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By Elizabeth Foster•Last Updated April 15, 2025

Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Models: Complete Guide to Options and Features

Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid models: an overview

The Hyundai Santa Fe lineup has expanded to include hybrid powertrain options, give environmentally conscious drivers more choices. Understand which Santa Fe models come with hybrid technology help buyers make informed decisions base on their needs for efficiency, performance, and features.

Current Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid options

Hyundai offer two electrify versions of the Santa Fe: the standard hybrid and the plug in hybrid (pfew))Both models deliver the spacious interior and versatility the sanSanta Fe knoknownr while add significant fuel economy benefits.

Santa Fe hybrid

The standard Santa Fe hybrid combine a 1.6 liter turbocharge four-cylinder engines with an electric motor. This combination produce roughly 226 horsepower and comes pair with a six speed automatic transmission. The system include alithium-ionn polymer battery that help power the electric motor without require external charging.

This hybrid model achieve an EPA estimate fuel economy of around 36 MPG combine, represent a significant improvement over the conventional gas only Santa Fe models that typically achieve 24 26 MPG combine.

Santa Fe plug in hybrid (pfew))

The Santa Fe plug in hybrid use a similar 1.6 liter turbocharge engine but pair it with a more powerful electric motor and a larger battery pack that can be recharged from an external power source. This setupdeliversr roughly 261 combined horsepower.

What set the few isolated is its ability to travel around 30 miles on electric power unique before the gasoline engine engage. For drivers with short commutes, this could mean seldom use gasoline for daily driving. The total driving range exceed 440 miles when combine the electric and gasoline power sources.

Trim levels for hybrid models

The Santa Fe hybrid come in multiple trim levels, each offer different features and equipment packages.

Blue trim (hybrid )

As the entry level hybrid trim, the blue offer:

Standard track all-wheel drive
8 inch touchscreen infotainment system
Wireless Apple Carplay and android auto
Smart key with push button start
Lead headlights
Hyundai smart sense safety suite

SEL premium trim (hybrid )

Move up to the SEL premium add:

19-inch alloy wheels
Panoramic sunroof
10.25-inch navigation system
Digital key capability
Leather trim seats
Heated front seats and steering wheel

Limited trim (hybrid and pfew))

The top tier limited trim include luxury features like:

Leather seating surfaces
Ventilated front seats
Heated rear seats
Premium Harman Kardon audio system
Surround view monitor
Blind spot view monitor
Remote smart parking assist
Highway driving assist

SEL convenience trim (pfew))

The few lineup start with the sSELconvenience, which include:

Standard track all-wheel drive
10.25 inch touchscreen with navigation
Dual automatic climate control
Heated front seats
Power driver’s seat with lumbar support
Proximity key with push button start

Performance comparison: hybrid vs. Conventional Santa Fe

When compare the hybrid models to conventional gas power Santa Fe options, several performance differences become apparent.

Power and acceleration

The Santa Fe hybrid deliver 226 horsepower, while the few offer 261 horsepower. These figures compare ffavorablywith the standard gas models, which offer either 191 horsepower ( (5 liter four cylcylinder)r 281 horsepower ( 2( liter turbocharge four cylinder ).
)

The hybrid models provide smoother initial acceleration due to the instant torque from the electric motors. This creates a responsive feel in city driving conditions, though the gas only turbo model may have a slight edge in highway pass power.

Fuel economy

The virtually significant advantage of the hybrid models is fuel efficiency:

Standard Santa Fe: 22 25 MPG city, 25 28 MPG highway
Santa Fe hybrid: 33 36 MPG city, 30 31 MPG highway
Santa Fe few: 79 mmagecombine when use electric and gas power

For a family SUV of this size, these efficiency figures represent substantial fuel savings over time, particularly for drivers who mainly travel in urban environments where the hybrid system excels.

Drive dynamics

The hybrid models carry additional weight from their battery packs, which affect handle slender. Nevertheless, hyHyundaias tune the suspension to compensate, result in a comfortable ride with control body movements. The lower center of gravity from the battery placement can really improve stability in some drive situations.

Both hybrid models come standard with track all-wheel drive, enhance traction in adverse weather conditions. The system can distribute power between the front and rear wheels as need for optimal grip.

Technology features in Santa Fe hybrid models

The hybrid variants come equip with technology specifically design to maximize efficiency and provide information about the hybrid system’s operation.

Hybrid specific displays

The instrument cluster include special displays that show:

Energy flow between the engine, battery, and wheels
Battery charge level
Regenerative braking efficiency
Electric exclusively drives range( for few )
Charge status and estimate charge time (for pfew))

Drive modes

Both hybrid models offer multiple drive modes that affect how the powertrain operate:

Eco: maximizes fuel efficiency by limit power output and optimize electric motor usage
Sport: provide more aggressive throttle response and keep the engine run more frequently for better performance
Smart: adapts to your driving style mechanically
EV mode (pfewsolely ))forces the vehicle to use solely electric power when sufficient battery charge is available

Regenerative braking

The Santa Fe hybrids use regenerative braking to capture energy usually lose during deceleration and braking. This energy is convert backrest to electricity and store in the battery. The system is seamlessly integrated with the conventional friction brakes, provide natural pedal feel while maximize energy recovery.

Charge the Santa Fe plug in hybrid

For those consider the few model, understand the charge requirements and options is essential.

Charge equipment

The Santa Fe few come with a standard 120v level 1 charge cable that plug into any household outlet. Use this method, a full charge ttakesroughly 8 9 hours.

