Let's dive deep into the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV 2022! If you're considering a plug-in hybrid SUV, this is one you absolutely need to have on your radar. We're going to cover everything from its performance and fuel efficiency to its interior comfort and tech features. By the end of this review, you'll have a solid understanding of whether the Santa Fe PHEV 2022 is the right fit for your needs. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Performance and Powertrain

The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV 2022 boasts a compelling powertrain that blends efficiency with ample power. Under the hood, you'll find a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is paired with an electric motor. Together, they deliver a combined output of 261 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This setup provides a smooth and responsive driving experience, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The electric motor adds a noticeable boost of torque, making acceleration feel effortless. One of the standout features is the all-electric range. The Santa Fe PHEV can travel up to 30 miles on electric power alone, which is perfect for daily commutes or running errands without using any gasoline. This not only saves you money on fuel but also reduces your carbon footprint. When the battery is depleted, the gasoline engine seamlessly kicks in, and the Santa Fe PHEV operates as a regular hybrid. The transition is smooth and almost imperceptible, ensuring a consistent and comfortable driving experience. The Santa Fe PHEV comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions. This is a significant advantage, especially for those living in areas with snow or rain. The AWD system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear wheels, optimizing grip and control. The six-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned and provides smooth and timely shifts. It complements the powertrain perfectly, contributing to the overall refined driving experience. In terms of performance, the Santa Fe PHEV can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.6 seconds, which is respectable for a vehicle of its size and type. The regenerative braking system helps to recapture energy during deceleration, further enhancing efficiency. This system is also adjustable, allowing you to customize the level of braking force. Overall, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV 2022 offers a well-rounded and efficient powertrain that delivers a satisfying driving experience. The combination of electric power and gasoline engine provides the best of both worlds, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers who still want a capable and versatile SUV.

Fuel Efficiency and Range

Fuel efficiency is a major highlight of the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV 2022, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money at the pump and reduce their environmental impact. As a plug-in hybrid, it offers the flexibility to drive on electric power alone for shorter trips and switch to hybrid mode for longer journeys. The Santa Fe PHEV has an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 76 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) when running in electric and hybrid modes combined. This is significantly higher than traditional gasoline-powered SUVs, which typically achieve around 20-30 MPG. When the battery is fully charged, the Santa Fe PHEV can travel up to 30 miles on electric power alone. This is ideal for daily commutes, grocery runs, and other short trips, allowing you to avoid using gasoline altogether. Once the electric range is depleted, the Santa Fe PHEV operates as a regular hybrid, with the gasoline engine and electric motor working together to maximize fuel efficiency. In hybrid mode, it achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 33 MPG combined. The total range of the Santa Fe PHEV is approximately 440 miles, providing ample range for longer trips without the need to stop frequently for refueling. Charging the battery is simple and convenient. Using a Level 2 (240V) charger, you can fully charge the battery in about 4 hours. This makes it easy to charge overnight at home, ensuring you start each day with a full electric range. If you're on the go, you can also use a standard Level 1 (120V) household outlet, although this will take considerably longer (around 12 hours) to fully charge the battery. The Santa Fe PHEV also features a regenerative braking system, which captures energy during deceleration and uses it to recharge the battery. This helps to extend the electric range and improve overall fuel efficiency. The regenerative braking system is adjustable, allowing you to customize the level of braking force. Some drivers prefer a stronger regenerative braking effect, which can provide a more engaging and efficient driving experience. Overall, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV 2022 excels in fuel efficiency and range, offering a compelling combination of electric and hybrid power. Whether you're looking to reduce your carbon footprint, save money on fuel, or simply enjoy a more efficient driving experience, the Santa Fe PHEV is an excellent choice.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV 2022, you'll immediately notice the attention to detail and the array of comfort and technology features designed to enhance your driving experience. The interior is spacious and well-appointed, with high-quality materials and a modern design aesthetic. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long journeys a breeze. The front seats are available with heating and ventilation, ensuring optimal comfort in any weather. The rear seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom, even for taller passengers. The Santa Fe PHEV also comes with a range of advanced technology features. The infotainment system is user-friendly and intuitive, with a large touchscreen display that provides access to navigation, audio, and vehicle settings. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. The available Harman Kardon premium audio system delivers crisp and clear sound quality, making your favorite music sound even better. Other notable tech features include a wireless charging pad for your smartphone, a head-up display that projects important information onto the windshield, and a digital instrument cluster that provides customizable displays. The Santa Fe PHEV also comes with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The panoramic sunroof adds a touch of luxury and allows natural light to flood the cabin. It's perfect for enjoying scenic drives and creating a more open and airy feel. The cargo area is spacious and versatile, with plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space when needed. Overall, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV 2022 offers a comfortable and technologically advanced interior that enhances the driving experience. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, you'll appreciate the attention to detail and the array of features designed to make your journey more enjoyable.

