Let's dive into the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT review. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that blends everyday practicality with a touch of rugged appeal, the Santa Fe XRT might just be what you're looking for. Hyundai has carved out a niche for itself by offering vehicles that pack a lot of value, and the XRT trim aims to enhance the Santa Fe's adventurous side. But does it deliver? Let's find out.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT distinguishes itself with several exterior enhancements that give it a more robust appearance. The most noticeable changes include unique black cladding on the lower body panels, dark silver front and rear skid plates, and exclusive side steps. These additions not only make the Santa Fe XRT look tougher but also provide some functional benefits, such as protecting the vehicle's paint from scratches and dings when venturing off the beaten path. The XRT also features exclusive dark alloy wheels, which complement the overall rugged aesthetic. While these changes are primarily cosmetic, they do a good job of setting the XRT apart from other Santa Fe trims. The blacked-out trim and skid plates give it a more aggressive stance, making it appealing to buyers who want an SUV that looks like it's ready for anything. The side steps are a welcome addition, especially for shorter passengers who may find it easier to get in and out of the vehicle. Overall, the exterior enhancements of the XRT are well-executed and contribute to its rugged charm. These design choices reflect a growing trend in the automotive industry, where manufacturers are adding off-road-inspired trims to their existing models to attract a wider range of customers. The Santa Fe XRT successfully taps into this trend, offering a visually appealing package that stands out in the crowded mid-size SUV segment.

Performance and Handling

When we talk about the performance of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT, it's essential to understand what this SUV is designed for. The XRT trim doesn't bring any mechanical upgrades in terms of engine or suspension. It essentially retains the same powertrain options as the standard Santa Fe. Most XRT models come with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing around 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. While this engine is adequate for daily driving, it might feel a bit underpowered when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo, or when tackling steep inclines. For those seeking more oomph, there's an available 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that bumps the power up to 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall responsiveness, making it a worthwhile upgrade for drivers who prioritize performance. The handling of the Santa Fe XRT is generally competent, with a comfortable ride quality that's well-suited for long road trips. However, it's important to remember that the XRT is not a dedicated off-road vehicle. While the aforementioned exterior enhancements give it a more rugged appearance, it lacks the advanced off-road features found in more specialized SUVs. The standard all-wheel-drive system provides some added traction in slippery conditions, but the Santa Fe XRT is best suited for light off-road adventures, such as gravel roads and well-maintained trails. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, so expect some body roll in corners. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT are adequate for most drivers, but those seeking more power or serious off-road capability may want to consider other options.

Interior and Technology

Moving inside, the interior and technology of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT strike a good balance between comfort and convenience. The cabin is well-appointed with quality materials, and the seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a pleasure. The XRT trim includes several standard features that enhance the overall experience, such as an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows seamless integration of your smartphone for navigation, music, and communication. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with intuitive menus and responsive touch controls. Higher trims offer a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen with additional features like integrated navigation and a premium sound system. The Santa Fe XRT also comes standard with a suite of advanced safety technologies, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. These features provide an extra layer of security and can help prevent accidents. Other available tech features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The interior design of the Santa Fe XRT is modern and functional, with plenty of storage space for passengers and cargo. The rear seats offer ample legroom, making it comfortable for adults to sit in the back. The cargo area is also spacious, with enough room for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. Overall, the interior and technology of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT are well-executed and provide a comfortable and convenient driving experience. The standard features are generous, and the available upgrades add even more value.

Fuel Efficiency

When we consider fuel efficiency, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT offers respectable numbers for its class. With the standard 2.5-liter engine, you can expect to get around 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. These figures are competitive with other mid-size SUVs in the market. However, if you opt for the more powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, the fuel economy drops slightly to around 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. While the turbocharged engine provides a noticeable boost in performance, it does come at the cost of reduced fuel efficiency. It's worth noting that the actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and road conditions. Aggressive driving, heavy traffic, and hilly terrain can all negatively impact fuel efficiency. To maximize fuel economy, it's best to drive conservatively, avoid excessive idling, and keep your tires properly inflated. The Santa Fe XRT also offers an Eco mode, which optimizes the engine and transmission settings for improved fuel efficiency. While the Eco mode may slightly reduce performance, it can help you save money on gas in the long run. Overall, the fuel efficiency of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is reasonable for a mid-size SUV. It's not the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its class, but it's also not the worst. The standard engine provides a good balance of performance and fuel economy, while the turbocharged engine offers more power at the expense of slightly lower fuel efficiency. As with any vehicle, it's important to consider your individual driving needs and preferences when evaluating fuel economy.

Pricing and Value

Now, let's discuss pricing and value. The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is positioned as a mid-range trim, offering a balance of features and affordability. The starting price for the XRT is typically a bit higher than the base SE trim but lower than the higher-end Limited and Calligraphy trims. When evaluating the value of the Santa Fe XRT, it's important to consider the features and equipment that come standard. As mentioned earlier, the XRT includes unique exterior enhancements, such as black cladding, skid plates, and dark alloy wheels, which give it a more rugged appearance. It also comes with a decent set of standard features, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced safety technologies. Compared to other mid-size SUVs in the market, the Santa Fe XRT offers competitive pricing and a good value proposition. Hyundai has a reputation for providing a lot of features for the money, and the XRT is no exception. However, it's also important to consider the long-term costs of ownership, such as maintenance, insurance, and depreciation. Hyundai vehicles typically have a good reliability record, which can help keep maintenance costs down. The warranty coverage is also generous, with a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Overall, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT offers a compelling value proposition for buyers looking for a mid-size SUV with a touch of ruggedness. It's competitively priced, well-equipped, and backed by a strong warranty.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the final verdict on the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is that it's a solid choice for those seeking a mid-size SUV with a bit of flair. It successfully blends everyday practicality with a rugged aesthetic, making it appealing to a wide range of buyers. The exterior enhancements give it a distinctive look, while the interior offers a comfortable and well-equipped cabin. The standard features are generous, and the available upgrades add even more value. While the performance may not be thrilling, it's adequate for most daily driving needs. The fuel efficiency is respectable, and the pricing is competitive. However, it's important to consider the limitations of the XRT. It's not a dedicated off-road vehicle, and the lack of mechanical upgrades means it won't outperform other Santa Fe trims in terms of acceleration or handling. The target audience is someone who values the appearance of ruggedness and enjoys light off-road adventures, rather than a serious off-roader. The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is definitely worth considering if you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that stands out from the crowd. It offers a good balance of style, comfort, and value, making it a compelling choice in a competitive segment.