2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD: Review, Specs & More!
Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the new 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD. This isn't just another SUV; it's a complete redesign that's turning heads and sparking conversations. We're going to explore everything from its stunning exterior and luxurious interior to its performance, technology, and overall value. Whether you're a long-time Hyundai fan or just starting your SUV search, buckle up – this review is for you!
Exterior Design: A Bold New Look
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD boasts a radical exterior redesign that sets it apart from its predecessors. Gone are the soft curves; in their place, we find a bold, boxy silhouette that exudes confidence and modernity. The upright stance and squared-off wheel arches give it a rugged, almost Land Rover-esque appearance, signaling a departure from the typical family SUV aesthetic.
Front Fascia
The front fascia is dominated by a striking new grille design, flanked by distinctive H-shaped LED headlights. These headlights not only provide excellent illumination but also serve as a signature design element, making the Santa Fe instantly recognizable. The lower bumper integrates seamlessly with the overall design, incorporating functional air intakes and a skid plate for added visual appeal. The attention to detail in the front end is remarkable, creating a sense of sophistication and purpose.
Side Profile
Moving to the side, the 2025 Santa Fe SEL AWD showcases its strong character lines and prominent shoulder line. The squared-off wheel arches accentuate the vehicle's width and stability, while the available alloy wheel designs add a touch of elegance. The panoramic sunroof (available on higher trims) enhances the sense of spaciousness and light within the cabin. The longer wheelbase contributes to a more comfortable ride and increased rear passenger legroom, addressing a common concern in previous models.
Rear Design
The rear of the 2025 Santa Fe SEL AWD is just as distinctive as the front, featuring H-shaped LED taillights that mirror the headlight design. The tailgate is wide and offers easy access to the cargo area, which has been significantly increased compared to the previous generation. The rear bumper is clean and uncluttered, with integrated reflectors and a subtle skid plate. Overall, the exterior design of the 2025 Santa Fe is a bold statement, signaling Hyundai's commitment to innovation and style.
Interior Comfort and Technology: A Step Above
Step inside the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD, and you'll be greeted by a cabin that's both luxurious and technologically advanced. The interior design is a significant upgrade from the previous generation, with premium materials, thoughtful ergonomics, and a host of cutting-edge features. Hyundai has clearly focused on creating a comfortable and connected environment for both the driver and passengers.
Seating and Materials
The seats in the SEL AWD trim are upholstered in high-quality leatherette, providing a comfortable and supportive seating experience. The front seats are power-adjustable and offer lumbar support, ensuring optimal comfort on long drives. The second-row seats are spacious and offer ample legroom, even for taller adults. The reclining feature adds to the comfort, making it ideal for road trips. The use of soft-touch materials throughout the cabin enhances the sense of luxury and refinement. The dashboard and door panels are wrapped in premium materials, and the stitching details add a touch of elegance. The overall fit and finish are excellent, reflecting Hyundai's commitment to quality.
Technology and Connectivity
The 2025 Santa Fe SEL AWD is packed with technology, starting with the 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This system is intuitive and easy to use, with crisp graphics and responsive touch controls. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration with your smartphone. The available Bose premium audio system delivers exceptional sound quality, enhancing the overall driving experience. Other notable features include a wireless charging pad, multiple USB ports, and a digital key system that allows you to use your smartphone as a key.
Safety Features
Hyundai has always prioritized safety, and the 2025 Santa Fe SEL AWD is no exception. It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These features work together to help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe. The blind-spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert provide added peace of mind when changing lanes or backing out of parking spaces. The available surround-view monitor gives you a 360-degree view of your surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier than ever. The heads-up display projects important information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road.
Performance and Handling: Smooth and Confident
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD offers a refined driving experience, thanks to its smooth engine and responsive handling. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivers ample power for everyday driving, while the available turbocharged engine provides even more performance for those who want it. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to the overall driving comfort.
Engine Options
The 2025 Santa Fe SEL AWD is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, offering a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. For those who want more power, a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is available, producing 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivers brisk acceleration and makes the Santa Fe feel more responsive and engaging to drive.
Ride and Handling
The 2025 Santa Fe SEL AWD offers a comfortable and composed ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. It absorbs bumps and road imperfections with ease, providing a smooth and stable driving experience. The steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver the Santa Fe in tight spaces. The all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability in slippery conditions, making it a great choice for those who live in areas with snow or rain. The brakes are strong and provide confident stopping power. Overall, the Santa Fe offers a refined and enjoyable driving experience that is well-suited to both city and highway driving.
Fuel Economy
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD offers competitive fuel economy for its class. The standard 2.5-liter engine is estimated to deliver around 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged engine offers slightly lower fuel economy, with estimates of around 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. These figures are respectable for a midsize SUV and make the Santa Fe a practical choice for those who are concerned about fuel costs.
Overall Value: A Smart Choice
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD represents excellent value for money. It offers a combination of stylish design, luxurious interior, advanced technology, and refined driving experience at a competitive price point. Compared to its rivals, the Santa Fe offers more features and better value, making it a smart choice for those who are looking for a midsize SUV. Hyundai's strong warranty and reputation for reliability further enhance the ownership experience.
Pricing and Trims
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is available in a variety of trims, each offering a different level of features and equipment. The base SE trim starts at around $30,000, while the top-of-the-line Limited trim can cost upwards of $45,000. The SEL AWD trim, which is the focus of this review, offers a good balance of features and price, making it a popular choice among buyers. The price includes a long list of standard features, such as the 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a suite of advanced safety features.
Competitors
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe competes with other midsize SUVs such as the Toyota Highlander, Honda Passport, Kia Sorento, and Mazda CX-9. While each of these vehicles has its strengths, the Santa Fe stands out for its stylish design, luxurious interior, and advanced technology. It also offers a better value proposition than many of its rivals, making it a compelling choice for those who are looking for a midsize SUV.
Conclusion: Is the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD Right for You?
So, is the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD the right SUV for you? If you're looking for a stylish, spacious, and technologically advanced SUV that offers great value for money, then the answer is likely yes. The Santa Fe's bold new design, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience make it a standout in its class. Whether you're commuting to work, hauling the family around, or embarking on a road trip, the Santa Fe is up to the task. With its comprehensive suite of safety features, you can drive with confidence knowing that you and your passengers are well-protected. Overall, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is a well-rounded SUV that offers something for everyone.
We hope this review has been helpful. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions, and don't forget to subscribe for more automotive content!
