Shereen Shabnam
In a segment brimming with capable midsize SUVs, the new Hyundai Santa Fe HTRAC 2.5 stands out by blending confident performance, practical technology, and a design language that feels more sophisticated than ever. After spending a day behind the wheel, it’s clear Hyundai has elevated the Santa Fe into a refined, well-rounded contender that comfortably serves both family duties and the occasional weekend adventure.
Exterior
From the first glance, the new Santa Fe makes a strong visual statement. The design has evolved into a bolder, more assertive shape, marked by a wide cascading grille and sharp, angular LED headlamps that give it real road presence. Pronounced wheel arches, a high beltline, and crisp character lines along the flanks create an athletic silhouette, while the rear features T-shaped tail lamps connected by a full-width light bar—lending it a premium edge. Rolling on stylish alloy wheels, the Santa Fe strikes the right balance between ruggedness and urban polish.
Interior
Open the door, and you’re greeted by an airy, thoughtfully designed cabin. Hyundai has prioritized spaciousness, with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. High-quality soft-touch materials and neatly integrated trim elevate the atmosphere, while the wide centre console and ambient lighting create a more upscale feel. The seats offer generous support for long drives, and the large panoramic sunroof floods the interior with natural light. Storage is abundant, with clever compartments and practical touches throughout.
Technology
The Santa Fe’s technology suite is impressively comprehensive. A crisp digital instrument cluster pairs with a large touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto seamlessly. The HTRAC model includes multiple drive modes accessible via a rotary selector, along with advanced driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a high-quality audio system ensure connectivity and convenience for all passengers.
Performance
Under the hood, the 2.5-litre engine delivers smooth, confident power, well matched to the demands of daily driving. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, it feels responsive without being overly aggressive, making it perfect for city commutes and highway cruising alike. The HTRAC all-wheel-drive system adds assurance in poor weather or on loose surfaces, automatically distributing torque where it’s needed. On the road, the Santa Fe feels composed and settled, with good noise insulation and a suspension tuned for comfort over rougher surfaces.
Final Verdict
The new Hyundai Santa Fe HTRAC 2.5 is a reminder of how far the brand has come. It’s stylish without trying too hard, spacious without feeling bulky, and loaded with technology that enhances rather than complicates the driving experience. And we found the SUV blending daily practicality with refined comfort and capability – which makes the Santa Fe one of the smartest choices in its class.
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