2022 Hyundai Santa Fe

Pros: Extensive list of safety and convenience features; quiet cabin; competitive pricing; broad model lineup

Cons: So-so EPA fuel economy numbers for non-hybrids

CG Says: After a major refresh for 2021, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe lineup gains a plug-in-hybrid version (only in select states at launch) and an off-road-appearance XRT trim level with unique wheels, side steps, skid plates, and blacked-out body trim. A 191-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission is the base powertrain for SE and SEL. Limited and Calligraphy models come standard with a 277-hp 2.5-liter turbo paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic, which is optional on the others. Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive is available on all regular gas-engine models except the Calligraphy trim, where it’s standard. The hybrid powertrain combines a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor for a total of 225 hp, and is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The new plug-in hybrid uses a a larger battery pack and a more powerful electric motor, netting 261 hp and up to 30 miles of electric-only driving.

The SmartSense suite of safety features—which includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, lane-keep assist, automatic high-beam headlights, adaptive cruise control with full stop-and-go capability, and a driver-attention warning feature—is standard on all models. Standard on all except the base SE are a blind-spot monitor (with steering-assist functionality), rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist, a system that detects vehicles approaching from the rear, and either prevents the driver from deactivating the child-safety locks if the doors are closed or issues a warning if a rear door is already open. Another available safety feature is Rear Occupant Alert, which reminds the driver to check the rear seat and sounds the horn and sends a text message if motion is detected in the rear seat after the driver has left the vehicle. The Hyundai Santa Fe has long been a likeable SUV with pleasant ride and handling, a quiet cabin, and a broad range of available features. The range of updates and enhancements for 2021—and the further expansion of the model lineup for 2022—make the Santa Fe an even stronger contender.