2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Review

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid achieves 36 mpg combined fuel economy and stands out in the midsize SUV segment. You'll spend just $132 monthly on fuel compared to the average SUV's $196, which explains its #5 ranking among peers. On top of that, this seven-seater SUV starts at $37,800 and comes packed with modern dual 12.3-inch displays and advanced safety features.

But the story goes beyond savings. The Santa Fe Hybrid's turbocharged engine delivers 231 horsepower while offering a remarkable 600-mile cruising range. This fifth-generation Santa Fe boasts up to 80 cubic feet of cargo space and sports a fresh redesign for 2024, proving that efficient vehicles can be spacious and stylish.

Ready to see if this hybrid SUV belongs in your driveway? Let's take a closer look at what makes it special in today's competitive market.

2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Performance: Power vs. Efficiency

This hybrid stands out with its conventional six-speed automatic transmission. The setup works better than its competitors and runs smoother without the low-speed hiccups you get in the regular Santa Fe's eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. My test drives showed quick, effortless gear changes that felt more natural than most other hybrids.

The Santa Fe Hybrid shines with impressive EPA ratings of 36 mpg city and 35 mpg highway in front-wheel-drive models. All-wheel-drive versions achieve 35/34 mpg city/highway. These numbers give the hybrid an excellent range that tops 600 miles, which makes it perfect for road trips.

Ground testing shows some interesting differences. EPA estimates promise great efficiency, but real tests often show numbers in the high 20s. The hybrid takes 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph, which is way behind the non-hybrid model's 6.7-second time.

The Santa Fe Hybrid handles corners well and stays stable, though its tall, boxy shape causes some body roll. You get a smooth ride that keeps things steady in most situations, but rough roads can make the cabin a bit bumpy.

Towing capacity hits 2,000 pounds with trailer brakes and 1,650 pounds without. These numbers work fine for small trailers but fall short of the non-hybrid XRT model's 4,500-pound capacity.

The Santa Fe Hybrid ended up delivering a refined driving experience that puts efficiency and comfort first. It's a great pick for families who want good fuel economy without giving up everyday practicality.

Trim Levels and Value Proposition

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid comes in three trim levels, with prices starting at $39,275 for the base SEL and going up to $49,325 for the luxurious Calligraphy. Each version keeps the same efficient powertrain but adds more premium features as you move up the range.

The base SEL trim packs great value with its standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless device charging, and synthetic H-Tex upholstery. This seven-seater doesn't cut corners on the basics. You'll find heated front seats, a hands-free smart liftgate, and detailed safety features right out of the box.

The Limited trim costs $46,175 and brings several upgrades worth the extra investment. Real leather seating, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats make the cabin more comfortable. A 12-speaker Bose premium audio system adds to the experience. The dual-pane panoramic sunroof, 20-inch alloy wheels, and surround-view camera system give this trim a more upscale feel.

The top-tier Calligraphy ($49,325) takes the Santa Fe Hybrid close to luxury territory. It stands out with Nappa leather seats featuring quilted stitching, power-folding second-row captain's chairs that limit seating to six, an eco-suede microfiber headliner, and dual wireless charging pads. The tech package includes a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and an enhanced Highway Driving Assist system.

Fuel economy stays impressive at 35 mpg city and 34 mpg highway with all-wheel drive across the range. A turbocharged 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain delivering 231 horsepower powers all models.

Experts point to the Limited trim as the sweet spot for value. Yes, it is true that while the SEL comes well-equipped, the Limited's leather seats, premium sound system, and extra safety features make it worth the higher price for most buyers. The Calligraphy appeals to buyers wanting the most luxury without stepping into Genesis territory.

How the Santa Fe Hybrid Compares to Rivals

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid stands out as we scrutinize today's hybrid SUV market.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid costs $39,520, while Santa Fe's price starts at $37,800. Santa Fe Hybrid scores better overall (8.8/10 vs 8.6/10) and earns substantially higher critics' ratings (9.1/10 vs 7.5/10) in U.S. News rankings. The Highlander packs more power with 243 horsepower compared to Santa Fe's 231. However, it doesn't deal very well with cargo space and third-row passenger comfort.

The Kia Sorento Hybrid shares Santa Fe's core DNA. Both SUVs use similar 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrains and achieve nearly the same fuel economy (36/36 mpg vs 36/35 mpg). The Sorento costs a bit more at $38,690 and scores better in performance (7.3/10 vs 6.7/10). Yet it lags behind in interior comfort (7/10 vs 8.4/10). Sorento's towing capacity stands out at 4,500 pounds - a thousand pounds more than Santa Fe's 3,500 pounds.

The Honda CR-V Hybrid leads KBB's 2025 best hybrid SUVs list with 4.8/5 stars. This compact SUV shines in fuel efficiency but offers less power (204 hp) and interior space. CR-V's resale value proves stronger, with only 39.6% depreciation after five years compared to Santa Fe's 48.5%.

Safety ratings don't set these SUVs apart - they all earned five-star NHTSA ratings. Santa Fe Hybrid proves its worth through balanced pricing, roomy interior, and detailed features that compete well in its segment.

Conclusion

My extended time with the 2025 Santa Fe Hybrid shows it balances efficiency and practicality well. The 231-horsepower might not sound like much compared to regular SUVs, but the ground benefits shine through in daily use. Families will definitely love the 36 mpg combined fuel economy that saves them serious money at the pump.

The Limited trim gives you the best bang for your buck, though the SEL model packs plenty of features for budget-minded buyers. This hybrid stands out especially when you have competitors like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid. It comes loaded with more standard features and costs less to start.

The driving experience feels refined and comfortable without giving up capability. The 2,000-pound towing limit might not work for everyone, but the roomy interior and 600-mile range make this SUV perfect for family road trips. The Santa Fe Hybrid proves that eco-friendly vehicles can deliver style, space, and functionality without compromise.

FAQs

Q1. What is the starting price for the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid? The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid has a starting price of $37,800 for the base SEL trim, with prices ranging up to $49,650 for the top-tier Calligraphy trim.

Q2. How does the hybrid system in the 2025 Santa Fe work? The Santa Fe Hybrid uses a self-charging system that doesn't require plugging in. It combines a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with an electric motor, charging the battery through regenerative braking and the gasoline engine.

Q3. What is the fuel economy of the 2025 Santa Fe Hybrid? The 2025 Santa Fe Hybrid achieves impressive fuel economy ratings of 36 mpg city and 35 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive models, while all-wheel-drive versions get 35 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.

Q4. How does the Santa Fe Hybrid compare to its competitors? The Santa Fe Hybrid offers competitive pricing, spacious interior, and a comprehensive feature set compared to rivals like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid. It provides a good balance of efficiency, comfort, and value in the midsize SUV segment.

Q5. What is the towing capacity of the 2025 Santa Fe Hybrid? The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid has a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds with trailer brakes and 1,650 pounds without. While modest, this capacity is sufficient for small trailers and light towing needs.