When mentioning the name "Santa Fe," car enthusiasts worldwide recognize it as Hyundai's flagship model for over 25 years. However, this return is not just a simple facelift. Hyundai has decided to discard its old image and replace it with cutting-edge modernity, making one think it's a vehicle from the Star Wars universe. The design has shifted from a rugged off-road vehicle of the past to a 6-seater family SUV (with separate seats). The design emphasizes boxy lines that convey robustness, with sharp edges reflecting luxury. This is validated by the 2025 Car of the Year and Family Values Award from Carwow. It is a versatile SUV that meets the real needs of modern families.
The Hyundai Santa Fe is one of the brand's key models, having been on roads worldwide for over 25 years. Over this long period, Hyundai has evolved the Santa Fe from a heavy-duty off-road vehicle into a family SUV. The latest 2025 model (launched in America in 2023) incorporates a full Star Wars-inspired style for a unique difference, improving the previously dull SUV's appearance. The Santa Fe's dynamic tuning is well-balanced, delivering excellent driving for its price. Its versatile interior design and 1.6-liter turbo petrol engine paired with a fuel-efficient hybrid system come in two trims: Exclusive priced at 1,599,000 baht and the tested Prestige at 1,749,000 baht. It comes with a 5-year or 150,000 km vehicle warranty and an 8-year or 160,000 km hybrid battery warranty, supported by after-sales service through 35 dealerships.
The Hyundai all-new SANTA FE Hybrid is available in three trim levels.
Exclusive (2WD) priced at 1,599,000 baht.
Prestige (2WD) priced at 1,749,000 baht.
New Inspiration (4WD) priced at 1,799,000 baht.
The return of the fifth-generation Hyundai SANTA FE is more than a facelift; it is a "revolution" in design proving Hyundai is the boldest Asian brand today. This SUV transitions from rounded shapes to a futuristic Retro-Modern style, making it instantly recognizable as a Santa Fe from a distance.
The exterior design showcases the intriguing charm of the boxy SUV (Boxy is Back!). Hyundai employs sharp and straightforward lines featuring the new Signature H daytime running lights (DRL), uniquely shaped in an H pattern, complementing a seamless grille. The body exudes robustness with sharp side lines, black air vents, and trim around the vehicle that give it a powerful yet luxurious look, resembling a mid-size Range Rover that is both refined and aggressive in stance and color.
There was some controversy over the taillight design, which was intentionally placed low by the design team, potentially displeasing some. The most debated point during the launch was the low position of the taillights. Simon Loasby, Hyundai's head of design, explained that this placement reduces glare for drivers behind and frees up the upper tailgate area to maximize multipurpose usability.
A remarkable figure is the drag coefficient of just 0.296, which seems contradictory given the boxy shape. Normally, such shapes have high air resistance, but Hyundai's extensive engineering achieved this low drag coefficient.
Why is this figure important? Firstly, better aerodynamics means improved energy efficiency as the car flows smoothly through the air, causing the engine and hybrid system to work less. The coefficient also contributes to cabin noise reduction. This quietness is rare in vehicles at the 1.7 million baht price point, where wind and tire noise typically become noticeable at speeds of 90–100 km/h. The Santa Fe cleverly minimizes wind noise at high speeds, with front air intakes that automatically open and close based on cooling needs, sealing tightly when not required. This aerodynamic design also improves stability, keeping the large, tall body steady by slicing through the air efficiently.
The new SANTA FE represents a meeting point between retro beauty and futuristic modernity. While some may dislike the rear design, from an engineering perspective, achieving such aerodynamic efficiency in a boxy SUV is impressive, showing Hyundai's significant progress in crafting a versatile family SUV.
Simon Loasby shared that the design concept for the new Santa Fe arose after the COVID-19 pandemic when people in Korea increasingly used cars for short family adventures due to international travel restrictions. The design team aimed to blend daily commuting and weekend adventure vehicles with a cyberpunk aesthetic and practical, more convenient interiors. Hyundai Santa Fe meets nearly all requirements for a large family SUV, featuring a striking boxy body that maintains Hyundai’s signature design, like the Ioniq 5, while being truly functional. The squared rear tailgate adds interior space, and LED lighting around the vehicle enhances its futuristic style.
