In a crowded field of mid-size SUVs, Hyundai has given us something to talk about with the all-new 2024 Santa Fe Calligraphy Hybrid AWD. At first glance, it's impossible to ignore the resemblance to the Land Rover family of SUVs. From its bold, upright stance to the clean, rectangular design elements, Hyundai clearly aimed for something more than just functional family transportation—this SUV is out to make a statement.
Comfort and Convenience for Today's Families
Hyundai knows its audience well. The Santa Fe Calligraphy has an impressive array of comfort and convenience features tailored for today's busy families. The longer wheelbase and standard third-row seating mean there's ample space for everyone. Thoughtful touches like the dual-opening center console, the rear cargo drawer, and the lower shelf for front-seat storage add to the practicality that families crave.
The handle for climbing assists in accessing roof storage. It is a clever addition to weekend camping trips or holiday road adventures. However, Hyundai may have gone a bit overboard with the UV-C sterilization compartment. While innovative, it feels like a feature that most families could do without—more of a novelty than a necessity.
Luxury Features That Rival Premium Brands
Hyundai continues to blur the lines between mainstream and luxury with the Calligraphy trim. From the premium quilted leather seats to the panoramic curved display that houses both the digital gauge cluster and infotainment screen, this Santa Fe offers enough luxury features to stand toe-to-toe with many high-end SUVs on the market.
Despite Hyundai's efforts to distinguish itself from its luxury sibling, Genesis, it's hard not to draw comparisons. After all, drivers choosing Genesis over Hyundai must be looking for something beyond just creature comforts because, frankly, the Santa Fe Calligraphy has nearly everything one could want in a premium SUV at a more accessible price point.
Performance and Powertrain
I'll admit, I was initially hesitant about the 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder hybrid engine, given the early reports of powertrain issues. However, our tester delivered adequate performance for daily driving, highway merging, and even light towing. The hybrid system's 231 combined horsepower felt sufficient for most tasks a family might encounter, and the all-wheel drive gave us added confidence on slick roads.
That said, if you're looking for heart-racing power, you may want to temper your expectations. The Santa Fe is more about balanced efficiency and comfort than raw performance, but that's perfectly fine for the family-oriented buyer.
Design and Color Palette
Our tester came in the eye-catching Earthy Brass Matte exterior color paired with a black interior. While I was a fan of the bold color choice during the test, I'm not convinced it's a shade I would appreciate in the long term. The matte finish looks great when clean, but it might be a chore to maintain over time. Still, Hyundai deserves credit for offering a unique color palette that stands out in a sea of gray and silver SUVs.
The exterior design perfectly balances rugged adventure and urban sophistication with its H-shaped lighting elements and wide terrace-style liftgate. The liftgate itself is a standout feature, offering a nearly six-inch wider opening compared to previous models. This makes loading bulky items easier, and even enjoy outdoor lounging when parked.
Technology That Enhances the Drive
Hyundai didn't skimp on tech in the Calligraphy trim. The dual wireless charging pads, Bose® 12-speaker sound system, and Hyundai Digital Key 2 all enhance the user experience. Additionally, the panoramic curved display looks upscale and improves driver visibility by keeping vital information within easy view.
One feature that caught my attention was the Over-The-Air (OTA) updates, which allow Hyundai to wirelessly update key vehicle systems without a visit to the dealership. This small but important detail shows Hyundai's commitment to keeping the Santa Fe up to date with the latest tech advancements.
Final Thoughts: Is This the Only SUV You'll Ever Need?
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy Hybrid AWD is undoubtedly a compelling option for families seeking a versatile, comfortable, and feature-rich SUV. It offers enough luxury features to rival premium competitors while remaining practical for everyday use. While I'm still not sold on the long-term appeal of the matte color finish, the overall design and thoughtful interior touches make it hard to find fault with this SUV.
If you're in the market for a three-row hybrid SUV with upscale flair and family-friendly practicality, the Santa Fe Calligraphy deserves a spot on your shortlist. With a starting price of $51,405, including options like the $1,000 matte paint upcharge, it delivers a lot of value for what you get.
Would I choose it over a luxury-branded SUV? That depends on what you're after. If it's pure badge prestige, Genesis will win. But if you're looking for a well-rounded SUV that checks all the boxes without breaking the bank, the Santa Fe Calligraphy might just be the only SUV you'll ever need.
