Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV UK Review: Is It Worth It?

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) here in the UK. This SUV has been making waves, promising a blend of eco-friendliness, practicality, and performance. But is it all it's cracked up to be? Is the Santa Fe PHEV the right choice for you and your family? We're going to break down everything from the driving experience and fuel efficiency to the interior space and tech features, so you can make an informed decision. Get ready for an in-depth Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV review UK style! We'll cover everything from real-world range to charging times and even touch on how it compares to its rivals in the increasingly competitive plug-in hybrid SUV market. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Driving Experience: How Does the Santa Fe PHEV Perform?

Alright, let's talk about the driving experience. This is crucial, right? No one wants a car that's a drag to drive. The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV offers a pretty smooth and refined experience overall. The combination of the electric motor and the petrol engine generally works seamlessly, although you might notice a slight transition when the engine kicks in, especially during harder acceleration. It's not a deal-breaker, but it's something to be aware of.

Around town, the electric motor is your best friend. It provides instant torque, making for brisk acceleration from a standstill and easy maneuvering in tight spots. You can typically drive for a decent distance on electric power alone – we'll get into the specifics of the electric range later. The steering is light and precise, which is great for urban driving and parking. The suspension is tuned for comfort, so it soaks up bumps and imperfections in the road pretty well. It's not a sports car, mind you, so don't expect razor-sharp handling, but it's perfectly capable and enjoyable for everyday driving.

On the motorway, the Santa Fe PHEV cruises comfortably. The petrol engine provides ample power for overtaking and maintaining speed. The cabin is relatively quiet, with road and wind noise kept to a minimum. The car feels stable and planted at higher speeds, which inspires confidence. The driving modes allow you to customize your experience. You can choose between Hybrid mode (where the car switches between electric and petrol power as needed), EV mode (for pure electric driving), and Sport mode (for enhanced performance). There's also a 'HEV' mode which prioritizes using the petrol engine to charge the battery.

One thing to consider is the weight. As a plug-in hybrid, the Santa Fe PHEV has a battery pack, which adds weight compared to the standard petrol or diesel versions. You might notice this, particularly in corners, where the car might feel a little less agile. However, the benefits of the electric motor – the smooth power delivery and the potential for zero-emission driving – far outweigh this minor drawback for many drivers. Overall, the driving experience is positive. The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV offers a comfortable, refined, and practical driving experience that's well-suited to a variety of driving situations. It's a great option for families who want a car that can handle both city commutes and long journeys. And, let's face it, that instant electric torque is addictive!

Fuel Efficiency and Electric Range: What Can You Expect?

Now, let's talk about the numbers – specifically, fuel efficiency and electric range. This is where the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV really shines, at least in theory. The official WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) figures claim a pretty impressive electric range. However, real-world figures can vary depending on your driving style, the terrain, and the weather conditions. In the UK, you can expect a real-world electric range of somewhere between 30 and 40 miles on a full charge. This is usually more than enough for the average daily commute and errands, meaning you could potentially do most of your driving on electric power, drastically reducing your fuel costs and emissions.

The petrol engine helps eliminate range anxiety for those longer journeys, ensuring you’re not limited to electric-only driving. The car seamlessly switches between electric and petrol power, ensuring you always have enough power to get where you need to go. In Hybrid mode, the car intelligently manages the power sources to optimize fuel efficiency. This is super convenient! The fuel economy when running in hybrid mode is also pretty decent. You can expect to achieve a good miles-per-gallon (MPG) figure, especially if you regularly charge the battery and utilize the electric range.

Of course, the exact MPG will depend on how you drive and the type of journeys you undertake. If you frequently drive on the motorway at high speeds, you'll likely see lower MPG figures. But if your driving mostly involves shorter journeys and you can regularly charge at home or at work, the fuel savings can be substantial. It's worth noting that the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV has regenerative braking, which helps to recapture energy and feed it back into the battery. This can further improve fuel efficiency, especially in stop-start traffic or when driving downhill. For anyone considering buying this car, the charging times are really important. Using a standard domestic charger (a 3.3kW charger), it can take around 5 hours to fully charge the battery. With a faster charger (like a 7kW wall box), this time is reduced to around 3.5 hours. So, make sure you consider these charging times when evaluating whether the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is the right choice for you and your lifestyle.

Interior and Practicality: Is the Santa Fe PHEV Family-Friendly?

Let’s jump inside and see what's on offer inside the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV. The interior is a comfortable and well-designed space. The materials feel of good quality, and the overall fit and finish are impressive. The dashboard layout is clean and uncluttered, with a large touchscreen infotainment system taking center stage. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on longer journeys. You can choose from a range of trim levels, with each offering a different level of features and luxury.

One of the biggest selling points of the Santa Fe, in general, is its practicality, and the PHEV version is no exception. There’s ample space for passengers in both the front and rear. Legroom and headroom are generous, even for taller adults. The rear seats are also very comfortable, making it a great option for families. The boot space is also impressive, although it's slightly reduced compared to the non-PHEV versions due to the battery pack. But there's still plenty of space for luggage, groceries, or whatever you need to carry. You can easily fit several large suitcases or a pushchair. The rear seats fold down to create even more cargo space if needed.

There are plenty of storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a large center console, door pockets, and a glove compartment. This is super helpful for keeping the car tidy and organized. The Santa Fe PHEV is packed with tech features. The touchscreen infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use. It includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. There's also a digital instrument cluster, which displays important driving information. The car also features a host of driver-assistance systems, like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. These features make driving safer and more convenient. The overall interior experience is positive. The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV offers a comfortable, practical, and well-equipped interior that’s perfect for families. The spacious cabin, generous boot space, and long list of features make it a great choice for those seeking a versatile and family-friendly SUV. And, the quality and design make you feel like you're driving something special.