The dimensions of the Hyundai Santa Fe 2025 (Prestige model) are: length 4,830 mm, width 1,900 mm, height 1,770 mm (including roof rails), and wheelbase 2,815 mm. It is the longest body in the Santa Fe lineup, accommodating a third-row seat. Alloy wheels measure 18 inches, fitted with Kumho Ecsta PS71 tires sized 235/60R18 107V.
The Prestige trim starts at 1,749,000 baht and includes comprehensive features such as safety equipment, navigation system with adaptive speed control, over-the-air infotainment updates, rearview camera, power tailgate, heated front seats, one wireless charging pad, upgraded audio system, 360-degree blind-spot monitoring, highway driving assist, organized storage compartments on the passenger dashboard, six seats with second-row captain’s chairs adjustable electrically, and ample space. Comfort is a key focus for this three-row SUV, and Santa Fe performs well with spacious second-row captain seats and a reasonably sized third row suitable for children, plus rear cargo space.
The Hyundai Santa Fe sold in Thailand is imported from Vietnam and is not an economy car. It is clearly more expensive than Chinese electric vehicles or diesel PPVs. However, with its larger size and excellent hybrid engine performance, Santa Fe offers driving dynamics comparable to a Volvo XC90 or BMW X3 in some situations but at a much lower price. Hyundai has finely tuned the suspension and steering feel in the new Santa Fe. The interior is luxuriously appointed yet practical and comfortable. The climate control system is separated from the screen with intuitive buttons and switches. Mirror adjustment remains manual rather than integrated into the touchscreen. The electric driver’s seat offers good seating positions and comfort with ventilated seats suited for long trips. The steering wheel is thick and comfortable, with sturdy buttons. The gear selector is a rotary knob on the right side of the steering column, similar to Mercedes-Benz, easy to use but requiring some initial familiarization, after which the convenience becomes appreciated.
The 12.3-inch curved dual-screen houses the driver’s instrument cluster and infotainment system. The dashboard is simple and customizable with two display modes for the gauges. However, the infotainment system is not very user-friendly due to numerous menus and illogical option layouts, making operation somewhat complicated. Almost all Hyundai models, including Kia and Genesis, use the same system but compensate with large control buttons for quicker access. Storage space is abundant, comparable to a roof compartment, including appropriately sized front door pockets larger than they appear in photos, a large under-center console storage, and a sizable center armrest compartment. A wireless phone charger is integrated into the center console. Small details, such as an upper console storage tray for passengers, a compartment beneath the wireless charger for cable management, and an armrest storage accessible from both front and rear seats, enhance interior convenience.
The rear passenger seats offer generous space. The second row looks luxurious and spacious with electric adjustment, two cup holders, large storage compartments, and charging ports. There is ample space for adults sitting behind the driver, and the design facilitates easy access to the third row via electrically adjustable second-row seats. Adults can comfortably sit in the third row with sufficient headroom, cup holders, and charging ports. Cargo space behind the third row is limited unless the seats are folded. The hybrid model offers 628 liters of cargo space with seats up, expanding to 1,949 liters when folded.
The front seats of the Santa Fe are large and comfortable, with various adjustable positions for driver ergonomics. The spacious storage is impressive, featuring large door pockets, practical glove compartments, and large cup holders including a center console that can be opened from the middle row, very useful. The gear lever protrudes from the steering column, freeing up center space for two smartphone holders with a comfortable grip; one includes a standard wireless charger, both available in the top trim.
Rear passenger space is ample with 60:40 split folding seats that slide and recline, suitable for adults. Although the middle seat is slightly higher and narrower than the outer two, it remains adequately spacious. A flat floor offers comfortable legroom for long trips. Rear passengers have USB-C ports on each front seatback, hooks to hang bags, two cup holders per door, and large door pockets accommodating water bottles. Folding down the center armrest adds two more cup holders. Accessing the third row is convenient via a button on the middle row shoulder that folds the seat forward automatically. The third row provides sufficient legroom for adults if the second-row seats are slid forward once or twice. The seat bases are relatively low, making knees sit high, which may be uncomfortable for long trips. Third-row passengers also enjoy air conditioning controls, four cup holders, and USB-C ports.
