Comparing the 2025 Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid SEL vs Santa Fe Limited vs Santa Fe Calligraphy: Which Version of this Hybrid SUV is Better?

The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid combines the versatility you need with the efficiency you want, all in a beautifully designed midsize SUV. With its sleek exterior design, premium interior, and advanced hybrid powertrain, the Santa Fe Hybrid proves you don’t have to choose between sustainability and style.

Explore the three trim levels here to find the one that’s right for you and your family!

Vehicles	2025 Santa Fe SEL	2025 Santa Fe Limited	2025 Santa Fe Calligraphy
MSRP*	$37,200	$44,100	$47,250
Body Style	3-Row SUV	3-Row SUV	3-Row SUV
Drivetrain	AWD (FWD entry level option available)	AWD (FWD entry level option available)	AWD (FWD entry level option available)
Engine	1.6L Turbocharged GDI 4- Cylinder Hybrid (gas/electric)	1.6L Turbocharged GDI 4- Cylinder Hybrid (gas/electric)	1.6L Turbocharged GDI 4- Cylinder Hybrid (gas/electric)
Transmission	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic
Horsepower (Combined Hybrid System)	231 hp	231 hp	231 hp
Torque (Combined Hybrid System)	271 lb.-ft. @ 1,000 – 4,100 RPM	271 lb.-ft. @ 1,000 – 4,100 RPM	271 lb.-ft. @ 1,000 – 4,100 RPM
Fuel Type	Plug-In Hybrid (both gasoline fueled & battery operated)	Plug-In Hybrid (both gasoline fueled & battery operated)	Plug-In Hybrid (both gasoline fueled & battery operated)
Fuel (MPG)	35 city / 34 hwy / 34 combined	35 city / 34 hwy / 34 combined	35 city / 34 hwy / 34 combined
Tank Capacity	17.7 gallon	17.7 gallon	17.7 gallon
Electric Components
Torque (Electric System)	195 lb.-ft.	195 lb.-ft.	195 lb.-ft.
Power output (Electric System)	44.2 kW (60 hp) @ 1600–2100 rpm	44.2 kW (60 hp) @ 1600–2100 rpm	44.2 kW (60 hp) @ 1600–2100 rpm
Battery Type (Electric System)	Lithium ion 270 Volt	Lithium ion 270 Volt	Lithium ion 270 Volt
Battery System Capacity (Electric System)	1.49 kWh	1.49 kWh	1.49 kWh
Space & Comfort
Passenger Volume	151 cu.ft.	151 cu.ft.	151 cu.ft.
Seating Capacity	7	7	6
Cargo Capacity (all seats down)	14.6 cu.ft.	14.6 cu.ft.	14.6 cu.ft.
Cargo Volume to Seat 1 (both 2nd-row and 3rd-row upright)	79.6 cu.ft.	79.6 cu.ft.	79.6 cu.ft.
Cargo Volume to Seat 2 (2nd-row upright and 3rd-row down)	40.5 cu.ft.	40.5 cu.ft.	40.5 cu.ft.
Cargo Volume to Seat 3 (2nd-row and 3rd-row seats upright / trunk space)	14.6 cu.ft.	14.6 cu.ft.	14.6 cu.ft.
Front Headroom	41.1 in.	41.1 in.	41.1 in.
Front Legroom	44.4 in.	44.4 in.	44.4 in.
Second Headroom	40.6 in	40.6 in	40.6 in
Second Legroom	41.5 in.	41.5 in.	41.5 in.
Third Row Headroom	37.7 in.	37.7 in.	37.7 in.
Third Row Legroom	30.0 in..	30.0 in.	30.0 in.
Size & Additional Specs

Height	69.7 in.	69.7 in.	69.7 in.
Length	190.2 in.	190.2 in.	190.2 in.
Overall Width (w/o mirrors)	74.8 in.	74.8 in.	74.8 in.
Turning Diameter	37.9 ft.	37.9 ft.	37.9 ft.
Wheelbase	110.8 in.	110.8 in.	110.8 in.
Curb Weight	4,575 lbs.	4,575 lbs.	4,575 lbs.
Towing Capacity	2,000 lbs.	2,000 lbs.	2,000 lbs.
Roof Rails Load Capacity	220 lbs.	220 lbs.	220 lbs.
Wheels	18 in. alloy wheels	20 in. alloy wheels	20 in. dark finish alloy wheels

