Hyundai updated its entire crossover and SUV lineup. Palisade is an all-new model, Tucson hit the fourth generation, and Santa Fe was redesigned. Having this in mind, you can bet that only minor changes could happen on the upcoming 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe. This is not the most popular class in the market, so the updates are not so frequent. Still, with the fresh look, Santa Fe still has a lot of things to offer.
What’s missing in the lineup? A hybrid system. Until this happens, the power for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe comes from a 2.5-liter engine. The SUV used a V6 in the past, but Hyundai did a few changes in the lineup. The Santa Fe is now a mid-size two-row SUV, positioned between compact Tucson and three-row Palisade. The expansion is not happening only here, since the Korean company launched the premium brand – Genesis.
2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Engine Specs
Under the bonnet of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. System allows the powertrain to create 190 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. Well, you could expect more from a model in this class. Santa Fe makes it up a bit with great gas mileage. The engine is paired with an eight-speed transmission that sends power to front wheels. This configuration is pretty efficient, with 25/28 mpg. If you opt for an all-wheel drive, it consumes 10 percent more fuel.
Optionally, a turbocharged version of the engine is available. In this case, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe can produce 280 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The same transmission is mated to the engine, but the consumption is significantly higher – 22 mpg in city, while AWD is even better than for the naturally aspirated system. Both setups make the SUV tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Which 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is the Best?
Five trim levels are available for the SUV. The base version is SE, and it comes with LED headlights, an 8-inch touchscreen, and stain-resistant seats. The SEL is the next package in the hierarchy and you are getting a blind-spot monitor, keyless entry, power-adjustable driver’s bucket, heated front seats, and wireless charging. Not a bad features list for less than $2,000. The SEL unlocks the Convenience package and some cool options. For example, there are hands-free tailgate, noise-reducing system, zonal climate control, and power-folding rear seats. Premium package adds some high-end options, such as panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, Harman Kardon sound system, larger infotainment screen, and lane-keep feature.
The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is a relatively new member of the lineup. This one will be easy to recognize thanks to the exterior modifications. Everything is darker, and the package uses a special set of 18-inch wheels. Side steps and cross rails are also there. The Limited edition includes all the options from the Convenience and Premium packages. There are still a few things to add, such as turbocharged engine, ventilated seats, heated rear rows, and driver’s seat memory settings. Parking is easier thanks to the automatic system and surround-view camera. The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy is a luxury package with premium materials and unique package of equipment.
Colors
All trim levels are available in seven color choices. Hyundai is not offering exclusive offers for certain packages, and there are no premium options that buyers have to pay. Calypso Red is already a well-known Hyundai shade. There are also those options: Portofino Gray, Quartz White, Stormy Sea, Twilight Black, Hampton Gray and Shimmering Silver.
2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
One of the changes we are still expecting for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is a hybrid engine. However, there are a few pros and cons. For example, there are no too many mid-size two-row SUVs with such setups. On the other hand, hybrids are pretty popular in the three-row SUVs market. Tucson is now available with the electrically-supported engine to get much better gas mileage. Still, there are no official updates about its larger sibling.
Pricing
The MSRP of the base configuration is $29,000. Compared to some other vehicles of the same size, this seems like a bargain. But, have in mind you are getting a four-cylinder engine with 190 hp. For example, Honda Passport is using a V6 mill. That is the main reason why it costs $5,000 more. If you want a more potent turbo-four engine, the Limited package delivers it for $40k, or Calligraphy for $44,000. Now the offer doesn’t seem so special. Again, here you are getting much more options than the base Passport can offer. SEL is a mid-range version with a price tag of $30,000 and the XTR adds $3,000.