Review: 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid - The hidden gem of family SUVs

It’s sleek, modern, and designed to put everything you need right at your fingertips.

But it’s the clever touches that truly make the Santa Fe stand out. My personal favourite? The one-touch buttons in the rear that fold down the second-row seats effortlessly—perfect for cyclists loading up their bikes or families needing extra cargo space.

There’s even a button to slide the left-side seat forward, making access to the third row a breeze.

Once you slide into the driver’s seat, you’re greeted by a space that feels more like a sanctuary than just another SUV. Hyundai has nailed the airy, open design with a cabin that’s spacious and laid out with meticulous attention to detail.

The raised center console gives off a premium, armchair-like vibe for both the driver and front passenger, complete with ergonomically placed buttons that make traditional controls feel outdated.

In the facelift, Hyundai even replaces the old-school shifter lever with a shift-by-wire system, streamlining the whole setup for a modern, clutter-free look.

And let’s talk convenience. Whether it’s a quick school run or a family road trip, the Santa Fe Hybrid ensures every mile feels like first-class travel.

In the rear, passengers are treated to VIP-level comfort, complete with reclining seats and generous legroom that invites you to stretch out and relax.

The generous legroom in the second row isn’t just for those seated there—it also benefits third-row passengers. The second-row seats slide forward effortlessly, creating extra space for those in the back.

And speaking of the third row, it’s impressively comfortable compared to a lot of 7-seater SUVs. Adults can sit there comfortably, even on longer journeys.

To top it off, independent blower controls let third-row occupants personalize their comfort, making the space feel like their own little domain.

Pair that with an expansive cargo area capable of effortlessly accommodating everything from camping gear to shopping hauls, and you’ve got an SUV that’s equal parts versatile and luxurious.

No matter where the road leads, the Santa Fe Hybrid makes every journey as memorable and enjoyable as the destination itself.

Power and Efficiency: The Hybrid Sweet Spot

Beneath the hood lies a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 230 horsepower and 350Nm of torque. It’s a setup that feels tailor-made for current needs in Malaysia.

In the city, the hybrid system shines. The electric motor takes the lead during stop-and-go traffic, ensuring smooth acceleration and impressively quiet operation.

As you pick up speed, the petrol engine seamlessly steps in, offering the perfect blend of power and efficiency.

Out on the open road, the Santa Fe Hybrid comes alive too. Its responsive handling and solid road presence make it a joy to drive, whether you’re weaving through highway traffic or tackling winding country roads.

Thanks to its hybrid technology, fuel stops are fewer and farther between, saving both time and money. Hyundai Malaysia claims the Santa Fe Hybrid can achieve up to 1,000 kilometers on a full tank, and while we managed closer to 900 kilometers, that’s still impressive given the spirited driving we put it through.

The excellent NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) characteristics further enhance the semi-electrified nature of the car, giving it a refined, almost EV-like feel at low speeds when the electric motor takes over.

Driving the Santa Fe Hybrid Facelift is an absolute pleasure—it carries itself with the poise and sophistication of a luxury SUV that feels like it should cost RM400,000, yet it comes in at around RM200,000. A true standout in its class.

Safety as Standard

Hyundai takes no shortcuts when it comes to safety, and the Santa Fe Hybrid proves it with SmartSense—a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assist features designed to make every journey as secure as it is effortless.

Picture this: you’re cruising along the highway, and your focus slips for just a moment. Lane-keeping assist gently nudges you back on track, like a watchful co-pilot.

A cyclist suddenly appears from a blind spot? The Santa Fe’s Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist is there to help reduce the risk of an accident.

While it’s not the same as Autonomous Emergency Braking, it provides an added layer of protection for those unexpected situations—though we didn’t get to test it ourselves, thanks to our careful driving.

Then there’s the surround-view monitor, a feature so intuitive it feels like you’ve unlocked a cheat code for stress-free parking. Tight spots and tricky angles become a breeze, with the bird’s-eye view keeping every bumper and wheel safe.

Our personal favourite, though, is the adaptive cruise control. In heavy traffic, it’s a lifesaver. The system accelerates smoothly and brakes just as gently, delivering a calm, composed experience even in stop-and-go conditions.

It’s safety and convenience rolled into one, making every drive a confident and enjoyable journey.

Why Has No One Noticed?