The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Is a Fuel Sipping Bargain
If you want to save fuel without switching to electric, then check out the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid. This SUV shouldn’t be flying under the radar. In fact, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid ranks as the best option to buy, that’s between $35,000 to $45,000.
Does the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe have a good fuel economy?
Yes, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid has an excellent fuel economy. It gets an EPA-estimated 36 mph in the city and up to 31 mpg on the highway with all-wheel drive equipped. The gas-powered model gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and up to 28 mpg on the highway.
But the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 41 mpg on the highway and up to 38 mpg on the highway. So if the RAV4 Hybrid saves more fuel, why is the Santa Fe Hybrid considered to be the best hybrid SUV between $35,000 to $45,000 by Consumer Reports?
The 2023 Santa FE HEV starts at $35,910, while the Limited Hybrid model increases the price to $$41,579. The RAV4 Hybrid begins at about $30,725, and the Limited brings costs up to $37,930.
While the RAV4 Hybrid has a lower starting price, the Santa Fe Hybrid may provide more value, comfort, and convenience. For example, AWD is standard across the Santa Fe Hybrid lineup.
What’s so great about the Santa Fe Hybrid?
The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid uses a 1.6-liter inline-four turbo that’s paired with an electric motor to crank out 225 hp and 159 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.3 seconds. This is good for the class.
It has a more comfortable ride than the gas-powered model and easily absorbs impacts. Plus, the interior is pretty quiet at highway speeds. The acoustic laminated windows play a role in reducing wind and road noise.
Plus, the interior is spacious. Taller adults have room to stretch out and relax in the front and back row. You can access up to 36.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat and up to 72.1 cubes total. A power liftgate and power-folding seats come standard.
It has more room than the Honda CR-V Hybrid and the Ford Escape Hybrid, but it’s not too big to maneuver. It still provides an agile performance.
Also, the Santa Fe HEV has an attractive, plush interior. You can opt for upgraded premium leather upholstery, custom ambient lighting, a massive panoramic moonroof, ventilated seats, a suede headliner, remote smart parking assist, and a 360-degree camera.
What are the potential 2023 Santa Fe Hybrid cons to consider?
The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid isn’t exactly sporty. It may look athletic, but it won’t be zooming around curves like the Porsche Cayenne Hybrid. But as a result, the suspension isn’t as stiff.
Critics often complain about the infotainment system being lag or slow to respond. But the system didn’t experience any lag or glitches during our week with the Hyundai Santa Fe. Perhaps the software system received an update to correct its issues.
Also, some folks may find the center stack cluttered with buttons. But they’re clearly labeled and easy to understand. Reportedly, the gear shifter buttons can be tricky to use if you aren’t looking, but typically people pay attention while shifting.
The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid could use an improved fuel economy, but it does better than gas-powered options. Also, it comes loaded with premium features to create a well-rounded near-luxury option.
