Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV (2022) Review
If you're in the market for a spacious, family-friendly SUV that balances power, efficiency, and tech features, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV is definitely worth considering. Hyundai has made significant strides in recent years, refining its lineup to deliver vehicles that combine value with premium features, and the Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV is a great example of this progress. With a spacious interior, advanced technology, and the added efficiency of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain, it aims to meet the needs of eco-conscious families looking for a versatile SUV.
In this review, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV, from its design and interior space to its performance and tech offerings, so you can decide if this SUV deserves a spot on your shortlist.
Spacious Interior: Comfort for the Whole Family
The first thing you notice about the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV is its sheer size and spaciousness. With its three-row seating arrangement, this SUV comfortably accommodates up to seven passengers, making it an excellent choice for families. The second row provides generous legroom, even for taller adults, while the third row, as expected in most mid-size SUVs, is better suited for children or shorter trips.
When it comes to cargo space, the Santa Fe shines. With the third row folded down, you get an expansive cargo area that’s perfect for road trips, grocery hauls, or carrying sports equipment. If you need even more room, folding down both the second and third rows reveals a nearly flat loading floor that rivals the cargo space of some larger SUVs. It’s practical, versatile, and provides enough space for just about any adventure.
Whether you’re focused on fuel savings or simply need a versatile family hauler, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV is a strong contender that should be on your list.
Hybrid Powertrain: Performance and Efficiency Combined
The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV is powered by a combination of a gasoline engine and an electric motor, which together deliver a respectable performance for a vehicle of its size. The PHEV powertrain offers both hybrid efficiency and the capability to drive short distances on electric power alone, making it ideal for reducing fuel consumption on daily commutes or errands.
During typical use, the Santa Fe PHEV returns an average of around 38.5 miles per gallon (MPG), depending on driving conditions. This efficiency is commendable, especially for an SUV with seating for seven and the extra weight of a battery pack. While it’s not designed to be a speed demon, the Santa Fe offers enough power to handle highway merges and passing maneuvers comfortably.
The drive itself is smooth and surprisingly nimble for a large SUV. The hybrid setup provides a quiet, refined ride, and multiple drive modes — like Eco, Snow, Sport, and Smart — allow you to adapt the car’s performance to your needs. Whether you’re navigating snowy conditions or simply cruising around town, the Santa Fe feels confident and stable.
Tech and Infotainment: High-Resolution Screens and Intuitive Features
Hyundai has equipped the 2022 Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV with a host of modern tech features, making it one of the more advanced options in its class. The digital dashboard and infotainment system are both high-resolution and easy to use, with a responsive interface that’s shared across many Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis models.
A standout feature is the blind-spot view monitor: activate the turn signal, and a camera feed displays your blind spot directly on the digital gauge cluster. It’s a game-changer for safety and convenience, especially when manoeuvring such a large vehicle. Similarly, the reversing camera offers a clear, high-definition view, making parking and tight turns less stressful.
Other notable tech features include a crisp head-up display, wireless charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a robust sound system that enhances the driving experience. Hyundai has clearly prioritized user-friendly technology, making the Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV both functional and fun to drive.
Interior Quality and Comfort: Premium Touches All Around
Step inside the 2022 Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV, and you’ll find a cabin that feels more upscale than what you might expect from a mid-size family SUV. The materials are high-quality, with soft-touch surfaces, leather upholstery, and thoughtful design details like diamond-pattern stitching on the seats. While it may not rival the most luxurious models in the segment, it’s a solid step up from many mainstream competitors.
The seating is comfortable and supportive, perfect for long drives. Even with the extra weight of the hybrid battery pack, the ride remains smooth and composed. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, ensuring that passengers remain comfortable, whether you’re on a long highway drive or navigating city streets.
One area where Hyundai has taken a slightly different approach is the center console. It’s packed with physical buttons and dials, catering to drivers who prefer tactile controls over touchscreens. While it might feel overwhelming at first glance, the layout is intuitive once you get used to it. If you’re a fan of traditional controls, you’ll likely appreciate this design, as it offers quick access to critical functions without the need to dig through menus.
Competitors and Considerations: How the Santa Fe Stacks Up
The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV competes with other mid-size three-row SUVs, including the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, the Volkswagen Atlas, and the Skoda Kodiaq. Each has its strengths, but the Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV stands out with its combination of hybrid efficiency, tech features, and value.
For those who prioritize fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid might be a strong alternative, while the Volkswagen Atlas offers a bit more cargo space and a sportier driving feel. However, the Santa Fe’s combination of a well-appointed interior, advanced safety features, and versatile seating arrangements make it a compelling option.
Final Verdict: A Strong Contender in the Hybrid SUV Market
Overall, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV is an impressive choice for families looking for a spacious, feature-packed SUV with the added benefit of hybrid efficiency. Its roomy interior, advanced tech, and solid performance make it a standout option in the mid-size hybrid SUV segment.
While it may not have the cachet of some European rivals, Hyundai has come a long way in recent years, proving that it can deliver vehicles that are both innovative and reliable. If you’re shopping for a large, eco-friendly family SUV, the Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV is definitely worth a test drive. It may just surprise you with how much it has to offer.
Whether you’re focused on fuel savings or simply need a versatile family hauler, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate PHEV is a strong contender that should be on your list.
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