Recognition

New Features

What’s New for the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid

No major changes for model year 2025
Part of fifth-generation Santa Fe, which was introduced in 2024

Advantages & Disadvantages of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid

2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid Advantages

Bold exterior design with signature design elements
Spacious cabin with best-in-class cargo capacity
Versatile seven-passenger seating with standard third-row

Possible Disadvantage

Departure from previous design may not appeal to previous buyers

Best Trim Level

Starting at $37,200 MSRP, the SEL trim delivers exceptional value. When you step up to the hybrid powertrain, you’ll find that the minimal price premium pays off with impressive fuel savings, while maintaining the Santa Fe’s refined driving character.

Trim Levels MSRP*

SEL $37,200

Limited $44,100

Calligraphy $47,250

Santa Fe SEL Package

12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment
3-row seating
Wireless device charging in the front
Hyundai Digital Key App
Wireless Android Auto™ & Apple CarPlay®

Santa Fe Limited Package

12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment
3-row seating
Wireless device charging near the front seats
Remote Start Assist (start the car with your keyfob)
Blind Spot View Monitor
Hyundai Digital Key App
6-way power passenger seat
Leather-trimmed seats
Heated rear seats
12 speaker Bose® premium audio
Wireless Android Auto™ & Apple CarPlay®
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
Sunroof/moonroof

Santa Fe Calligraphy Package

Nappa leather-trimmed seating
20-inch alloy wheels
Second row captain’s chairs
Remote Start Assist
12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment
3-row seating
Wireless device charging near front seats
Remote Start Assist (start the car with the keyfob)
Blind Spot View Monitor
Hyundai Digital Key App
6-way power passenger seat
Heated rear seats
12 speaker Bose® premium audio
Wireless Android Auto™ & Apple CarPlay®
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
Sunroof/moonroof

Performance

Acceleration and Power
- 0-60 MPH Time: Accelerates from 0 to 60 MPH in 8.3 seconds.
- Transmission:
  - Equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission.
  - Shifts quickly and smoothly.
- Engine Power:
  - Starts from a stop quickly.
  - Smoothly transitions between gas and electric power.
Electric Motor Specifications
- Torque:
  - Provides 195 lb.-ft. of torque, providing quick and strong pull for acceleration.
- Power Output:
  - The electric motor generates 44.2 kW (60 horsepower) between 1,600 and 2,100 rpm, helping the gas engine provide better performance.
Battery Specifications
- Battery Type:
  - Uses a lithium-ion battery with a 270-volt system.
- Battery Capacity:
  - The battery has a 1.49 kWh capacity, helping store and supply electric power for the hybrid system.
Handling and Stability
- Cornering:
  - Stays stable and composed when maneuvering around corners.
  - The taller, boxy shape causes a bit more body lean compared to lower cars.
- Braking:
  - Provides a smooth stop in normal driving conditions.
  - Emergency brake performance is comparable to other similar SUVs.
Fuel Economy
- EPA Estimates:
  - Rated for a combined 34 MPG with all-wheel drive.
- Real-World Efficiency:
  - With lots of highway driving, it achieves fuel economy in the high 20s MPG.
- Fuel Type:
  - The turbocharged hybrid engine runs on regular gasoline, not premium.
Driving Comfort
- Everyday Driving:
  - Easy to drive on commutes or long road trips.

Technology

Infotainment and Connectivity
- Touchscreen:
  - The 12.3-inch touchscreen has an easy-to-use layout.
  - Large icons and clear text make it user-friendly.
- Navigation:
  - The built-in navigation system has sharp graphics for clear map display.
  - Voice recognition can easily understand and locate even complex street names.
- Smartphone Integration:
  - Comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for easy phone connectivity.
  - Wireless charging is available.
- Audio System:
  - The Bose audio system delivers good sound quality, with decent bass and sharp treble.
Driver Assistance and Safety Features
- Highway Driving Assist:
  - Allows hands-free driving for about a mile before you have to take the wheel.
  - Not a fully self-driving system but provides useful lane-centering assistance.
  - Can be easily turned off with a button on the steering wheel.
- Adaptive Cruise Control:
  - The GPS-linked system maintains a safe distance from the car ahead.
  - Automatically slows down for curves.
Additional Features
- Digital Key:
  - Use your phone to unlock doors, start the engine, and adjust climate settings.
- USB Ports:
  - Has two USB ports in the front and two in the rear for charging devices.
- Instrument Display:
  - Comes with a 4.2-inch color LCD cluster that provides important driving information.
- Convenience
- Wireless Charging:
  - Available for easy device charging without messy cables.

