The Hyundai Santa Fe has remained a cornerstone of Hyundai’s SUV lineup since its debut in the early 2000s. Over its multiple generations, the Santa Fe has evolved from a rugged utility vehicle into a refined, tech-laden family SUV with both on-road comfort and off-road capabilities. This comprehensive guide explores Hyundai Santa Fe generations, highlighting key design changes, features, and performance improvements. It then provides a practical list of top accessories that enhance the Santa Fe's performance and overall driving experience.
Where is the Hyundai Santa Fe built?
The Hyundai Santa Fe is manufactured in several locations worldwide, depending on the model and market. In the United States, the Santa Fe, including its hybrid variants, is produced at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA) in Montgomery, Alabama. This facility began producing the Santa Fe Hybrid in October 2022. Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions are assembled in South Korea.
Is Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid?
Yes, the Hyundai Santa Fe is available in hybrid configurations. Before discussing when the Santa Fe was released, let’s look at how it has evolved over the years!
Hyundai Santa Fe Generations From Past to Present
Here’s the generational journey of the Hyundai Santa Fe, highlighting key design changes, features, and performance improvements:
Hyundai Santa Fe 1st Generation (2001-2006)
The first-generation Hyundai Santa Fe arrived at a time when compact SUVs were beginning to gain widespread popularity. Introduced for the 2001 model year, it was built on the Sonata platform and offered buyers a unibody chassis with optional all-wheel drive, a rare feature in its segment at the time. The initial engine lineup included a 2.4-liter inline-four producing 149 horsepower and a 2.7-liter V6 offering up to 173 horsepower. These engines were paired with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
Hyundai Santa Fe 2nd Generation (2007-2012)
Hyundai made a strategic leap with the second-generation Santa Fe, transitioning it from compact to midsize. This redesign was evident in its larger dimensions, sleeker exterior design, and improved interior quality. The engine options initially included a 2.7-liter V6 producing 185 horsepower and a more powerful 3.3-liter V6 delivering 242 horsepower. In 2010, Hyundai introduced a new 3.5-liter V6 generating 276 horsepower, which became the top-tier offering. All engines were matched with improved five- or six-speed automatic transmissions, and both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations were available.
Hyundai Santa Fe 3rd Generation (2013-2018)
The third-generation Santa Fe marked a major transformation for Hyundai. Unveiled in 2013, it introduced two distinct models under the Santa Fe name: the two-row Santa Fe Sport and the three-row Santa Fe. This strategic decision allowed Hyundai to appeal to smaller families and those requiring additional passenger capacity. The Santa Fe Sport featured a 2.4-liter inline-four engine producing 190 horsepower, while a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder was available, offering up to 264 horsepower. The larger three-row version was powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine with 290 horsepower. These powertrains were equipped with six-speed automatic transmissions.
This generation also introduced advanced safety features such as lane departure warning and blind-spot detection, upgraded infotainment systems, and premium interior finishes, helping the Santa Fe compete with more established midsize SUV rivals.
Hyundai Santa Fe 4th Generation (2019-2023)
The fourth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe signified a dramatic design evolution. Launched in 2019, it featured Hyundai’s “Sensuous Sportiness” design language, a bold front grille, sharp LED daytime running lights, and a sculpted profile. Under the hood, Hyundai initially offered a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 185 horsepower and a 2.0-liter turbocharged variant generating 235 horsepower. A facelift in 2021 brought an even more advanced platform, a new 2.5-liter turbocharged engine delivering 277 horsepower, and the introduction of hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants.
Furthermore, the Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid model combines a 1.6L turbocharged engine with an electric motor to generate 266 horsepower. The plug-in hybrid offered 261 horsepower and approximately 30 miles of all-electric range. Safety also saw major improvements, including Hyundai SmartSense technologies such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision avoidance, and lane-following assistance.
Hyundai Santa Fe 5th Generation (2024-Present)
The fifth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe departs from the curvilinear shapes of its previous models and embraces a new boxy, upright silhouette inspired by utility and adventure. The 2024 Santa Fe offered standard three-row seating and is available in front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, a 2.5L turbocharged engine, and a 1.6L hybrid option. Now, let’s explore the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe!
What are the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Specs?
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Engine
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offers multiple powertrain options:
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2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4: Delivers 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission
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1.6L Turbocharged Hybrid: Combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to produce a combined output of 230 horsepower
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1.6L Turbocharged Plug-in Hybrid: Offers a combined output of 265 horsepower and an electric-only range of approximately 58km.
