Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Hyundai Santa Fe 2021 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). This SUV has been making waves, and we’re here to give you the lowdown on everything you need to know. From performance and fuel efficiency to interior comfort and tech features, we’ll cover it all. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Overview of the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV marks a significant step forward in Hyundai's electrification strategy, blending the practicality of a mid-size SUV with the efficiency of a plug-in hybrid powertrain. This model isn't just a new trim; it's a reimagining of what a family vehicle can offer in terms of environmental responsibility and cost savings. The Santa Fe PHEV combines a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 261 horsepower. This setup provides ample power for daily driving while also offering the flexibility to drive on electric power alone for shorter commutes, reducing your carbon footprint and saving money on gas. One of the standout features of the 2021 Santa Fe PHEV is its all-wheel-drive system, which comes standard. This ensures confident handling and traction in various weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for families living in areas with snow or rain. The exterior design maintains the bold and modern look of the Santa Fe lineup, with a distinctive grille, sleek LED lighting, and aerodynamic lines that enhance its overall appeal. Inside, the cabin is spacious and comfortable, with premium materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Santa Fe PHEV is equipped with a range of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike. Furthermore, the Santa Fe PHEV offers a competitive electric-only range, allowing drivers to complete many daily trips without using any gasoline. This not only reduces emissions but also lowers the overall running costs of the vehicle. The plug-in hybrid system can be easily charged at home using a standard 120V outlet or a Level 2 charger for faster charging times. The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is a well-rounded and compelling option for those looking to embrace electric mobility without sacrificing the practicality and versatility of a traditional SUV. It represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and efficient future for family transportation.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV doesn't disappoint. The combination of the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and the electric motor delivers a responsive and smooth driving experience. The electric motor provides instant torque, which means you get quick acceleration off the line, making it easy to merge onto highways or navigate city traffic. The transition between electric and gasoline power is seamless, and the system intelligently manages the power distribution to optimize efficiency and performance. One of the key advantages of the PHEV setup is the ability to drive in electric-only mode for a certain range, typically around 30 miles. This is perfect for daily commutes or running errands around town, allowing you to significantly reduce your fuel consumption and emissions. When the battery is depleted, the gasoline engine kicks in, and the Santa Fe PHEV operates as a regular hybrid, providing continued efficiency. The all-wheel-drive system enhances the handling capabilities of the Santa Fe PHEV, providing added grip and stability in various driving conditions. Whether you're driving on dry pavement or navigating through snow or rain, the AWD system ensures confident and controlled handling. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections effectively. While the Santa Fe PHEV is not designed to be a sports car, it offers a composed and stable driving experience that is well-suited for everyday use. The steering is responsive and provides decent feedback, allowing you to feel connected to the road. Overall, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV strikes a good balance between performance, efficiency, and handling. It offers a smooth and comfortable ride with the added benefit of electric driving capabilities, making it a versatile and practical choice for families and individuals alike. The regenerative braking system also contributes to the overall efficiency by capturing energy during deceleration and using it to recharge the battery. This not only extends the electric range but also helps to reduce brake wear.

Fuel Efficiency and Range

Let's talk about fuel efficiency and range, which are crucial factors for anyone considering a plug-in hybrid. The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV excels in this area, offering impressive numbers that can significantly reduce your trips to the gas station. The EPA estimates the Santa Fe PHEV to have an electric-only range of about 30 miles. This means you can drive solely on electric power for your daily commute or errands, provided you keep the distance within that range. Once the electric range is depleted, the vehicle operates as a regular hybrid, with the gasoline engine and electric motor working together to maximize fuel efficiency. In hybrid mode, the Santa Fe PHEV achieves a combined fuel economy rating of around 33 MPG. This is a significant improvement over the standard gasoline-powered Santa Fe, making it a cost-effective choice for long-distance driving. The ability to plug in and recharge the battery adds another layer of efficiency. You can charge the Santa Fe PHEV at home using a standard 120V outlet, although this will take longer. A Level 2 charger, which can be installed in your garage, will significantly reduce the charging time. With a Level 2 charger, you can fully recharge the battery in just a few hours. The actual fuel efficiency and range you achieve will depend on your driving habits, the weather conditions, and the terrain. However, even under less-than-ideal conditions, the Santa Fe PHEV is likely to deliver impressive fuel savings compared to a traditional gasoline-powered SUV. The fuel efficiency benefits of the Santa Fe PHEV extend beyond just the MPG numbers. By driving on electric power for a significant portion of your trips, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment. This makes the Santa Fe PHEV an appealing choice for environmentally conscious drivers. Furthermore, the availability of various driving modes allows you to optimize the vehicle's performance for different situations. For example, you can select the "EV" mode to prioritize electric driving or the "Hybrid" mode to balance electric and gasoline power. The "Sport" mode provides a more engaging driving experience with increased power and responsiveness.