Appearance

2025 Interior

Seating and Space:
- Designed as a two-row SUV but is available with a third row for extra passengers.
- Front and second-row seats offer ample headroom and legroom.
- Third-row seating is better for kids or short trips.
- Front seats have supportive bolstering for comfort during cornering, and the second-row seats are adjustable.
Comfort and Ride Quality:
- The suspension absorbs bumps well, providing a smooth ride.
- The cabin is quiet, with minimal road and wind noise.
- Heated front seats and dual automatic temperature control ensure comfort.
Storage and Cargo:
- You’ll have 14.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which expands to 40.5 cubic feet with the third row folded down, and nearly 80 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded.
- Power fold-down second-row seat backs make lowering the seats easy.
- Lots of small-item storage, including multiple bins, trays, and a clever center console with a removable tray and sliding storage area.
- Built-in roof grab handles make it easier to access items stored on the roof.
Child Seat Accessibility:
- LATCH points are easy to access for installing child seats.
- Upper tethers can be reached through the center of the headrests.
Additional Interior Features:
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel.
- H-tex seating surfaces.
- 8-way power-adjustable seating.
- Third-row seating with 50/50 folding seats.
- Second-row seats with 60/40 folding, sliding, and reclining features.

2025 Exterior

Wheels and Lighting:
- Outfitted with 18-inch alloy wheels.
- LED headlights, LED taillights, and LED daytime running lights provide improved visibility.
Convenience:
- Hands-free liftgate has auto-open functionality for easy trunk access.
- Roof side rails provide additional cargo-carrying options.
Styling and Badging:
- Features “H” logo and “SANTA FE” badging.
- Silver Anodized badging on SEL & Limited trims, and Black Anodized on Calligraphy trim.
Exterior Color Options:
- Standard Colors: Ultimate Red, Phantom Black, Rockwood Green, Shimmering Silver, Atlantis Blue, Serenity White, Terracotta Orange, Hampton Gray.
- Matte Options: Earthy Brass Matte, Ecotronic Gray Matte.

Safety

Safety Ratings
- 2024 Top Safety Pick (IIHS)
- 2022 Top Safety Pick+ (IIHS)
Collision Avoidance Features
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA):
  - Detects potential collisions with cars, pedestrians, or cyclists using cameras and radar.
  - Provides visual and audio alerts and can emergency brake if needed.
  - Customize warning timing and volume.
  - Assists with turning at intersections (junction turning).
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA):
  - Uses cameras and radar to monitor blind spots.
  - Sends visual and audio alerts when a vehicle or obstacle is detected in the blind spot.
  - Can apply brakes to help avoid a collision if needed.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA):
  - Let’s the driver know that vehicles are approaching when reversing.
  - Can assist with braking to avoid collisions.
Assistance Features
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA):
  - Monitors lane markers and provides steering corrections to keep the vehicle in its lane.
  - Active between speeds of 40 MPH and 110 MPH.
- Lane Following Assist (LFA):
  - Helps the vehicle keep its position in the center of the lane.
- Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go:
  - Adjusts your speed to maintain a set distance from the car in front.
  - Can bring the car to a complete stop and resume driving in heavy traffic.
- Driver Attention Warning (DAW):
  - Monitors the driver’s alertness and notifies you if signs of drowsiness are detected.
  - Alerts the driver when the vehicle ahead starts moving.
Parking and Convenience
- Rear View Monitor (RVM) with Parking Guidance:
  - Uses a backup camera to provide visual assistance when parking or reversing.
- Safe Exit Assist:
  - Warns passengers of approaching traffic before doors are opened.
- Advanced Rear Occupant Alert (Advanced ROA):
  - Alerts the driver if a rear passenger or item is left in the back seat when exiting the vehicle.
Additional Safety Features
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System:
  - Continuously monitors tire pressure and alerts if pressure is low.
- Power Window Lock-Out Button:
  - Prevents accidental power window operation.
- Rear Child Safety Locks:
  - Improves rear passenger safety by preventing the doors from being opened from the inside.
- Child Seat Anchors (LATCH):
  - Equipped with lower anchors and upper tether anchors for securing child seats safely.