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe MPG
Fuel efficiency varies by powertrain and drivetrain configurations.
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe gasoline models:
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Front-wheel drive (FWD): 24 mpg combined (20 city/29 highway)
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All-wheel drive (AWD): 23 mpg combined (20 city/28 highway)
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XRT trim (AWD): 22 mpg combined (19 city/26 highway)
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid models:
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Front-wheel drive (FWD): 36 mpg combined (36 city/35 highway)
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All-wheel drive (AWD): 34 mpg combined (35 city/34 highway)
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Interior
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a spacious and tech-forward cabin:
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Seating: Standard three-row seating accommodates up to seven passengers.
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Displays: Dual 12.3-inch screens serve as the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system.
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Comfort: Features include heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, dual automatic temperature control, and customizable ambient lighting.
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Connectivity: Equipped with Hyundai Digital Key 2, allowing smartphone-based vehicle access, and multiple USB-C ports for device charging.
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Exterior
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe exterior offers a strong, athletic profile and an all-new boxy design, commanding attention with a longer wheelbase, raised roofline, and muscular fenders. At the front, the wide cascading grille is flanked by distinctive H-shaped LED headlights and daytime running lights, giving it a futuristic and instantly recognizable face. The rear follows suit with matching H-shaped LED taillights set lower on the tailgate for a wider, more grounded look. Key features include available 21-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, roof rails, flush-type door handles, and an enlarged tailgate opening for easier cargo access.
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Towing Capacity
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offers varying towing capabilities based on its trim levels and drivetrain configurations:
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Standard Towing Capacity: Most Hyundai Santa Fe trim levels, including SE, SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy, can tow up to 3,500 pounds when equipped with trailer brakes.
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Without Trailer Brakes: All Hyundai Santa Fe trim levels have a maximum towing capacity of 1,650 pounds.
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XRT Trim: Specifically designed for enhanced towing, the Hyundai Santa Fe XRT trim with HTRAC all-wheel drive can tow up to 4,500 pounds when equipped with trailer brakes.
Now, let’s explore all of the Hyundai Santa Fe trim levels!
What are the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Trim Levels and Pricing?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is available in five trim levels: SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, and Calligraphy. Each offers a unique blend of features and pricing to cater to a variety of preferences and needs. All trims come standard with a turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available across most trims.
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE
The Hyundai Santa Fe SE trim is the entry point into the lineup, featuring 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a hands-free power liftgate, and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard safety features include forward collision mitigation, blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and front and rear parking sensors. The SE offers seating for up to seven passengers.
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2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE Price: Starting at $34,300
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL
Building on the SE’s foundation, the Hyundai Santa Fe SEL adds synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and the curved panoramic display that integrates a 12.3-inch digital cluster with the 12.3-inch infotainment screen. It also includes a Hyundai Digital Key for smartphone-based vehicle access and a wireless smartphone charging pad. Also, the SEL trim offers a 1.6L turbocharged hybrid engine with 231 horsepower.
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2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL Price: Starting at $36,800
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT
The Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is designed for adventure and ruggedness. It stands out with a more aggressive, off-road-inspired look that includes dark exterior accents, unique 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, and a raised ground clearance of 1.3 inches. The XRT trim also comes standard with all-wheel drive, navigation, a sunroof, and a 110-volt household-style power outlet in the rear cargo area, which is great for camping or outdoor utility. However, it is only available with the 2.5L gas engine; that is, no hybrid version.
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2025 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT Price: Starting at $40,950
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited
The Hyundai Santa Fe Limited moves firmly into premium territory. It includes all SEL features and enhances them with genuine leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a power passenger seat, driver memory settings, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof. For tech, it brings in a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a surround sound-view camera system, and a blind-spot view monitor. Also, the Limited trim is available with both the gas and hybrid powertrains.
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2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited Price: Starting at $43,700
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy
At the top of the lineup is the Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy; a more luxurious trim adds a suite of high-end materials and technology. It rides on 21-inch alloy wheels and includes premium Nappa leather upholstery with quilted stitching, a suede headliner, ambient interior lighting, and a digital rearview mirror. It also features power-folding second-row captain’s chairs for six-passenger seating, a head-up display, dual wireless phone chargers, and the most advanced version of Hyundai’s Highway Driving Assist. Like the Limited, the Calligraphy is also available with both the gas engine and the hybrid powertrain.