Trim Levels and Features

The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV 2022 is available in two well-equipped trim levels: SEL Convenience and Limited. Each trim offers a compelling set of features and amenities, catering to different preferences and budgets. The SEL Convenience trim is the base model, but it still comes with a generous array of standard features. These include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, and a hands-free smart liftgate. It also includes a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Moving up to the Limited trim adds even more luxury and convenience. This trim includes leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, a 360-degree surround-view monitor, and a blind-spot view monitor. It also features a Harman Kardon premium audio system and rain-sensing wipers. Both trims come standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions. The AWD system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear wheels, optimizing grip and control. The six-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned and provides smooth and timely shifts. It complements the powertrain perfectly, contributing to the overall refined driving experience. In terms of performance, both trims offer the same powertrain, which consists of a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. Together, they deliver a combined output of 261 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The electric motor adds a noticeable boost of torque, making acceleration feel effortless. The all-electric range is also the same for both trims, at approximately 30 miles. This allows you to drive on electric power alone for shorter trips, reducing your carbon footprint and saving money on fuel. Overall, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV 2022 offers a compelling range of trim levels and features, catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a well-equipped and affordable SUV or a luxurious and feature-rich model, the Santa Fe PHEV has something to offer.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's break down the pros and cons of the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV 2022. Knowing these aspects will help you make an informed decision.

Pros:

• Excellent Fuel Efficiency: The Santa Fe PHEV offers impressive fuel economy, especially when utilizing its electric range. The MPGe rating is significantly higher than traditional gasoline-powered SUVs, saving you money on fuel.
• All-Electric Range: The 30-mile electric range is perfect for daily commutes and short trips, allowing you to drive without using any gasoline.
• Standard All-Wheel Drive: The standard AWD system provides enhanced traction and stability, making it a great choice for those living in areas with inclement weather.
• Comfortable and Spacious Interior: The interior is well-appointed with high-quality materials and offers plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
• Advanced Technology Features: The Santa Fe PHEV comes with a range of advanced technology features, including a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features.

Cons:

• Higher Price Tag: The Santa Fe PHEV has a higher starting price compared to the non-hybrid Santa Fe models.
• Limited Availability: Depending on your location, the Santa Fe PHEV may be difficult to find due to limited production and high demand.
• Charging Time: While convenient, charging the battery can take several hours, especially with a standard Level 1 charger.
• Six-Speed Transmission: Some competitors offer more modern transmissions with more gears, which can improve fuel efficiency and performance.
• Styling: The styling may not appeal to everyone, as it's more conservative compared to some of its rivals.

Final Verdict

The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV 2022 is a compelling option in the plug-in hybrid SUV segment. It offers a great combination of fuel efficiency, electric range, interior comfort, and advanced technology features. While it may have a higher price tag compared to non-hybrid models and limited availability, the benefits it offers make it a worthwhile consideration. If you're looking for a versatile and efficient SUV that can handle daily commutes and long road trips with ease, the Santa Fe PHEV is definitely worth checking out. Its all-wheel-drive system, spacious interior, and comprehensive suite of safety features add to its appeal. Ultimately, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV 2022 stands out as a strong contender, providing a well-rounded package that meets the needs of modern drivers. Consider your priorities and take it for a test drive to see if it's the right fit for you. You won't be disappointed!