Hey everyone, today we're diving deep into the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) here in the UK. We'll be going through everything – from the driving experience and performance to the practicality, features, and overall value. So, if you're in the market for a spacious, eco-friendly SUV, stick around, because we're about to find out if the Santa Fe PHEV is worth your hard-earned cash! This review is designed to give you a clear, comprehensive picture so you can decide if it's the right car for your needs. We'll look at real-world fuel economy, charging times, and how it stacks up against the competition. Whether you're new to the world of PHEVs or a seasoned pro, there's something here for everyone. Let’s get started, shall we?

Driving Experience and Performance of the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

Alright, let's talk about the fun stuff – how does the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV actually drive? The beauty of a PHEV is that you get the best of both worlds: electric power for short, everyday journeys and a petrol engine for longer trips. In the Santa Fe PHEV, this setup consists of a 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output that provides some serious oomph. Around town, the electric motor shines. It delivers instant torque, making acceleration brisk and effortless, which is great for zipping around town and navigating those tricky roundabouts. The transition between electric and petrol power is generally very smooth and refined. You'll barely notice the engine kicking in, unless you really put your foot down.

On the open road, the petrol engine provides the necessary power for overtaking and maintaining motorway speeds. The Santa Fe PHEV feels composed and stable at higher speeds, making it a comfortable cruiser for long journeys. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in both city streets and country lanes. It's not a sports car, mind you, but it handles well for a large SUV. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface with ease. This makes for a relaxed and enjoyable driving experience, even on less-than-perfect roads. The regenerative braking system helps to recharge the battery while you're driving, further enhancing the car's efficiency. You can adjust the level of regenerative braking using paddles behind the steering wheel, giving you more control over the car's deceleration. This can be particularly useful in stop-and-go traffic or when descending hills. The overall driving experience is one of refinement and ease. It's a car that's easy to live with, offering a comfortable and practical driving experience for everyday use. So, whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on a family road trip, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is a capable and versatile vehicle.

Acceleration and Power

Under the hood, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV boasts a combined power output that's more than adequate for most driving scenarios. The electric motor delivers instant torque, providing brisk acceleration from a standstill. This is particularly noticeable in city driving, where the car feels responsive and agile. Overtaking on the open road is also a breeze, thanks to the combined power of the petrol engine and electric motor. The Santa Fe PHEV can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in a respectable time, making it feel quick and nimble for its size. The power delivery is smooth and linear, ensuring a comfortable and controlled driving experience. The car's performance feels effortless, allowing you to navigate traffic with ease and enjoy a spirited drive when the mood strikes. The electric motor also contributes to a quieter and more refined driving experience, especially at lower speeds. This is a significant advantage, reducing noise and vibrations in the cabin and enhancing overall comfort. The petrol engine seamlessly integrates with the electric motor, providing power when needed without any noticeable lag or delay. This combination ensures that the Santa Fe PHEV can handle various driving conditions with ease, from stop-and-go traffic to long highway journeys.

Handling and Ride Quality

When it comes to handling and ride quality, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV offers a well-balanced and composed experience. The car's suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. This ensures a smooth and pleasant ride, even on rough surfaces. The Santa Fe PHEV feels stable and planted on the road, providing confident handling in various driving conditions. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in both city streets and country lanes. The car's body roll is well-controlled, enhancing the overall feeling of stability. The Santa Fe PHEV's handling is predictable and reassuring, allowing you to navigate corners with confidence. The car's braking system is also effective, providing strong and reliable stopping power. The regenerative braking system further enhances the driving experience, helping to recharge the battery while decelerating. This system not only improves fuel efficiency but also provides a more engaging driving experience. The Santa Fe PHEV's ride quality is consistently comfortable, making it a great choice for long journeys. The car's interior is well-insulated from road and wind noise, further enhancing the feeling of comfort and refinement.

Practicality, Features, and Technology

Okay, let's talk about the practical side of things. Is the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV a car you can actually live with? The answer is a resounding yes! It's spacious, versatile, and packed with features. Inside, you'll find a generous amount of space for both passengers and luggage. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, making it a comfortable place to be for adults and kids alike. The boot is also spacious, easily swallowing up suitcases, shopping bags, or even a pushchair. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, making the Santa Fe PHEV a truly versatile vehicle.

In terms of features, the Santa Fe PHEV comes well-equipped, even in the base models. You can expect to find things like a large touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a reversing camera, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trim levels add even more goodies, such as a premium sound system, leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof. The infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, with a clear and easy-to-navigate interface. The touchscreen is large and easy to read, and the physical buttons for key functions, such as climate control, are a welcome touch. The ADAS features work well, providing an extra layer of safety and convenience. Adaptive cruise control makes long journeys more relaxing, while lane-keeping assist helps to prevent unintentional lane departures. Overall, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is a practical and well-equipped SUV that's perfect for families and anyone who needs a spacious and versatile vehicle. The combination of space, features, and technology makes it a compelling choice in the competitive SUV market.

