The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT AWD SUV receives numerous improvements as it enters its fifth-generation of production in the United States.
Most notably, a new, longer wheelbase that incorporates standard third-row seating for up to seven adults. Other tweaks include s standard 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, expansive lift gate opening, and premium features like dual wireless charging and a panoramic curved-glass infotainment display.
“The original Santa Fe was our very first SUV in the U.S. more than two decades ago,” said José Muñoz, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor North America. “Today, we have a well-recognized and respected portfolio of 14 SUV models that include internal combustion engine, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric models.
With the new Santa Fe, we continue our impressive transformation of the Hyundai brand and the broader SUV landscape. Our newest Santa Fe will attract even more customers with its bold, distinctive design identity, spacious interior design, and unique ability to fuse urban customer lifestyles with the natural outside environment.”
The new direct-injected turbocharged power plant delivers 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with wet dual clutch and paddle shifters. The combo is rated at a maximum 4,500 pound towing capacity, and 23 miles per gallon fuel economy in combined city and highway driving.
XRT, making its global debut, is an outdoor-focused sport model tailored to the diverse needs of enthusiasts. It is designed to handle adverse terrain with confidence and ease, offering versatile utility for various outdoor activities. Complementing the Santa Fe Calligraphy trim for premium urban lifestyles, the XRT is designed to satisfy adventure-oriented enthusiasts with confident capabilities.
This latest-generation XRT model adds dark chrome and black trim elements and cladding throughout the exterior, including black roof rails, for a rugged, ready-for-adventure appearance. It also adds a 30-inch all-terrain tires mounted on 245/60R18 tires. XRT boasts nearly 1.5 inches of additional ground clearance from its predecessor.
Leveraging its longer wheelbase, Santa Fe offers superior interior space for passenger comfort. Fully foldable second- and third-row seats create a terrace-like space at the rear lift gate opening, enabling users to effortlessly enjoy outdoor surroundings. It also accommodates the latest outdoor lifestyle trends, such as car camping and gear-intensive outdoor adventures.
Creature comforts are supplied in abundance. My favorites were the 12.3-inch navigation system, wireless Apple CarPly and Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB ports, AC power outlet, dual auto temperature control, Bose premium audio system with 12 speakers, and heated front seats.
Active driver assistance and safety features provide driving confidence. A host of driving assistance and safety features help reduce user fatigue and provide a comfortable, confident driving experience whether commuting or on a weekend adventure.
Available features such as forward collision-avoidance assist can help provide a warning and emergency braking if the preceding vehicle suddenly slows or if risk of a forward collision is detected. Lane-following assist employs a windshield-mounted camera to help the vehicle maintain its position in the center of its lane. And a driver attention warning system analyzes driving inputs and can help provide warnings to alert the driver of low driving attentiveness.
Base Price: $41,995
Price As Driven: $42,205
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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