The New Hyundai Santa Fe Is Huge In Every Way

By Jeremy Taylor & Jessica Talbot-Ponsonby

2 hours ago

Is there a better way to move the family?

This post may contain affiliate links. Learn more

The New Hyundai Santa Fe Is Huge In Every Way

Motoring editor Jeremy Taylor and Jessica Talbot-Ponsonby explore a cavernous Korean seven-seater: the Hyundai Santa Fe.

Car Review: Hyundai Santa Fe

JT-P Wow! Now, that is a seriously large SUV. I’m assuming it cost a packet?

JT Not exactly. Hyundai’s biggest people-carrier starts at just under £50,000 – our mid-range Calligraphy model is around £4,000 more. That seems fantastic value for a do-it-all vehicle which looks so arresting and will tackle most jobs.

I note our test car also had four-wheel drive but there are cheaper, two-wheel drive versions too, for those who need the space but not the go-anywhere ability.

That’s right. You can choose from all manner of configurations, including six or seven seats. All are powered by the same turbocharged 1.6-litre hybrid engine, the plug-in version develops a healthy 250bhp, or there’s a self-charging PHEV too.

Are there many seven-seat cars available for this sort of money?

Not really, you will most likely be looking at five-seat versions of the Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60. If you want to spend more, a Volvo XC90 is a strong contender.

You could ask why bother because the Hyundai interior is class-leading – practical, roomy and very comfortable.

I wouldn’t say it is the most engaging drive but the hybrid engine is swift enough and quiet at speed. The main talking point is the big and bold styling that turns more heads than a Range Rover.

You can say that again – the rear-end design is a little flat but for road presence, sheer ‘look at me’ styling, there is nothing like it. Hyundai has a strong range of cars at the moment – this is a worthy flagship.

And if you need space, this really is the car. Even with the middle seats upright, the boot will swallow five suitcases. The third row is a little tight put perfectly adequate for kids.

Some might find the outsize dimensions a little unwieldy for urban driving but the Santa Fe excels as a long-distance cruiser.

And your kids will love it – the cyberpunk image will be a real talking point at the school gates.