Hey there, car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). I've put this SUV through its paces, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on everything from its performance and fuel efficiency to its interior comfort and tech features. This isn't just a spec sheet regurgitation, folks; this is a real-world review, based on actual driving experiences. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What's the Buzz About the 2022 Santa Fe PHEV?

First off, why should you care about the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV? Well, in a nutshell, it's Hyundai's attempt to give you the best of both worlds: the efficiency of an electric vehicle (EV) for your daily commutes and the flexibility of a gasoline engine for those longer road trips. The Santa Fe PHEV joins the growing ranks of plug-in hybrid SUVs, offering a compelling blend of eco-friendliness and practicality. This plug-in hybrid SUV is a great alternative to the gas-only Santa Fe, providing improved fuel economy and the option to drive on electric power for a limited range. The Santa Fe PHEV is available in two trim levels: SEL and Limited. Each trim comes standard with all-wheel drive, a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and a six-speed automatic transmission. The electric motor is powered by a 13.8 kWh battery pack. The combined output of the engine and electric motor is 260 horsepower. This makes the Santa Fe PHEV a peppy and fun-to-drive SUV. The Santa Fe PHEV offers a smooth and comfortable ride. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and potholes, and the cabin is well-insulated from road noise. The Santa Fe PHEV is also a practical SUV, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The Santa Fe PHEV has a combined fuel economy rating of 33 mpg. This is significantly better than the gas-only Santa Fe, which gets 26 mpg combined. The Santa Fe PHEV can also travel up to 30 miles on electric power alone. This makes it a great choice for people who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on fuel. The Santa Fe PHEV is a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality. It's a great choice for people who are looking for an eco-friendly SUV that can handle both daily commutes and longer road trips. This SUV is a serious contender in the plug-in hybrid market and is definitely worth considering if you're in the market for a practical and eco-conscious vehicle.

Now, the big question: Does it live up to the hype? Let's find out!

Performance and Driving Experience: How Does It Handle?

Alright, let's talk about what matters most: how the 2022 Santa Fe PHEV actually drives. The powertrain is a combination of a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, producing a combined 260 horsepower. It's paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. That might not sound like a powerhouse on paper, but trust me, it's got plenty of pep for everyday driving. Acceleration is brisk, especially in the initial burst from a standstill, thanks to the instant torque of the electric motor. Overtaking on the highway is effortless, and the transmission shifts smoothly and unobtrusively. One of the standout features of the Santa Fe PHEV is its smooth and refined ride quality. The suspension does a commendable job of soaking up bumps and imperfections in the road, making for a comfortable experience, even on less-than-perfect surfaces. The steering is light and responsive, making the SUV easy to maneuver in city traffic and parking lots. While it's not a sports car, the Santa Fe PHEV handles corners with confidence, exhibiting minimal body roll. The all-wheel-drive system provides added grip and stability, particularly in inclement weather conditions. Driving on electric power is a serene experience. The motor is whisper-quiet, and the transition between electric and gasoline power is seamless, making it hard to tell when the engine kicks in. The electric-only range is around 30 miles, which is sufficient for most daily commutes. The Santa Fe PHEV provides a responsive and engaging driving experience. Its combination of a powerful engine and a smooth transmission makes it a pleasure to drive on both city streets and open highways. The all-wheel drive system and refined suspension further enhance the overall driving experience, making it a comfortable and capable SUV for various driving conditions. Overall, the driving experience is a significant plus. The car is responsive, comfortable, and easy to live with. It makes you feel like you are driving a luxury car.

Fuel Efficiency and Range: Does It Save You Money?

Okay, let's get down to brass tacks: fuel efficiency and range. After all, that's a major reason to consider a plug-in hybrid. The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV boasts an EPA-estimated 33 mpg combined when running on gasoline. However, the real star here is its electric-only range, which is around 30 miles on a full charge. This means that if your daily commute is less than 30 miles, you could potentially do the entire trip on electric power, eliminating the need to use any gasoline at all. This is a huge win for those looking to save money on fuel and reduce their carbon footprint. The efficiency numbers are impressive. In my testing, I found that the Santa Fe PHEV consistently delivered on its promised fuel economy figures. When running on electric power, the SUV consumes zero gallons of fuel, of course. When the gasoline engine kicks in, the fuel economy remains competitive with other SUVs in its class. Charging the Santa Fe PHEV is straightforward. It takes about 4 hours using a Level 2 charger. Using a standard 120V outlet will take longer. The battery is 13.8 kWh. The Santa Fe PHEV also has regenerative braking, which helps to recapture energy and increase the electric driving range. The regenerative braking system is a notable feature, converting kinetic energy into electricity, thereby increasing the electric driving range. This feature is particularly useful in stop-and-go city traffic, where the vehicle frequently decelerates. When the battery is depleted, the Santa Fe PHEV operates as a conventional hybrid vehicle, switching between electric and gasoline power as needed. The transition between the two power sources is remarkably seamless. Overall, the Santa Fe PHEV delivers excellent fuel efficiency. It provides an impressive electric-only range, allowing drivers to minimize their gasoline consumption. This makes it an attractive option for eco-conscious drivers and those looking to save money on fuel costs. The combination of electric and gasoline power offers a practical and efficient solution for various driving needs. You can go for longer trips knowing that you have the gas engine as a backup.

