by Kelly Fisher
The new Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is one of those cars that immediately makes you pause, not because it’s loud or overdone, but because it looks nothing like the versions that came before it. Hyundai has taken a bold step with this design, leaning into a squared-off, boxy, almost futuristic shape. The H-shaped lighting, the clean edges, and the upright stance all come together in a way that’s striking without trying too hard. It feels intentional. I like it.
Climb inside and that same confidence continues. The cabin feels genuinely premium and not in a “trying to be luxury” sense, but in a solid, grown-up way that makes you feel like you’ve spent your money well. The materials look good, the layout is clean and modern, and the dual-screen setup stretches across the dashboard without dominating the space. What stands out most is the roominess. The Santa Fe has a genuinely spacious cabin, especially in the second row, and the third row is more usable than many SUVs in this segment. Even with the seven-seat layout, the boot space remains practical, and Hyundai has clearly thought through the small everyday details that make family life easier.
Under the bonnet, the Santa Fe uses a 1.6-litre turbocharged hybrid powertrain paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. It produces strong, easy power that makes the car feel willing without ever becoming shouty or strained. What impressed me most is how smoothly the hybrid system blends between electric and petrol power. It makes the drive feel calm and refined, and the fuel consumption is excellent for a vehicle of this size, especially in city driving, where the electric motor does a lot of the work.
On the road, the Santa Fe strikes a balance between comfort and control. It feels composed, predictable, and comfortable enough for long trips and the realities of school runs. The steering is light but accurate, the suspension absorbs most imperfections well, and the overall driving experience feels steady and reassuring.
Overall, what I enjoyed most about the Santa Fe Hybrid is how complete it feels. The futuristic design draws you in, the interior keeps you comfortable, the hybrid system impresses with its efficiency, and the overall experience genuinely feels premium. It’s a family SUV that doesn’t fade into the background.
At R1,249,900, the Santa Fe Hybrid isn’t exactly light on the wallet. And when you remember that something like the Chery Tiggo 9 PHEV comes in at R839,900, it makes the Santa Fe a harder sell on value alone. Which is a pity, because I genuinely enjoyed my time with it. It’s stylish, spacious, efficient, and feels properly premium, but that price tag definitely forces a double-take.