The previous Santa Fe's interior was robust, durable, and functional but lacked excitement. The new model’s dashboard features a large curved dual display reminiscent of the BMW X5, looking attractive and user-friendly with simple menus, bright and responsive screens, and customizable shortcut buttons. Certain driver aids can be quickly disabled if desired. Below the dashboard lies the climate control panel, allowing easy operation of seat heating and air conditioning without navigating touchscreens. The modern climate control design looks sleek, though the all-black cabin feels somewhat somber and bland. The finish quality is good, with gear switches, buttons, and brushed aluminum trim conveying a premium feel. Doors and windows close solidly and quietly. Windshield wipers operate silently without squeaks or vibrations.
Under the hood of the new SANTA FE is a well-matched 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine paired with the latest hybrid system featuring a small battery and an assist motor. The result is responsive acceleration combined with fuel efficiency of about 14 km per liter, comparable to a BMW X5. It suits both city driving and long family trips.
The hybrid powertrain uses a 1.6-liter gasoline engine with Adaptive Regenerative Braking, which adjusts braking force based on the distance to the car ahead. It employs a 6-speed automatic transmission instead of the common CVT in hybrids, providing more direct and responsive torque delivery without lag. The 2025 Santa Fe hybrid includes a 1.49 kWh battery and a 64-horsepower electric motor driving the front wheels. This Korean hybrid system operates similarly to others, allowing the engine to shut off at low speeds. It provides extra power during acceleration. The hybrid two-wheel-drive accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.6 seconds, reaches a top speed of 180 km/h, and achieves up to 16.0 km per liter fuel consumption. Real-world testing on a round-trip from Bangkok to Sam Roi Yot National Park yielded about 14.3 km per liter in ECO mode.
After testing both city and highway driving for seven days covering 980 kilometers, the Hyundai new Santa Fe delivers a very stable and solid driving feel. Systems operate reliably and are easy to control. Basic controls, such as temperature and mirror adjustments, remain separate from the central touchscreen, a fundamental design for ease and safety during driving. Although the hybrid engine isn't very powerful, few large 6-7 seaters offer suspension tuning like this.
The 1.6T HEV / G4FT inline four-cylinder gasoline engine produces 232 horsepower. Initially, it was thought the engine might be underpowered for such a large vehicle carrying passengers and cargo. However, the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (not CVT) delivers smooth torque to the front wheels with minimal noise, even under heavy acceleration, due to excellent sound insulation. On long-distance drives to Prachuap province, the Santa Fe Hybrid performed impressively, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in under 10 seconds, with sufficient torque from both engine and motor for confident overtaking, and fuel efficiency around 14.2 km per liter when driving steadily.
Santa Fe is a large vehicle, and the basic rule is that SUVs with higher ground clearance are less suited to high-speed cornering than sedans. Yet, the Santa Fe handles curves well with minimal body roll. The suspension and tires balance comfort and grip. Its size is large but not as big as the Ford Raptor, making it a good city-driving choice, with ease parking in tight spaces aided by 360-degree cameras, sensors, and responsive steering with a tight turning radius. Compared to similar-sized vehicles, the Hyundai Santa Fe is easier to drive and generally reliable in Korean automotive style. The angular hood allows near-complete front visibility unless the seat is set too low. Visibility around the vehicle is good, supported by surround-view cameras and obstacle detection systems.
The Santa Fe's suspension effectively absorbs bumps and speed humps in neighborhoods, offering enough travel to comfortably handle braking forces. The hybrid engine responds smoothly with virtually no gearshift jolts, allowing immediate acceleration. On the motorway, despite the boxy body, wind noise is minimal due to Hyundai’s engineering efforts, achieving good aerodynamics and quiet road noise. The only occasional disturbance is engine noise at high revs during sudden acceleration for safe overtaking.