Hyundai Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Hybrid/EV Battery Warranty
- Covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
- 5 years or 60,000 miles
Powertrain Limited Warranty
- 10 years or 100,000 miles
Anti-Perforation
- 7 years/unlimited miles
24/7 Roadside Assistance
- 5 years/unlimited miles
Complimentary Maintenance
- 3 years or 36,000 miles

View America’s Best Auto Warranty

Which Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid Do You Choose?

Get the perfect blend of power and efficiency with the Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid at Wolfchase Hyundai!

Our knowledgeable team is ready to show you all the advanced features of this eco-friendly SUV, from its impressive electric range to its state-of-the-art safety technologies. As your trusted Memphis Hyundai dealer, we’ll even help you understand the available tax incentives and, of course, find the perfect financing solution to fit your budget.

Visit our showroom today or call us to schedule a test drive of the Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid!

FAQs

Is the Hyundai Santa Fe gas-fueled or hybrid better?

Either Santa Fe model is a great family SUV. The question of which is better depends on your needs and wants. The gas-powered model gets 20 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway, while FWD hybrid models get 36 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway.

What are the Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid competitors?

Comparable midsize hybrid SUVs include the Kia Sorento PHEV, Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, Toyota RAV4 Prime, and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.

Is the Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid being discontinued?

Yes, Hyundai announced that the Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid will be discontinued after the 2024 model year. The new generation Santa Fe will continue to offer a traditional hybrid powertrain option, but the plug-in hybrid variant is being phased out in North America.

Why is the Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid so popular?

The Santa Fe PHEV is a popular midsize SUV thanks to its combination of practicality, fuel efficiency, comfortable interior, and advanced safety features. All of this paired with the affordable starting price make it a favorite for families!

Is the Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid a reliable SUV?

The Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid has a solid reputation for reliability thanks to the thoroughly tested hybrid powertrain, strong safety ratings, and Hyundai’s comprehensive warranty coverage. Their industry-leading warranty package includes a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a lifetime hybrid battery warranty, demonstrating the company’s confidence in its hybrid technology.

Which Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid model is bigger?

Each Santa Fe Plug-In hybrid model is the same size:

188.4 inches long
74.8 inches wide
66.3 inches tall
36.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row
72.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded

Is Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid SEL or Limited better?

Which model is better depends on your needs. Both trims share the same plug-in hybrid powertrain and performance capabilities, but the Limited trim offers more luxury and technology features. The SEL provides excellent value with many standard essential features. The best choice for you depends on your budget and whether you value the additional luxury and technology features of the Limited trim.

What are the drive modes?

There are three drive modes on the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid:

Eco – for maximum fuel efficiency.
Comfort – balances fuel efficiency and performance for everyday driving.
Sport – ideal for dynamic driving situations.

Is the Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid good in snow?

Yes, when equipped with AWD, the Santa Fe PHEV is great for driving in snowy conditions thanks to several key features:

Drive Mode Select with Snow Mode
Hill Descent Control
Electronic Stability Control
Traction Control System
Heated side mirrors
Available heated steering wheel
Available heated seats (front and rear)

AWD comes standard on all Santa Fe PHEV models, making it ideal for winter driving.

Does the Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid have a 3rd row?

No, the Santa Fe PHEV is a two-row SUV with seating for up to five.

Does the Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid have a garage door opener?

A HomeLink garage door opener is a standard feature on the Limited trim level. It is available on other trims for an additional fee.

Does the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid have a spare tire?

No, the 2024 Santa Fe PHEV does not come with a spare tire.

Disclaimer by Wolfchase Hyundai:

Wolfchase Hyundai believes the information and specifications on this website to be correct at the time of publishing.

Model specifications provided may vary based on selected trim, options, and installed accessories. Specifications, standard features, options, fabrics, accessories, colors, and other features related to the vehicles are subject to change without notice. Values are based on MSRP and exclude taxes, fees, and adjustments. Please visit certified dealers for more accurate pricing.

Images of vehicles are for illustrative purposes only. Please see the dealer for details and availability.

Comparing the 2025 Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid SEL vs Santa Fe Limited vs Santa Fe Calligraphy: Which Version of this Hybrid SUV is Better?

Recognition

New Features

Advantages & Disadvantages of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid

Best Trim Level

Performance

Technology

Appearance

Safety

Hyundai Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Which Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid Do You Choose?

FAQs

Dealership Info

Wolfchase Hyundai

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