Interior Comfort and Tech Features: What's It Like Inside?

Alright, let's step inside and see what the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV has to offer in terms of comfort and technology. The interior is well-designed, spacious, and features high-quality materials. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and the driver's seat offers plenty of adjustments to find the perfect driving position. Rear-seat passengers will appreciate the ample legroom and headroom, making it a comfortable place to be on longer journeys. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a large touchscreen display that's easy to navigate. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, so you can easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps and features. The Santa Fe PHEV also comes equipped with a range of advanced driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These features add an extra layer of safety and convenience to the driving experience. The interior also has a premium feel. The materials used throughout the cabin are of high quality, and the design is both modern and stylish. The infotainment system is user-friendly and intuitive, and the digital instrument cluster provides a wealth of information at a glance. The Santa Fe PHEV provides a comfortable and convenient experience for both the driver and passengers. The spacious interior, high-quality materials, and advanced tech features make it a great choice for families and anyone looking for a well-appointed SUV. The design is modern, with soft-touch materials throughout the cabin, offering a premium feel. The infotainment system is easy to use, and there are plenty of USB ports and other connectivity options available.

Charging and Battery Life: How Practical Is It?

Let's talk about the practical aspects of owning a plug-in hybrid: charging and battery life. The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV comes with a Level 1 charging cable, which allows you to plug it into a standard 120-volt outlet. However, charging with this method is slow; it can take up to 10 hours to fully charge the battery. For faster charging, you'll want to install a Level 2 charger at home. With a Level 2 charger, the Santa Fe PHEV can be fully charged in about 4 hours. This is a much more practical option for daily use. The battery pack has a capacity of 13.8 kWh. The electric range is around 30 miles, which is sufficient for many people's daily commutes. It's important to consider your typical driving habits and charging availability when determining whether a plug-in hybrid is right for you. If you have easy access to home charging, you'll be able to take full advantage of the electric-only range and save money on fuel. The battery life is generally very good. Hyundai offers a warranty on the battery, which provides peace of mind. The battery is designed to last for many years and thousands of charge cycles. The regenerative braking system also helps to extend the battery's life by capturing energy during deceleration and braking. Charging is also straightforward, with the charging port conveniently located on the driver's side. The Santa Fe PHEV offers a practical charging experience and provides a good balance between electric range and overall usability. The convenience of home charging, coupled with the long battery life, makes it a viable option for those looking to reduce their reliance on gasoline. The Santa Fe PHEV provides a hassle-free charging experience and offers a long-lasting battery. The convenience of home charging, along with the extensive battery life, makes it a sensible choice for those who want to reduce their gasoline consumption. Consider your own needs and conditions to decide whether this is right for you.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Good and the Bad

Pros:

• Excellent fuel efficiency: The Santa Fe PHEV offers impressive fuel economy, especially when running on electric power.
• Generous electric range: The 30-mile electric range is sufficient for many daily commutes.
• Smooth and comfortable ride: The suspension does a great job of absorbing bumps and providing a pleasant driving experience.
• Spacious and well-appointed interior: The cabin is comfortable, and the infotainment system is easy to use.
• Comprehensive safety features: Advanced driver-assistance systems provide added safety and peace of mind.

Cons:

• Charging time: Charging with a Level 1 charger is slow.
• Limited electric-only range: While 30 miles is good, it might not be enough for all users.
• Price: Plug-in hybrids often come with a higher price tag than their gasoline counterparts.

Should You Buy the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV?

So, after all that, should you buy the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV? If you're looking for an SUV that offers a blend of efficiency, practicality, and comfort, then the answer is a resounding yes! It's a fantastic option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint, save money on fuel, and enjoy a smooth and refined driving experience. However, consider your charging needs and driving habits before making a decision. If you can easily charge at home or work, the Santa Fe PHEV is a no-brainer. If you often take long trips or don't have convenient access to charging, then a traditional hybrid or gasoline-powered SUV might be a better fit. Overall, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is an excellent plug-in hybrid SUV that offers a compelling combination of efficiency, practicality, and driving pleasure. I hope this review has been helpful! Happy driving!