Interior Space and Comfort

The interior of the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is designed to provide a comfortable and spacious environment for both drivers and passengers. The cabin offers ample legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats, ensuring a comfortable journey for everyone. The seats are well-contoured and supportive, providing excellent comfort even on long drives. The materials used in the interior are of high quality, creating a premium feel. The dashboard and door panels are soft-touch, adding to the overall sense of luxury. The Santa Fe PHEV's interior design is both stylish and functional, with a focus on practicality. The center console offers plenty of storage space, including cup holders and a large storage bin. The rear seats are designed to be easily accessible, with ample legroom for passengers. The rear seats can also be folded down to provide additional cargo space, making the Santa Fe PHEV a versatile vehicle. The car's sound insulation is excellent, minimizing road and wind noise and creating a quiet and serene cabin. The Santa Fe PHEV's interior is a comfortable and inviting space, making it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a family road trip.

Infotainment and Technology

The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is equipped with a range of advanced technologies to enhance the driving experience and provide convenience. The centerpiece of the car's infotainment system is a large touchscreen display, which provides access to navigation, audio, and vehicle settings. The touchscreen interface is user-friendly and responsive, making it easy to navigate through various features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allows seamless smartphone connectivity, providing access to apps, music, and other features on your smartphone. The Santa Fe PHEV also features a digital instrument cluster, providing clear and concise information about the car's performance and status. The car's driver-assistance systems include a suite of advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These systems enhance safety and provide an extra layer of protection for drivers and passengers. The Santa Fe PHEV also offers a range of connectivity features, such as Bluetooth and USB ports, allowing you to connect your devices and enjoy your favorite music and podcasts. The car's technology features are designed to enhance the overall driving experience, providing convenience, safety, and entertainment. The integration of advanced technology makes the Santa Fe PHEV a modern and sophisticated vehicle.

Real-World Fuel Economy and Charging

Let's be realistic, folks. One of the biggest questions with any PHEV is, “What about the fuel economy and charging?” The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV boasts impressive official figures, but how does it perform in the real world? In general, expect a real-world electric range of around 30-40 miles on a full charge, which is plenty for the average daily commute. This means you could potentially do most of your daily driving on electric power alone, significantly reducing your fuel costs and emissions. Of course, the actual range will vary depending on factors such as driving style, road conditions, and the use of climate control.

Charging the Santa Fe PHEV is relatively straightforward. You can charge it at home using a standard three-pin plug, but this will take a while (around 5-6 hours for a full charge). A faster option is to install a dedicated wall charger, which can significantly reduce the charging time to around 2-3 hours. Public charging stations are also available, offering even faster charging speeds. You can usually find these stations at supermarkets, shopping centers, and other public locations. The Santa Fe PHEV also features regenerative braking, which helps to recapture energy and extend the electric range. This system automatically recharges the battery when you decelerate or brake, further improving fuel efficiency. The overall fuel economy will depend on how you use the car. If you regularly charge and primarily drive on electric power, you can expect excellent fuel economy. If you rely more on the petrol engine, the fuel economy will be similar to a conventional petrol SUV. The key is to make the most of the electric range to maximize fuel savings and minimize emissions. This combination of efficiency and flexibility makes the Santa Fe PHEV a smart choice for eco-conscious drivers.

Electric Range and Efficiency

The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV offers a commendable electric range, allowing drivers to travel a significant distance on electric power alone. The official electric range of the Santa Fe PHEV is impressive, but the real-world range can vary depending on driving conditions and other factors. In general, drivers can expect to achieve an electric range of around 30-40 miles on a full charge, which is sufficient for most daily commutes and errands. This allows drivers to reduce their reliance on the petrol engine and enjoy zero-emission driving. The electric motor provides instant torque and smooth acceleration, enhancing the driving experience. The Santa Fe PHEV's efficiency is further enhanced by its regenerative braking system, which captures energy during deceleration and braking, recharging the battery. The car also features different driving modes, allowing drivers to optimize the car's performance and efficiency. In electric mode, the car operates solely on electric power, providing a quiet and emission-free driving experience. In hybrid mode, the car seamlessly switches between electric and petrol power, optimizing fuel efficiency. The Santa Fe PHEV's impressive electric range and overall efficiency make it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice for drivers.

