts and a few laggards. The core Hyundai lineup includes low-cost subcompacts like the Elantra, and midsized sedans like the Sonata. SUVs include the subcompact Kona and compact Tucson, plus the midsize Santa Fe and larger Palisade, both of which offer three-row seating. Many models are available as hybrids or plug-in hybrids. In our testing, most Hyundai models benefit from a hybrid drivetrain, which adds power and smoothness in addition to improving fuel economy. Hyundai’s EVs are some of the best values among electric cars. The Ioniq models are high-tech, well designed, and can charge quite rapidly at public DC fast charging stations.

The midsized Santa Fe underwent an extensive freshening for 2021 with new engines, interior changes and the availability of a hybrid version. The Santa Fe fits above the Tucson and below the larger, three-row Palisade. The standard 191-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder is a bit weak and noisy. The optional 2.5-liter turbo is much more powerful but is mated to a dual-clutch automatic that has some low-speed vibrations. A hybrid version comes with a 1.6-liter turbo engine and got 30 mpg overall in our tests. We think it's the best version to get. It also rides more comfortably than the non-hybrid Santa Fe. The cabin is roomy with a generous rear seat and cargo space. The interior is stylish but the center console is a sea of buttons, and the push-button gear selector is tricky to use without looking. FCW and AEB with pedestrian detection are standard. BSW and RCTW are standard on all trims starting with the 2022 models. A 261-hp plug-in hybrid with 30 miles of electric range and a new, rugged exterior styling XRT trim are new for 2022.