Let's dive into the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT review! Guys, if you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that blends rugged styling with everyday practicality, the Santa Fe XRT might just be the ticket. But before you rush off to the dealership, let's break down what makes this model tick, what it excels at, and where it might leave you wanting more. We'll cover everything from its distinctive exterior and comfortable interior to its performance, technology, and overall value. By the end of this review, you'll have a clear picture of whether the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is the right choice for your needs and lifestyle. So, buckle up and get ready for an in-depth look at this adventurous SUV!

Exterior Design: Ruggedly Handsome

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT immediately grabs your attention with its distinctive and rugged exterior design. Unlike its more conservatively styled siblings, the XRT trim boasts a bolder, more adventurous look that sets it apart from the crowd. The most noticeable changes are the dark-finished exterior elements, including the exclusive XRT-specific front and rear fascias. These give the SUV a tougher, off-road-ready appearance. The blacked-out grille, roof rails, and side mirror caps further enhance the aggressive aesthetic. These aren't just cosmetic tweaks; they contribute to a sense of capability and adventure that's hard to ignore. The XRT also rides on unique 18-inch dark alloy wheels, which perfectly complement the overall design and provide a more planted stance. While it's not a full-blown off-roader, the XRT's design cues definitely hint at a willingness to tackle more than just paved roads. The body cladding around the wheel arches and lower sills adds an extra layer of protection and visual appeal. Overall, the exterior design of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is a major selling point for those who want an SUV that looks as good on the trail as it does in the school parking lot. It's a well-executed blend of style and ruggedness that makes a strong statement.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT, you'll find a comfortable and well-equipped cabin designed with both the driver and passengers in mind. While the XRT trim doesn't offer significant upgrades in terms of materials compared to other Santa Fe models, it still provides a pleasant and functional environment. The seats are supportive and comfortable, making long drives a breeze. The interior layout is intuitive, with controls that are easy to reach and understand. One of the standout features of the Santa Fe XRT is its impressive array of technology. An 8-inch touchscreen display (or an optional 10.25-inch screen on higher trims) serves as the central hub for infotainment. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing seamless integration with your smartphone. The infotainment system is responsive and user-friendly, making it easy to navigate through menus and access your favorite apps. The XRT also comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. These technologies provide an added layer of safety and peace of mind on the road. Higher trims offer even more tech goodies, such as a surround-view monitor, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The interior of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT strikes a good balance between comfort, convenience, and technology, making it a great place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure. It's a space that's both functional and enjoyable.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT offers a balanced driving experience that's well-suited for everyday use. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces around 191 horsepower. While it's not the most powerful engine in its class, it provides adequate acceleration for most driving situations. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly and efficiently. For those seeking more power, an optional turbocharged 2.5-liter engine is available, delivering a more robust 281 horsepower. This engine provides quicker acceleration and more confident passing power. The Santa Fe XRT handles well on both city streets and highways. The steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections with ease. While the XRT's rugged styling might suggest off-road prowess, it's important to remember that it's not a dedicated off-roader. However, it does offer all-wheel drive, which provides added traction in slippery conditions. The all-wheel-drive system can also enhance stability and control on dry pavement. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT are well-rounded and suitable for a wide range of driving needs. It's not a sports car, but it provides a comfortable and confident driving experience that's perfect for daily commutes and family road trips. Whether you're navigating city streets or exploring winding country roads, the Santa Fe XRT delivers a smooth and enjoyable ride.

Fuel Efficiency: How Thirsty Is It?

Let's talk about fuel efficiency in the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT. For many buyers, especially with fluctuating gas prices, fuel economy is a crucial factor. The Santa Fe XRT, with its standard 2.5-liter engine, offers reasonable gas mileage for its class. You can expect to get around 25 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving. The front-wheel-drive models tend to be slightly more fuel-efficient than the all-wheel-drive versions. If you opt for the more powerful turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, fuel economy will take a slight hit. However, the added performance might be worth the trade-off for some drivers. To maximize fuel efficiency, it's important to drive conservatively and avoid aggressive acceleration. Using cruise control on the highway can also help save gas. The Santa Fe XRT also features an Eco mode, which optimizes engine performance and transmission settings to improve fuel economy. While the Santa Fe XRT's fuel economy isn't class-leading, it's still respectable for a mid-size SUV. It's comparable to many of its competitors and offers a good balance between performance and efficiency. Keep in mind that actual fuel economy can vary depending on driving conditions, habits, and the specific configuration of your vehicle. But overall, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT provides decent fuel efficiency that won't break the bank.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth the Money?

Now, let's get down to brass tacks: pricing and value. The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is positioned as a mid-range trim level, offering a balance of features and affordability. Its price typically falls between the lower and upper trims of the Santa Fe lineup. When evaluating its value, it's important to consider what you get for your money. The XRT trim includes a number of desirable features, such as its rugged exterior styling, advanced safety technologies, and comfortable interior. It also offers a good amount of cargo space, making it practical for families and those who need to haul gear. Compared to its competitors, the Santa Fe XRT offers competitive pricing and a strong value proposition. It often undercuts rivals in terms of price while offering similar or better features. Hyundai also provides a generous warranty, which adds to the overall value. However, it's important to compare the XRT to other Santa Fe trims as well. Depending on your priorities, you might find that a different trim level offers a better fit for your needs and budget. For example, if you don't care about the rugged styling of the XRT, you might be able to save money by opting for a lower trim. Conversely, if you want more luxury features, you might want to consider a higher trim level. Overall, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT offers good value for money. It provides a compelling combination of style, features, and affordability, making it a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. But it's essential to do your research and compare it to other options to ensure it's the right choice for you.

Pros and Cons of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT

To make your decision easier, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT:

Pros:

• Distinctive, rugged styling: The XRT stands out from the crowd with its bold exterior design.
• Comfortable and well-equipped interior: The cabin is designed for comfort and convenience, with plenty of technology features.
• Advanced safety features: The Santa Fe XRT comes standard with a suite of safety technologies.
• Good value for money: It offers a compelling combination of features and affordability.
• Available all-wheel drive: Provides added traction and stability in various driving conditions.

Cons:

• Standard engine could use more power: The base engine is adequate but not particularly exciting.
• Not a dedicated off-roader: Despite its rugged appearance, the XRT is not designed for serious off-road adventures.
• Fuel economy is average: While not terrible, the fuel economy isn't class-leading.
• Interior materials are not top-of-the-line: The XRT trim doesn't offer significant upgrades in interior materials compared to other Santa Fe models.

Final Verdict: Is the Santa Fe XRT Right for You?

So, after this 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT review, is the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT the right SUV for you? It really depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a mid-size SUV that combines rugged styling with everyday practicality, the XRT is definitely worth considering. It offers a distinctive look, a comfortable interior, and a good amount of technology. However, if you prioritize performance or off-road capability, you might want to explore other options. The Santa Fe XRT is best suited for drivers who want a stylish and capable SUV for daily commutes, family trips, and light adventures. It's a well-rounded vehicle that offers a lot of value for the money. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Santa Fe XRT is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it feels behind the wheel. Compare it to other SUVs in its class and consider your own priorities and preferences. With careful research, you can make an informed decision and choose the SUV that's perfect for your lifestyle. Good luck, guys!