Charging Options and Times

Charging the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is a straightforward process, with a variety of charging options available to suit different needs. The most convenient option is to charge the car at home, using a standard three-pin plug or a dedicated wall charger. Charging with a standard three-pin plug will take around 5-6 hours for a full charge, while a wall charger can significantly reduce the charging time to around 2-3 hours. Public charging stations are also widely available, offering even faster charging speeds. These stations can be found at supermarkets, shopping centers, and other public locations. The Santa Fe PHEV is compatible with various charging standards, including AC charging. The car's charging port is located conveniently on the side of the vehicle, making it easy to connect to a charging source. The car's infotainment system provides information on the charging status, allowing drivers to monitor the charging process. The Santa Fe PHEV's charging options provide flexibility and convenience, making it easy for drivers to keep their car charged and ready to go. Whether you choose to charge at home or at a public charging station, the Santa Fe PHEV's charging process is simple and hassle-free.

Value for Money and Verdict

Alright, let's cut to the chase: is the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV a good value for your money? The Santa Fe PHEV sits in a competitive market, and it's priced accordingly. It typically costs more than the petrol-only Santa Fe, but you're getting the added benefits of electric power, lower running costs (if you charge regularly), and potentially lower road tax. When considering value, think about your driving habits and whether you can realistically take advantage of the electric range. If you have a short commute and access to home charging, you could save a significant amount on fuel costs. If you frequently drive long distances, the savings might be less noticeable.

The Santa Fe PHEV is well-equipped, offering a comprehensive set of features and technology. It also comes with Hyundai's excellent warranty, which provides peace of mind. Compared to its rivals, the Santa Fe PHEV offers a compelling package. It balances performance, practicality, and efficiency, making it a strong contender in the PHEV SUV market. The overall verdict? The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is a well-rounded and capable SUV that offers a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and efficiency. It is definitely worth considering if you're looking for a spacious, eco-friendly SUV. So, would I recommend it? Absolutely! Especially if you can charge at home and you prioritize fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving experience. The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is a strong contender in the PHEV SUV market and offers excellent value for money. The car's combination of features, performance, and efficiency makes it a smart choice for those seeking a practical and environmentally conscious vehicle.

Pricing and Trim Levels

The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is available in various trim levels, offering different features and options to suit individual preferences and budgets. The base trim level typically offers a comprehensive set of standard features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a range of connectivity options. Higher trim levels add more premium features, such as leather upholstery, a premium sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. The pricing of the Santa Fe PHEV varies depending on the trim level and any optional extras. However, the Santa Fe PHEV is competitively priced within the PHEV SUV market, offering excellent value for money. The car's pricing reflects its comprehensive features, advanced technology, and efficient performance. Hyundai also offers various financing options, making the Santa Fe PHEV accessible to a wider range of buyers. The car's trim levels and pricing allow buyers to customize their Santa Fe PHEV to their specific needs and preferences. The Santa Fe PHEV's value is further enhanced by its impressive warranty, which provides peace of mind and protects against unexpected repairs.

Pros and Cons

Let's break down the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV into its pros and cons to provide a balanced overview.

Pros:

• Spacious and Practical: The Santa Fe PHEV offers a generous amount of space for passengers and luggage, making it ideal for families. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable journey for everyone. The boot is also spacious, with plenty of room for luggage and other cargo.
• Refined Driving Experience: The Santa Fe PHEV provides a smooth and refined driving experience. The electric motor delivers instant torque, providing brisk acceleration from a standstill. The petrol engine seamlessly integrates with the electric motor, ensuring a smooth transition between power sources. The car's suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road.
• Good Fuel Economy: The Santa Fe PHEV offers excellent fuel economy, especially when driven primarily on electric power. The electric motor allows for zero-emission driving, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The car's regenerative braking system further enhances fuel efficiency, capturing energy during deceleration and braking.
• Well-Equipped: The Santa Fe PHEV comes well-equipped with a range of standard features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a suite of connectivity options. Higher trim levels add more premium features, such as leather upholstery and a premium sound system.
• Competitive Pricing: The Santa Fe PHEV is competitively priced within the PHEV SUV market, offering excellent value for money. The car's pricing reflects its comprehensive features, advanced technology, and efficient performance.
• Long Warranty: Hyundai offers a long warranty, providing buyers with peace of mind.

Cons:

• Higher Purchase Price: The Santa Fe PHEV typically costs more than the petrol-only Santa Fe.
• Charging Required: To take full advantage of the PHEV's benefits, you need to be able to charge it regularly.
• Real-World Range Variations: The electric range can vary depending on driving conditions and driving style.
• Boot Space Reduction: The PHEV system can reduce the boot space slightly compared to the standard Santa Fe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a spacious, comfortable, and efficient SUV. It delivers a great driving experience, is packed with features, and offers a compelling value proposition. If you’re considering a PHEV, the Santa Fe should definitely be on your list. Make sure to consider your driving needs and charging capabilities to see if it’s the right fit for you. Thanks for reading, and happy motoring!