The 6-speed automatic transmission, distinct from CVT, offers smooth and natural shifts with a driving feel closer to European cars rather than the rubbery CVT sensation. Driving all day within speed limits results in excellent fuel economy. The small battery powering the electric assist motor provides sufficient reserve for steep hills and rapid acceleration. Driver assist systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping support make driving easier and safer.
Santa Fe handles corners well with precise steering and minimal body lean, enabling smooth navigation of winding roads. However, its 200-horsepower output limits sporty fun. The steering is light at low speeds and appropriately weighted at higher speeds. On secondary or rural roads at moderate speeds, the Santa Fe is more enjoyable than expected, gripping corners well. Sport mode may reduce passenger comfort due to sharper body movements, but body roll remains minimal. Larger SUVs like BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS struggle with tight high-speed corners due to size and weight, especially during emergency braking. The Santa Fe, being lighter, performs slightly better despite having standard suspension and 18-inch Korean tires, providing good handling on both straightaways and familiar curves near Pranburi.
Fuel consumption need not be overly concerned as the focus isn't just on flashy figures, which is impressive. Hyundai’s hybrid system maximizes electric driving, utilizing regenerative braking controlled via paddle shifters to provide smooth deceleration without brake use while recharging the battery, resulting in significant fuel savings. The hybrid powertrain is designed not to interfere with driving, delivering seamless and smooth operation. The thick steering wheel rim enhances control confidence, providing accurate cornering without over- or under-steering despite the vehicle's large size.
Straight-line stability, overtaking acceleration, and cruising speed seem designed with energy efficiency in mind but can deliver power when needed. The Prestige model features 18-inch wheels with 235/60R18 107V tires, offering good handling quality. The 60-series tire sidewalls, combined with shocks, springs, and tires, effectively absorb vibrations from road joints and speed bumps. The suspension and tires perform well at all speeds. The Santa Fe is truly a motorway cruiser. Wind and tire noise at high speeds on concrete and asphalt roads are not overly intrusive. Although the Santa Fe's drag coefficient isn't as low as some electric vehicles, sound insulation is surprisingly good. It drives neatly without feeling excessively large, and after 600 kilometers, there is no fatigue or discomfort, making it an excellent vehicle for long trips—a hallmark of Hyundai Santa Fe from past to present.
The chassis, suspension, steering, wheels, and tires enable exceptional control of this large boxy vehicle. It drives better than expected for a Korean car, rivaling European SUVs tested weekly. Other hybrid or plug-in models, whether Chinese or German, typically offer longer pure electric ranges, but most Chinese vehicles lag behind Korean brands in suspension quality. Achieving suspension balance is more challenging for large SUVs than small cars. As a Korean family SUV with over 30 years of development history, Santa Fe is designed for families. Although the taillight design may not please everyone, its outstanding driving, comfort, and practicality, especially for long-distance driving at this price, are undeniable.
Parallel Hybrid: The core of The all-new HYUNDAI SANTA FE Hybrid.
The Hyundai all-new SANTA FE Hybrid stands out by employing a Parallel Hybrid drivetrain designed to deliver both performance and efficiency uniquely. It combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor and a 1.49 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery, producing a combined maximum output of 232 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and a substantial torque of 367 Newton-meters between 1,000 and 4,100 rpm. It meets Euro 6 emission standards and supports front-wheel drive (FWD) adaptable to all road conditions, achieving an average fuel economy of up to 19.6 km per liter. Powered by a 60 kW electric motor, the engine, motor, and 6-speed automatic transmission work seamlessly together, embodying the essence of Parallel Hybrid technology, which distinctly sets the Hyundai all-new SANTA FE Hybrid apart in the modern hybrid vehicle market.
The strength of the Parallel Hybrid system lies in its simple yet effective structure that avoids unnecessary complexity while delivering clear benefits in performance, efficiency, and reliability. The motor and transmission arrangement reduces energy losses and balances power with cost-effectiveness. Drivers enjoy driving pleasure similar to conventional internal combustion engines, combined with confidence in real-world fuel efficiency, positioning the all-new SANTA FE Hybrid as one of the strongest choices in the new generation hybrid vehicle segment.
