Model tested: 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy AWD
Engine: 1.6-liter turbo I-4 and electric motor
Transmission: 6-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
Horsepower: 231 combined
Torque: 271 lb.-ft.
EPA ratings: 35 mpg/city, 34/highway, 34/combined
Base price: $49,050
As tested: $51,145
Overview: The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is a rugged-looking, three-row hybrid SUV that’s actually more highway-friendly than it looks. Chiseled lines enhance highly accented wheel arches and an imposing grille. The Santa Fe is a carryover from the totally redesigned 2024 iteration. It’s available in three trim levels — SEL, Limited and Calligraphy. We drove the top-model Calligraphy and liked it a lot. Besides its nice ride and spacious interior, it delivered excellent hybrid fuel economy.
Walkaround: The crisp lines have a LEGO-like appeal with a Land Rover hint. The grille is semi-imposing but not overly bulbous like many contemporary pickups. The Calligraphy-exclusive, 20-inch multispoke black wheels have more of a bicycle look than a rugged offroad appeal, in our opinion. The rear view is very symmetrical, with sharp wraparound taillights. Roof rails are substantial. Fit and finish are excellent. The Santa Fe looks rugged but a stepladder isn’t needed, so ingress and egress are good.
Interior: The light gray interior is clean, simple and handsomely styled. The look is more classic comfort than muddy and dirty. The design is upscale and high-tech but not gimmicky. Sustainable napa leather upholstery is used. The headliner is eco-suede. Front seats are excellent, with three-temperature heat and ventilation. A favorite feature is the front-row power thigh support. The steering wheel has two temperature settings. Our Calligraphy edition had second-row captain’s chairs and the third row accommodated three passengers. A dual-pane sunroof greatly brightens the interior. Interior storage is good, with clever double-glove boxes and a console bin with second-row access. Cargo space is spacious and easy to access via the hands-free power liftgate.
Behind the wheel: Power is sufficient but not as great as many other hybrid SUVs. The driving and ride experience is excellent. The mood is more car-like than a jacked-up truck. As a primarily city vehicle, the Santa Fe excels. We didn’t leave paved roads, and 7 inches of ground clearance would dictate caution and wise trail choices. Our best mileage, 31.2 mpg, was a little short of EPA estimates but still very good for such a big, spacious SUV.
Bottom line: We liked driving and living with the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy AWD. It was smooth, roomy, comfortable and loaded with high-tech and safety features. The interior was a highlight both for comfort and style. The road ride was luxurious, even if acceleration was leisurely. The combination of hybrid powertrain and AWD was a big plus.
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