Technology and Features: What Tech Does the Santa Fe PHEV Pack?

Okay, let's nerd out on the technology and features inside the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV! Hyundai has loaded this SUV with a bunch of tech to make your life easier and more enjoyable. The centerpiece is the large touchscreen infotainment system. This screen is your control hub for everything from navigation and media to vehicle settings. The graphics are clear and the interface is intuitive. It's really easy to find what you need.

As mentioned earlier, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, so you can seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your apps, music, and navigation directly on the screen. There is a digital instrument cluster, which displays all the important driving information in a clear and customizable format. You can choose different display modes to suit your preference. A wireless charging pad for your smartphone is also included. Other available features include a premium sound system, a head-up display that projects key information onto the windscreen, and a surround-view camera system for easier parking. The Santa Fe PHEV also comes with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems, designed to enhance safety and make driving easier. These include adaptive cruise control (which maintains a set distance from the car in front), lane-keeping assist (which helps to keep you in your lane), blind-spot monitoring (which alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots), and automatic emergency braking (which can help to prevent or mitigate collisions).

Hyundai has really focused on making the technology easy to use and seamlessly integrated into the driving experience. The infotainment system is responsive and intuitive, and the driver-assistance systems are sophisticated but not intrusive. The technology in the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV enhances both the convenience and safety of the driving experience. This makes the car a great choice for anyone looking for a modern and well-equipped SUV. They've really made the tech user-friendly, which is a big win!

Trim Levels and Pricing: Which Santa Fe PHEV is Right for You?

Let’s break down the trim levels and pricing, because let’s face it, that's what we want to know, right? The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is usually offered in a few different trim levels, each with its own set of features and price point. Keep in mind that the exact trim levels and pricing may vary slightly depending on the year and the specific dealer. You'll generally find entry-level models that offer a good balance of features and value, but the higher trim levels add more premium features and upgrades. Typically, entry-level models will come with a solid set of standard features. You can expect things like the touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a suite of driver-assistance systems, and a decent level of comfort and convenience features. Mid-range trim levels usually build on the base models by adding features like upgraded upholstery, larger alloy wheels, a premium sound system, and some additional technology features.

The top-of-the-line trim levels offer the most luxurious experience. These can include features like leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, and a more comprehensive set of driver-assistance systems. The price of the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV will, of course, vary depending on the trim level you choose and any optional extras you select. Generally speaking, the PHEV version will be more expensive than the standard petrol or diesel versions due to the added cost of the battery and electric motor. However, the potential savings on fuel costs and the availability of government incentives (like the Plug-in Car Grant, if available) can help offset the higher purchase price. It's always a good idea to check the latest pricing information and compare the different trim levels before making a decision. Consider what features are important to you and how much you're willing to spend. Do your research, compare the specs, and see what the dealers are offering! Make sure to check what incentives are available to help bring the cost down.

Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV: Pros and Cons

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. What are the good and bad points of the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV? Here's a quick rundown:

Pros:

• Eco-Friendly: Significantly reduces emissions, especially when driven in electric mode.
• Fuel Efficiency: Great MPG figures, especially for daily commutes when using electric power.
• Spacious Interior: Plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
• Comfortable Ride: Smooth and refined driving experience.
• Well-Equipped: Comes with a good level of tech and features.

Cons:

• Price: More expensive than the standard petrol or diesel versions.
• Weight: The battery adds weight, which can slightly affect handling.
• Charging Time: Can take a few hours to fully charge (depending on the charger).
• Boot Space: Boot capacity is slightly reduced compared to the standard models.

Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV vs. Competitors: How Does it Stack Up?

How does the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV measure up against its rivals? The plug-in hybrid SUV market is getting increasingly competitive, so it's important to see how the Santa Fe stacks up against the competition. Some of its key rivals in the UK market include the Kia Sorento PHEV (which shares a lot of the same mechanicals as the Santa Fe), the Volvo XC60 Recharge, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, and the Peugeot 3008 PHEV.

Compared to the Kia Sorento PHEV, the Santa Fe offers a similar level of practicality, a spacious interior, and a comparable electric range. The choice between these two often comes down to personal preference in terms of styling and features. The Volvo XC60 Recharge is a premium offering that generally provides a more luxurious interior and a higher level of technology. However, it also comes with a higher price tag. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV was one of the early pioneers in the plug-in hybrid SUV market. It's a more affordable option, but it doesn't offer the same level of refinement or technology as the Santa Fe. The Peugeot 3008 PHEV provides a stylish and well-equipped interior, but its electric range may be slightly shorter than that of the Santa Fe. The Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is a strong contender in this segment. It offers a good balance of practicality, performance, and value. Its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive electric range make it a compelling choice for families. Its competitive pricing and long list of standard features also help it stand out from the competition.

Conclusion: Is the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV Right for You?

So, is the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV worth it? The answer is: it depends on your needs and priorities. If you're looking for a practical, spacious, and fuel-efficient SUV that's also environmentally friendly, then the Santa Fe PHEV is definitely worth considering. It's a great choice for families who want to reduce their emissions and save money on fuel costs. The comfortable driving experience, long list of features, and stylish design are all appealing. However, if you're on a tight budget or if you prioritize outright performance and handling, then you might want to look at other options. The slightly higher price compared to the standard petrol or diesel versions, as well as the added weight, might not be ideal for everyone. Consider your driving habits, charging availability, and budget when making your decision. If you can regularly charge at home or at work and you frequently drive short distances, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV could be an excellent choice. Overall, the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is a well-rounded and compelling plug-in hybrid SUV. It offers a great blend of practicality, performance, and eco-friendliness. If you are in the market for a plug-in hybrid SUV, this car needs to be at the top of your list to check out. Happy driving!