2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy: Overview
Hyundai, with its model offensive in the last couple of years, created a model range of SUVs filling every segment of these popular vehicles. And Santa Fe is one of them. For people who look for a two-row midsize SUV with more leg-and luggage room than a compact one, this vehicle is the choice. Earlier, Hyundai used to offer Santa Fe in two different wheelbases and called these models Santa Fe, and Santa Fe XL respectively. This was a bit confusing. But, as the Korean automaker introduced the 7-seater Palisade, it positioned Santa Fe below the Palisade the model hierarchy became more easily understandable. Sharing the same platform with the Kia Sorento, its corporate cousin, the Hyundai Group delivers the products that the market wants.
When it comes to 5-passenger, middle-class SUV’s, the Santa Fe shines with its sculptured design
2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy: Engine and Powertrain
Our tester, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe in the Calligraphy trim, has a new 2.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine replacing last year’s 2.0-litre turbo. This engine is available only in the Limited and Calligraphy models, delivers 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. With a broad rpm range, this engine is matched to a new wet-plate 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. So, in terms of powertrain. the new Santa Fe offers advanced technology and thus a pleasant drive.
The new 2.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (replaced the 2.0-litre turbo) comes with the Limited and Calligraphy trim levels and delivers 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The torque curve is flat and impressed us as if a bigger engine
2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy: Design and Interior
The interior has design features borrowed from the luxury class like the floating centre console and big infotainment screen reminding us of Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury brand
We already know that Hyundai made big progress in terms of interior quality and design. Our tester, in the range-topping Calligraphy trim, is simply impressive and offers almost the quality of a luxury vehicle. The leather seats are appointed with soft, Nappa leather. The surfaces have a soft touch. And the stitches and wrappings on the instrument panel, console, and door trim impress as if this is a bespoke vehicle, at least in some areas. The front seats are heated and ventilated, with lumbar adjustment. They are very comfortable too.
Unlike its corporate cousin, the Kia Sorento, the Santa Fe refrained from adding a tight third row and gave priority to the comfort of the second row
The digital configurable 12.3-inch instrumentation display changes colours according to the selectable drive modes. Another nice feature that we are familiar with from our earlier tests with Hyundai, Kia and Genesis vehicles are virtual analog gauges on the side of the turning direction that show a live view of the blind spot. It requires some getting-used but may look more convenient than the side mirrors. In my case, I checked the mirrors too to see “the actual picture”.
The 10.25-inch high-definition touchscreen display with split-screen is easy to operate.
The system is compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. However, the connection works only via a USB cable. I tested the Android Auto only and did not have any problems.
The embedded navigation with voice recognition works well. The controls for infotainment systems are easy with rotary knobs, hard push-buttons and controls on the steering wheel.
Our tester had a 12-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound premium audio system with 630 watts of power. Another feature that makes you feel in a premium vehicle.
During a few night drives, I was able to test a few of 64 ambient lightings of the doors, instrument panel, and footwells. The standard panoramic sunroof and the dual-zone automatic climate control system are two nice features that make the interior more luxurious.
The new, high-mounted center console is probably taken from Genesis. The electronic pushbutton transmission gear selector saves space. The arching and floating centre has deep and wide storage space underneath.
As you would expect from an SUV in particular, there is no shortage of storage space in the glovebox, covered console cubby, an open shelf above the glovebox, and the door side pockets. The vertical phone charger slot is convenient and charges your phone even if it has a thick protective cover. You still have four USB ports. Sadly, the cupholders did not get the same attention: They are too small for large beverage cups.
The rear seatback is split 60/40, with a fold-down center armrest with cup holders. Unlike Kia Sorento, its corporate cousin, Hyundai got rid of an inevitably third-row seat. The reward was generous legroom in this highly competitive class.
With only two rows of seats, the Santa Fe offers generous cargo room with easy loading
With the hands-free power liftgate and adjustable opening speeds, loading cargo is relatively easy.
The sophisticated yet elegant headlight design gives Santa Fe a unique and luxurious character
2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy: Driving Impressions
With the new 2.5L, turbocharged engine, you never feel underpowered. Merging onto fast-moving highways, or passing other vehicles may even be a pleasure. Santa Fe’s 2.5-turbo DCT powertrain is engaging, the quick-shifting is very precise and sends a message about the quality of technology Hyundai immersed into its vehicles.
19″ alloy-wheels are standard with the Calligraphy trim
The light signature for taillights makes the Santa Fe unique and almost indistinguishable
2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy: Pricing and Equipment
For details of pricing and equipment, please see the window sticker of our tester below:
2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy: Conclusion
Hyundai impresses us with appealing products in every segment.
It almost goes without saying that the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe is a smart choice for buyers looking for a roomy, comfortable, and stylish 5-passenger midsize SUV.
For more information please visit: https://www.hyundaicanada.com/