- 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy Price: Starting at $46,850
Is the Hyundai Santa Fe a good car?
Yes, the Hyundai Santa Fe is generally regarded as a good midsize SUV. But, as you know, better is always possible! How? No matter which model year of the Hyundai Santa Fe you own or plan to buy, you can enhance your vehicle’s performance, comfort, and utility with the right accessories or aftermarket parts. Now, let’s explore the best Hyundai Santa Fe accessories on the market!
What are the best Hyundai Santa Fe Accessories?
There are many different car accessories and aftermarket parts designed to improve functionality, comfort, style, or performance. Here are some of the best Hyundai Santa Fe accessories:
All-weather Floor Mats
If you want to protect your vehicle’s interior from dirt, mud, and spills with durable all-weather floor mats. These mats are designed to fit the Santa Fe’s floor contours precisely, ensuring maximum coverage and protection. They are easy to clean and maintain, making them ideal for all seasons. Whether you’re dealing with harsh winters, muddy trails, or everyday messes, all-weather floor mats are a practical car accessory that contributes to the overall upkeep of your vehicle’s interior.
Running Boards
Running boards are wide, flat platforms that span the length of your vehicle’s lower side. They provide a stable, full-length step surface, improving accessibility, especially for children, elderly passengers, or those with limited mobility. Running boards also help protect the vehicle’s body from dirt, mud, and road debris, all while maintaining a sleek, integrated look. If you use your Santa Fe mainly for daily driving, errands, or transporting family, running boards may be a comfortable car accessory for you.
Side Steps
Side steps are narrower and more rugged in design. Often tubular and fitted with designated step pads, they offer a sportier appearance and can be mounted lower, which is helpful for lifted vehicles. Side steps also provide off-road protection, deflecting debris and adding a tougher, more adventurous profile. So, while running boards focus on accessibility and all-around protection, side steps focus on style and rugged functionality, better suited for active outdoor activities and drivers seeking a more aggressive visual upgrade.
Dash Cam
In an era where road incidents can occur without warning, a dash cam serves as a silent, unbiased witness. Mounted discreetly on the windshield, a high-quality dash cam continuously records your journey, capturing crucial footage that can be invaluable in an accident, dispute, or insurance claim. Many modern dash cams also offer loop recording, G-sensor collision detection, night vision, and GPS tracking. Some models can even continue recording while the vehicle is parked, providing surveillance against theft or damage.
Tow Hitch
A tow hitch is a versatile addition that significantly broadens the Hyundai Santa Fe’s capabilities. Whether you wish to tow a small trailer, mount a bike rack, or add a rear cargo platform, a properly installed tow hitch makes it possible. The Santa Fe, when properly equipped, can tow up to 3,500 pounds—sufficient for light recreational use and weekend travel needs. However, it is essential to ensure the hitch is compatible with the vehicle’s towing capacity and installed to the manufacturer's specifications.
Throttle Response Controller
One of the most functional and practical car mods is a throttle response controller. It is designed to eliminate throttle lag from your gas pedal. If you want to enhance your vehicle’s throttle response, keep reading to learn the best throttle response controller for your Hyundai Santa Fe!
Improve the Hyundai Santa Fe Performance with Pedal Commander
Ever feel like your Hyundai Santa Fe hesitates when you hit the gas? That’s due to throttle lag, which is a common issue in modern vehicles with electronic throttle systems. As the most practical and versatile throttle response controller, Pedal Commander eliminates throttle lag from your accelerator pedal by offering a smart, plug-and-play solution that delivers immediate results. Unlike traditional performance upgrades requiring invasive modifications, Pedal Commander installs in minutes without professional help, any complex tools, or voiding the car warranty.
With Pedal Commander’s four customizable modes—Eco, City, Sport, and Sport+—each offering nine sensitivity levels, you can tailor your vehicle's throttle response to match your driving style and conditions. You can also operate it from your smartphone with the Pedal Commander app equipped with advanced Bluetooth connectivity. Whether aiming for fuel efficiency on long drives or craving instant acceleration for city cruising, the Pedal Commander delivers.
Moreover, Pedal Commander’s Anti-Theft feature adds extra security to your car. When turned on, this feature locks out the gas pedal so no one can use the vehicle without permission. You can control and monitor the anti-theft mode via the Pedal Commander app. Enjoy this feature for the first 14 days FOR FREE, then easily subscribe through the Pedal Commander mobile app and choose from two subscription plans: $0.99 per month or $9.99 per year—cheaper than a gas station snack!