Interior Comfort and Technology

The interior comfort and technology in the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV are designed to enhance the driving experience for both the driver and passengers. Stepping inside, you'll find a spacious and well-appointed cabin with high-quality materials and a modern design. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long journeys a breeze. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, ensuring that even taller passengers can ride comfortably. The Santa Fe PHEV comes standard with a range of technology features, including a user-friendly infotainment system with a large touchscreen display. The infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and communication. The available wireless charging pad eliminates the need for cables, keeping your devices charged and ready to go. The digital instrument cluster provides clear and customizable information about the vehicle's performance, including battery range, fuel economy, and driving mode. The head-up display projects important information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road. The Santa Fe PHEV also offers a range of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features work together to help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe. The surround-view monitor provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The blind-spot monitoring system alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, reducing the risk of lane-change accidents. The rear cross-traffic alert system warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. Overall, the interior of the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is a comfortable and technologically advanced space that enhances the driving experience. From the supportive seats to the user-friendly infotainment system and the comprehensive suite of safety features, the Santa Fe PHEV is designed to provide a safe and enjoyable ride for everyone.

Pricing and Value

When considering the pricing and value of the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV, it's essential to look at the overall package it offers. The Santa Fe PHEV typically comes in at a higher price point than the standard gasoline-powered Santa Fe, but the added cost is justified by the significant improvements in fuel efficiency and the potential for long-term savings. The exact price will vary depending on the trim level and any optional features you choose. However, the Santa Fe PHEV is competitively priced compared to other plug-in hybrid SUVs in its class. One of the key factors that contributes to the value of the Santa Fe PHEV is its eligibility for federal and state tax credits. These incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost of the vehicle, making it more affordable in the long run. In addition to the tax credits, the Santa Fe PHEV also offers potential savings on fuel costs. By driving on electric power for a significant portion of your trips, you can reduce your reliance on gasoline and save money at the pump. The Santa Fe PHEV also comes with Hyundai's excellent warranty coverage, which provides peace of mind and protects you from unexpected repair costs. The warranty includes a 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle warranty, a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a lifetime battery warranty. When you consider the fuel efficiency, the available tax credits, and the comprehensive warranty coverage, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV offers excellent value for money. It's a well-rounded and practical SUV that combines the benefits of electric driving with the versatility and comfort of a traditional family vehicle. The long-term cost savings and the reduced environmental impact make it an appealing choice for environmentally conscious buyers. Overall, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV provides a compelling value proposition in the plug-in hybrid SUV market. It offers a combination of performance, efficiency, comfort, and technology that is hard to beat.

Final Verdict

Alright, guys, let's wrap things up with the final verdict on the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV. After taking a comprehensive look at its performance, fuel efficiency, interior, technology, and value, it's clear that this SUV is a strong contender in the plug-in hybrid market. The Santa Fe PHEV offers a compelling combination of electric driving capabilities and traditional SUV practicality. The electric-only range of around 30 miles is perfect for daily commutes and errands, allowing you to significantly reduce your fuel consumption and emissions. The hybrid mode provides excellent fuel economy for longer trips, making it a versatile choice for any driving situation. The interior is comfortable and well-equipped with a range of technology features that enhance the driving experience. The safety features are comprehensive, providing peace of mind for you and your passengers. The pricing is competitive, and the available tax credits and long-term savings make it an attractive value proposition. Of course, no vehicle is perfect, and the Santa Fe PHEV does have a few minor drawbacks. The charging time with a standard 120V outlet can be slow, and the cargo space is slightly reduced compared to the standard gasoline-powered Santa Fe. However, these are relatively minor issues that are easily outweighed by the benefits of the plug-in hybrid powertrain. Overall, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV is a well-rounded and impressive SUV that offers a compelling blend of efficiency, performance, comfort, and technology. It's an excellent choice for families and individuals who are looking to embrace electric mobility without sacrificing the practicality and versatility of a traditional SUV. If you're in the market for a plug-in hybrid SUV, the Santa Fe PHEV is definitely worth considering. It represents a significant step forward in Hyundai's electrification strategy and sets a new standard for the segment. So, there you have it – our comprehensive review of the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV. We hope you found this information helpful and informative. Happy driving!