The 2025 Hyundai SantaFe Hybrid AWD blends efficiency, power, and luxury. Read our in-depth review on its MPG, performance & off-road capability


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The all-new 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is making waves with its bold design, advanced hybrid tech, and premium interior. But the real question is: Does it live up to the hype?

We got behind the wheel of the top-end Calligraphy AWD model to test its on-road performance, off-road capability, and real-world fuel efficiency. If you're thinking about upgrading your SUV, read on to see if this hybrid powerhouse is the right choice for you!

2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Specification: Under Hood Power

πŸ”Ή Engine: 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder + electric motor
πŸ”Ή Total Power Output: 231 HP | Torque: 271 lb-ft
πŸ”Ή Transmission: 6-speed automatic
πŸ”Ή Fuel Economy: Up to 35 MPG city, 34 MPG highway
πŸ”Ή Battery: 1.49 kWh lithium-ion (not for full EV driving)

βœ… The Santa Fe Hybrid delivers punchy acceleration, and in our tests, 0-60 mph came in around 6.5 seconds—faster than most hybrids in this segment!

πŸš— HTRAC All-Wheel Drive ensures maximum traction in all conditions, while a lockable center differential helps on slippery trails

πŸ›£οΈ On-Road Performance: Smooth & Composed

πŸ‘ Pros:
βœ”οΈ Comfortable ride with great suspension tuning
βœ”οΈ Responsive hybrid system provides brisk acceleration
βœ”οΈ Balanced steering with a natural, linear feel

πŸ‘Ž Cons:
❌ Slightly higher cabin noise than true luxury SUVs
❌ Front seats could use better long-distance support

Verdict? If you want a quiet, fuel-efficient daily driver with plenty of power, the Santa Fe Hybrid delivers.

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🌲 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Off Road Test: Can It Handle the Trails?

The biggest question—is the SantaFe Hybrid really built for off-road adventures?

We took it through Hyundai's Peninsula Proving Grounds, tackling:
βœ… Muddy trails
βœ… Steep, slippery sand hills
βœ… Deep ruts & rough terrain

What we found:
βœ”οΈ AWD System Performs Well: The HTRAC system adjusts torque distribution on the fly.
βœ”οΈ Snow Mode Proved Effective: Helped us maintain traction on slippery surfaces.
❌ Limited Ground Clearance (7 inches): Not ideal for extreme off-roading.

🚨 Final Take: If you're planning serious off-roading, you may want a rugged SUV like a Toyota 4Runner. But for light trails, snow, and gravel roads, the SantaFe Hybrid holds its own.

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πŸ† Calligraphy Trim With Premium Features

βœ… Napa Leather Seats ✨
βœ… 12.3-inch Touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
βœ… Bose 12-Speaker Premium Audio System 🎢
βœ… Panoramic Sunroof & Digital Gauge Cluster
βœ… Head-Up Display & Digital Rearview Mirror

πŸ‘‘ Is It Worth It? If you want a luxury SUV feel without the luxury price tag, the Calligraphy trim is a solid choice.

Should You Buy the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid?

βœ… Who Should Buy It?

βœ”οΈ Fuel-conscious drivers—35 MPG is impressive for an AWD SUV.
βœ”οΈ Families looking for comfort & space—Roomy interior with premium touches.
βœ”οΈ Light off-road adventurers—AWD & Snow Mode make winter drives safer.

❌ Who Should Skip It?

❌ Hardcore off-roaders—Ground clearance limits extreme adventures.
❌ Drivers who need whisper-quiet cabins—Some road noise present.

πŸ”₯ Overall Rating: 8.5/10 – A well-rounded hybrid SUV that blends efficiency, capability, and luxury!

 

FAQ

πŸ’° Estimated Price: Starts around $40,000, with Calligraphy AWD models nearing $50,000.

β›½ EPA Ratings: Up to 35 MPG city, 34 MPG highway.

❄️ Yes! Hyundai’s HTRAC AWD + Snow Mode help optimize traction in icy conditions.

πŸš€ 0-60 mph in around 6.5 seconds, making it quicker than many hybrids in this segment.

βœ”οΈ Yes! If you prioritize fuel efficiency + AWD capability, the hybrid model is a smart pick over the standard gas version.

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