The Hyundai Santa Fe, especially in its Calligraphy trim, elevates the standard SUV experience with an interior that genuinely impresses. Stepping inside, you’re immediately greeted by a cabin that feels a cut above, a space where attention to detail and premium materials clearly take center stage. Let’s delve into what makes the Santa Fe’s interior stand out, drawing insights akin to a detailed Car and Driver review.
The cabin’s fit and finish are immediately noticeable. Suede graces the pillars, sun visors, and headliner, creating a soft, inviting ambiance throughout. This tactile luxury extends to stitched leather adorning the doors, dashboard, and center armrest, showcasing a commitment to craftsmanship. The unique, striped birch-like accent trim on the dash adds a touch of modern elegance, setting it apart from more conventional designs. While subtle “H” and horizontal design cues are present, they are tastefully integrated, avoiding any sense of over-branding. Even the operation of moving parts, such as door release handles and dash vents, speaks to the quality, functioning with a smooth, refined feel. The interior’s upscale nature might almost seem disproportionate to the exterior’s appearance, yet it undeniably justifies the near-$50,000 price tag, answering the question of value with tangible luxury.
Access to the Santa Fe is remarkably easy, a boon for drivers and passengers alike. The floor sits lower than many small and even midsized SUVs, making ingress effortless. Shorter individuals will particularly appreciate the low floor and seat base, facilitating a simple step into the vehicle. The second row, while slightly elevated, still maintains good accessibility. A step up is required, but the flat roof design contributes to a wide, rectangular door opening, minimizing any need to duck excessively.
The driving position in the Santa Fe is best described as chair-like, offering exceptional comfort. Headroom is abundant, and knee space remains generous even for those who prefer a splay-legged posture. The wide and well-positioned left footrest enhances driver comfort on longer journeys. Both armrests are generally well-placed, though the padding on the door armrest is firmer, and the center armrest is also quite stiff. Notably, the driver’s right elbow may rest on the hard plastic left edge of the center armrest, which could be improved. Some drivers might encounter a slight challenge in finding the ideal steering wheel position that balances both comfort and an unobstructed view of the instrument panel, sometimes requiring a slight compromise between the two.
The front seats of the Santa Fe feel distinctly premium, almost as if borrowed from Hyundai’s luxury brand, Genesis. They represent a clear upgrade compared to seats found in competing models within the same class. The leather upholstery exudes quality, with a pleasant feel and a durable impression. The seat base is wide, though the torso bolsters might feel somewhat constricting for larger occupants. Some drivers have noted the seatback to be on the firmer side. The power-extendable under-thigh support is a welcome feature, although its practical use during driving might be limited for most. Four-way lumbar adjustment is available for the driver’s seat, offering customized back support.
However, adjusting the bottom cushion tilt is not independently controlled; altering the bottom cushion height affects the entire seat position. This interconnected movement means that readjusting the seatback might be necessary after modifying the bottom cushion. An interesting feature is a button that reclines the seat into a lounge position with leg support, similar to those found in some electric vehicles like the Kia EV9, ideal for resting when parked.
Second-row seats are arranged in a theater-style configuration, positioned slightly higher than the front row. While this design enhances visibility for rear passengers, it does introduce minor drawbacks in terms of access and headroom. Headroom remains adequate but is slightly reduced compared to the front. Even with the power tilt base and seatback in their lowest positions, the elevated seat bottom can make entry and seating a bit more challenging. Once seated, however, leg and knee room are plentiful. The open space beneath the front seats allows passengers to comfortably tuck their feet away. As is typical for second-row seats designed to fold down, they are flatter and less bolstered than the front seats. Passengers have generally praised the captain’s chairs as being quite comfortable, especially for this vehicle class. The Calligraphy trim further elevates the second-row experience with luxuries like retractable window shades and heated, power tilt/recline functionality. Convenient USB-C charge ports, bag hooks, and large pockets on the front seatbacks, along with dual cup holders on the doors for drinks and extra storage, are all passenger-friendly additions.
In conclusion, the Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy, as assessed through a lens similar to Car and Driver’s detailed evaluations, delivers a truly upscale interior experience. From its luxurious materials and refined finishes to its comfortable and feature-rich seating, the cabin confidently justifies its price point, offering a compelling blend of practicality and premium comfort for both driver and passengers.
