The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe comes in three distinct versions: XRT, Luxury, and Ultimate Calligraphy. These models offer a range of features and functionalities to meet the varied needs of drivers, whether they prioritize adventure, luxury, or a premium driving experience. In this article, we explore the key differences between these three versions in terms of price, fuel economy, exterior and interior features, technologies, and driving assistance functions.
Price Differences
The Santa Fe XRT AWD is the most affordable option, with a starting price of $47,999, while the Luxury AWD model starts at $50,999. For those seeking a premium experience, the Ultimate Calligraphy AWD starts at $54,799. The price differences reflect variations in materials, technologies, and equipment, offering a progression in luxury and sophistication with each trim level.
Fuel Economy Differences
All three models offer similar performance in terms of fuel efficiency, with slight variations. The Santa Fe XRT has a combined fuel consumption of 10.8 L/100 km, while the Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy consume slightly less at 10.6 L/100 km. On the highway, the Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy versions stand out with a consumption of 8.8 L/100 km, compared to 9.1 L/100 km for the XRT.
Exterior Features
The exterior design evolves significantly from one model to another. The Santa Fe XRT focuses on a rugged style with 18-inch black wheels and all-terrain tires, ideal for adventure. The Luxury AWD, on the other hand, adopts a more refined look with 20-inch wheels featuring painted accents. Finally, the Ultimate Calligraphy AWD reaches a peak of elegance with 21-inch black wheels and a distinctive finish.
In terms of height, the XRT stands out with a higher profile at 1,795 mm, while the Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy have slightly lower profiles, at 1,770 mm and 1,780 mm, respectively, accentuating their urban and sophisticated style.
Interior Comfort
The interior of the Santa Fe improves with each trim level. The XRT offers synthetic leather upholstery and front heated seats. The Luxury adds genuine leather seating, rear heated seats, and 4-way lumbar support controls for the driver. The Ultimate Calligraphy impresses with Nappa leather upholstery, front ventilated seats, and bucket seats in the rear for superior comfort.
The Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy versions also include an electric rear sunshade, which is absent on the XRT model, offering better protection from sunlight and increased privacy.
Interior Amenities
Interior amenities expand with each trim level. The Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy add features such as a glass sunroof for the second row, which is absent on the XRT. The Ultimate Calligraphy includes premium technologies such as a heads-up display and rain-sensing wipers, optimizing the driving experience in all conditions.
A HomeLink garage door opener and ambient interior lighting are added to the Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy models, further highlighting their commitment to luxury and practicality.
Tires and Wheel Dimensions
The dimensions and types of wheels also vary across the models. The XRT comes equipped with P245/60T18 all-terrain tires, ideal for off-road adventures. The Luxury, with its P255/45T20 all-season tires, offers the perfect balance of comfort and road performance. The Ultimate Calligraphy, in turn, is fitted with P245/45T21 tires for optimal road handling and a premium style.
Infotainment System
The infotainment system also varies by trim level. The XRT offers a basic system with 6 speakers, while the Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy include an integrated navigation system with voice activation and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. The Ultimate Calligraphy surpasses the others with a 12-speaker Bose audio system, offering an immersive sound experience.
Lighting and Driving Assistance Features
Lighting and driving assistance features are particularly advanced in the Ultimate Calligraphy. While the XRT and Luxury offer basic lighting functions, the Ultimate Calligraphy introduces advanced features like a video rearview mirror and advanced Forward Attention Warning.
For parking assistance, only the Ultimate Calligraphy is equipped with Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA), making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
Dimensions Table
Model
|
Height (mm)
|
Front Track (mm)
|
Rear Track (mm)
|
XRT AWD
|
1,795
|
1,646
|
1,656
|
Luxury AWD
|
1,770
|
1,637
|
1,647
|
Ultimate Calligraphy AWD
|
1,780
|
1,643
|
1,653
|
Conclusion
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe stands out with its three versions tailored to different needs. The XRT is perfect for adventure enthusiasts, while the Luxury strikes a perfect balance between comfort and style. Finally, the Ultimate Calligraphy is for drivers seeking unparalleled luxury and cutting-edge technologies. Each model reflects Hyundai's commitment to offering versatile and sophisticated vehicles for all types of drivers.