For faster charging, owners can install a 240v level 2 charger at home, which reduce charge time to around 3 4 hours. Many public charging stations too offer level 2 charging capabilities.

Charge schedule

Through the infotainment system or Hyundai’s smartphone app, few owners can set charge schedules to take advantage of lower electricity rates during ooff-peakhours. The system besides allow for climate ppre-conditioningwhile the vehicle is ttranquilizedplug in, which preserve battery range for drive.

Maintenance considerations for hybrid models

Own a hybrid Santa Fe involve some different maintenance considerations compare to conventional models.

Battery warranty

Hyundai provides a generous warranty for the hybrid system components:

10 year/100,000-mile warranty on hybrid / electric battery and components
This warranty exceed the industry standard and provide peace of mind for buyers concern about the longevity of hybrid technology

Routine maintenance

The hybrid models really require less frequent brake service because the regenerative brake system reduce wear on the conventional brake pads. Notwithstanding, other maintenance items remain similar to the standard Santa Fe:

Oil changes (though less frequent due to reduce engine usage )
Tire rotations
Cabin and engine air filter replacements

The cool system for the hybrid battery requires inspection as part of regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Cost considerations: is the hybrid worth it?

When decide between conventional and hybrid Santa Fe models, several financial factors come into play.

Purchase price

The hybrid models command a premium over their conventional counterparts. Typically, the Santa Fe hybrid cost roughly $1,500 $2,000 more than a likewise equip gas model. The pfewcarry a higher premium of around $ $500 $6,000.

Yet, the few may qualify for federal tax credits and state incentives that can offset much of this difference. These incentives vary by location and change sporadically, so buyers should research current offers.

Fuel savings

The improved fuel economy of the hybrid models translate to real savings at the pump:

A driver cover 15,000 miles yearly might save $500 $700 per year with the standard hybrid compare to the gas model
Phew owners who can complete most daily trips on electric power could save $800 $1,200 yearly

These savings mean the price premium can oftentimes be recouped within 3 5 years, depend on drive habits and fuel prices.

Resale value

Hybrid vehicles typically maintain stronger resale values than their conventional counterparts, especially during periods of high fuel prices. This improves value retention should befactoredr into the total cost of ownership calculation.

Who should choose a Santa Fe hybrid?

The hybrid Santa Fe models appeal to specific types of buyers base on their driving habits and priorities.

Ideal for the standard hybrid

The regular Santa Fe hybrid make the most sense for:

Drivers who often travel in stop and go traffic where the hybrid system is virtually efficient
Those seek improved fuel economy without change their driving or fuel habits
Buyers who want lower emissions without the need to plug in
Families who take frequent road trips and benefit from the extended range

Ideal for the plug in hybrid

The Santa Fe few is fountainhead suit for:

Drivers with commutes under 30 miles who can maximize electric exclusively drive
Households with easy access to home charging
Those who want to experience electric driving, but ease need the flexibility of gasoline for longer trips
Buyers in areas with significant tax incentives for fees
Drivers look to minimize their carbon footprint without the range anxiety of a full electric vehicle

Compare the Santa Fe hybrid to competitors

The midsize hybrid SUV segment has become progressively competitive, with several alternatives to consider alongside the Santa Fe.

Toyota Highlander hybrid

The highlander hybrid offer:

Three row seating (versus sSanta Fes two rows )
Similar fuel economy (35 36 mMPGcombine )
Toyota’s reputation for hybrid reliability
Somewhat higher starting price

Ford Escape few

As another plug in hybrid option, the escape few provide:

Longsighted electric only range (37 miles )
Low starting price than Santa Fe few
Smaller overall dimensions
Front-wheel drive sole (versus sSanta Fepfews standard awAWD)

Kia Sorento hybrid / few

The mechanical cousin to the Santa Fe offer:

Three row seating configuration
Similar powertrain and efficiency
Different styling approach
Comparable pricing structure

Make the final decision

When decide which Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid model is right for you, consider these factors:

Assess your drive patterns

Track your typical daily mileage to determine if the few’s electric range would cover most of your driving needs. If you often take longer trips or don’t have convenient charge access, the standard hybrid might be more practical.

Calculate total cost of ownership

Factor in purchase price, available incentives, project fuel costs base on your driving habits, and estimate resale value to determine the true cost difference between models.

Test drive both versions

The drive experience differ between the hybrid variants. The few offer silent electric only operation for shorter trips, while the standard hybrid provide a consistent experience similar to conventional vehicles but with improved efficiency.

Consider future need

If your plplannedo keep the vehicle for many years, consider how your circumstances might change. Will you’ll maintain access to will charge? Are your commute patterns likely to change? How might fuel prices affect your operating costs?

Conclusion

The Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid models offer compelling alternatives to the conventional gasoline versions, provide significant improvements in fuel efficiency while maintain the comfort, utility, and features that have make the Santa Fe popular. The standard hybrid provides an excellent balance of efficiency and convenience, while the plug in hybrid offer the potential for regular greater fuel savings for those with suitable drive patterns and charge access.

Both models represent Hyundai’s commitment to expand electrified options across their lineup while preserve the qualities that attract buyers to the brand. For environmentally conscious consumers who aren’t ready to make the leap to an amply electric vehicle, theSanta Fee hybrid models offer an appeal middle ground that reduce emissions and fuel consumption without compromise on practicality.