A key distinguishing feature of this Korean Hybrid is the choice of a 6-speed automatic transmission rather than a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This decision reflects a philosophy emphasizing natural, authentic driving experiences similar to combustion engine vehicles, augmented by a quiet and continuous electric motor. The result is performance and driving enjoyment that remain uncompromised despite being a hybrid, meeting consumer demands for power, efficiency, and driving fun.
The hybrid system of the Hyundai all-new SANTA FE showcases advanced automotive engineering through precise and efficient energy management, delivering outstanding fuel economy in both urban and long-distance driving. A critical factor is the electric motor’s role in reducing engine load at low speeds, such as in stop-and-go traffic or frequent acceleration and deceleration, enhancing urban fuel efficiency. On highways, the engine maintains optimal combustion efficiency by operating at consistent RPMs aligned with actual speeds, achieving balanced fuel economy in all situations without relying on external charging since the battery continuously charges itself via braking and engine operation.
The system’s core comprises three main technologies:
· Regenerative Braking: Recovers energy normally lost during braking and stores it in the battery.
· Electric Assist: Provides motor-powered boost during starts and overtaking, reducing engine load and enhancing acceleration.
· Smart Energy Flow: Intelligent energy management aligns fuel and electric power use with real driving conditions.
Value and Durability.
Another strength of the Korean Hybrid is its use of shared components with conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, simplifying maintenance, ensuring parts availability, and enhancing overall system durability. Consumers can be confident that owning such a hybrid does not mean higher costs compared to regular cars but instead offers increased value both short- and long-term.
Hyundai’s success in developing Parallel Hybrid technology demonstrates South Korea’s engineering prowess, blending mechanical simplicity with intelligent energy management perfectly. The result is the balance consumers truly want: confident performance, proven fuel economy, tangible power, and trusted quality. This makes the Hyundai all-new SANTA FE Hybrid not just a 3-row 6-seater family SUV but a symbol of Korean hybrid strength and progress on the global stage. The SANTA FE Hybrid is designed not only to be the most fuel-efficient vehicle but to offer a balance of advanced technology and practical usability in every aspect. Parallel Hybrid represents Korean robustness—simple yet powerful, economical yet fun to drive, balanced yet performance-rich—for consumers seeking a family SUV that meets daily and all-trip demands. Hyundai all-new SANTA FE Hybrid is a clear answer for future mobility.
Euro NCAP tested the new Santa Fe’s crash safety, awarding it a 4-star overall rating and 5 stars for the 'Smartsense' safety system. This system includes advanced adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and comprehensive blind-spot detection technologies.
The all-new SANTA FE (Prestige)
Engine model: 1.6T HEV / G4FT
Type: DOHC D-CVVT Inline 4-cylinder, 16 valves
Displacement (cc): 1,598
Bore x stroke (mm): 75.6 x 89.0
Compression ratio: 10.5:1
Fuel type: Supports gasoline E10
Fuel injection system: T-GDI (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection)
Maximum power: 178 horsepower at 5,500 rpm
Maximum torque: 265 Newton-meters at 4,500 rpm
Emission standard: Euro 6
Drive system: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Transmission: 6-speed automatic with electric motor
Electric motor maximum power: 60 horsepower (HP) at 1,600–2,100 rpm
Electric motor maximum torque: 264 Newton-meters at 1,700 rpm
Combined maximum power: 232 horsepower at 5,600 rpm
Combined maximum torque: 367 Newton-meters at 1,000–4,100 rpm
Battery: Lithium-ion 1.49 kWh
Steering: Electric power steering
Suspension: Front MacPherson strut / Rear multi-link
Brakes (front / rear): Disc brakes with ventilated rotors
Minimum ground clearance: 177 mm
Fuel tank capacity: 67 liters
Minimum turning radius: 5.8 meters
Body dimensions: Length 4,830 mm
Width: 1,900 mm
Height: 1,770 mm
Wheelbase: 2,815 mm
Alloy wheels: 18 inches
Tire size: 18x7.5J 235/60R18 170V