2025 Hyundai Santa Fe: ICE vs. Hybrid Powertrain Comparison
The Hyundai Santa Fe has arrived with a bold new design and impressive capabilities. At the heart of this midsize SUV lies a choice between two distinct powertrains: a traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and an advanced hybrid system.
The Powertrain Lineup
ICE Option: 2.5L Turbocharged Engine
The Santa Fe offers a robust 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine for those who prefer traditional gasoline power. This powerplant delivers an impressive 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, providing ample thrust for city driving and highway cruising. The engine is paired with an advanced 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, designed to offer quick shifts and improved fuel efficiency compared to conventional automatic transmissions.
Hybrid Option: 1.6L Turbocharged Hybrid Powertrain
For the eco-conscious driver, Hyundai presents a hybrid powertrain consisting of a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor. This system generates a combined output of 231 horsepower, balancing performance and efficiency. The hybrid variant utilizes a 6-speed automatic transmission for smooth operation with the electric motor.
Performance Comparison
Acceleration and Power Delivery
The ICE-powered Santa Fe, with its higher horsepower rating, offers quicker acceleration and more immediate power delivery. This power suits drivers who frequently need to merge onto highways or pass slower vehicles. The turbocharger helps minimize lag, providing a responsive driving experience across the rev range.
In contrast, while offering less peak horsepower, the hybrid powertrain benefits from the electric motor's instant torque. This torque results in smooth and linear acceleration from a standstill, which can be particularly advantageous in urban driving scenarios. The seamless integration of electric and gasoline power sources creates a refined driving experience that many drivers find appealing.
Towing Capacity
The ICE variant holds a clear advantage for those needing to haul trailers or boats. When properly equipped, the 2.5L turbocharged engine allows a maximum towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg. This capacity makes the ICE-powered Santa Fe a versatile choice for outdoor enthusiasts and families with towing needs.
The hybrid powertrain typically offers lower towing capacities due to the nature of its powertrain design. However, it’s worth noting that many hybrid SUVs still offer respectable towing capabilities.
Driving Dynamics
Both powertrain options in the Santa Fe are paired with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) systems, enhancing traction and stability across various driving conditions. The ICE model’s higher power output may provide a slight edge in dynamic driving, especially when paired with the quick-shifting dual-clutch transmission.
The hybrid variant, while potentially offering less outright performance, compensates with its smooth power delivery and the unique driving characteristics of a hybrid powertrain. The integration of regenerative braking not only aids in energy recovery but can also provide a different driving feel that some drivers prefer, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Fuel Efficiency
ICE Fuel Economy
The 2.5L turbocharged engine in the Santa Fe delivers a balance of power and efficiency. According to Natural Resources Canada, the ICE-powered Santa Fe XRT AWD model achieves fuel consumption ratings of 12.2 L/100 km in the city, 9.1 L/100 km on the highway, and 10.8 L/100 km combined. These figures represent a respectable efficiency for a powerful midsize SUV, especially considering its AWD system.
Hybrid Fuel Economy
The hybrid powertrain shines in terms of fuel efficiency, significantly outperforming its ICE counterpart. Natural Resources Canada rates the Santa Fe Preferred Hybrid AWD at an impressive 6.8 L/100 km in the city, 6.9 L/100 km on the highway, and 6.9 L/100 km combined. These numbers represent a substantial improvement over the ICE variant, particularly in urban driving, where the hybrid system can make the most of its electric motor and regenerative braking capabilities.
Long-Term Fuel Savings
While the hybrid model may come with a higher initial price tag, the significant fuel savings over time can offset this cost for many drivers. The nearly 50% reduction in fuel consumption compared to the ICE model can lead to substantial savings at the pump, especially for those who drive frequently or have long commutes.
It’s worth noting that both powertrains run on regular unleaded fuel, which helps keep operating costs down regardless of the chosen variant.
Environmental Impact
Emissions
The hybrid powertrain offers clear advantages in terms of reducing environmental impact. With its lower fuel consumption, the hybrid Santa Fe produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions per kilometer driven than its ICE counterpart. This makes it an attractive option for environmentally conscious consumers looking to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing the utility of a midsize SUV.
While less efficient, the ICE model still incorporates modern emissions control technologies to meet current environmental standards. However, hybrids clearly take the lead in this category for those prioritizing minimal environmental impact.
Driving Experience and Features
Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH)
Both powertrain options in the Santa Fe provide a refined driving experience. The ICE model benefits from Hyundai advancements in noise isolation and vibration dampening, ensuring a quiet ride even under acceleration.
The hybrid variant often edges out in terms of NVH, particularly at low speeds and in stop-and-go traffic, where it can operate solely on electric power. This results in near-silent operation in certain conditions, creating a serene driving environment.
Unique Hybrid Features
The hybrid Santa Fe comes with several unique features that enhance its driving experience:
Regenerative Braking: The hybrid model has paddle shifters that allow the driver to adjust the level of regenerative braking. This feature not only aids in energy recovery but also allows for a degree of one-pedal driving in certain conditions, which many drivers find engaging and efficient.
EV Mode: Many hybrid systems include an EV mode, allowing limited all-electric driving at low speeds, perfect for quiet operation in residential areas or parking lots.
Power Flow Display: Hybrid models typically feature a display that shows the real-time power flow between the engine, electric motor, and battery, helping drivers optimize their driving for maximum efficiency.
Shared Advanced Features
Regardless of the powertrain choice, the Santa Fe comes equipped with a host of advanced features that enhance both comfort and functionality:
Dual 12.3-inch Displays: Both variants feature a modern interior with dual 12.3-inch displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, providing clear information and easy access to vehicle functions.
UV-C Sterilization Compartment: A unique feature in the segment is that this compartment uses UV-C light to sterilize personal items, adding an extra layer of hygiene for health-conscious drivers.
Advanced Safety Suite: All Santa Fe models come equipped with a comprehensive set of safety features, including front collision mitigation with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist systems.
Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership
ICE Maintenance
Traditional gasoline engines like the 2.5L turbo in the Santa Fe have well-established maintenance routines. Most mechanics and car owners are familiar with regular oil changes, spark plug replacements, and other routine services. However, the complexity of modern turbocharged engines may require more specialized care and potentially higher maintenance costs compared to naturally aspirated engines of the past.
Hybrid Maintenance
Hybrid powertrains often require less frequent maintenance for certain components. For example, the regenerative braking system can reduce wear on the brake pads, potentially extending their lifespan. However, the presence of high-voltage components and the dual nature of the powertrain may necessitate service from technicians with specific hybrid system training.
It’s worth noting that hybrid batteries are designed to last the vehicle's lifetime for many owners, and Hyundai typically offers extended warranties on hybrid components for added peace of mind.
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe: Choose the Right Powertrain
The decision between the ICE and hybrid powertrains in the Hyundai Santa Fe ultimately comes down to individual needs and preferences:
Choose the ICE if: You prioritize maximum power and towing capacity, frequently drive long distances at highway speeds, or prefer the familiar characteristics of a traditional gasoline engine.
Choose the Hybrid if: Fuel efficiency and environmental impact are top priorities, you do a lot of city driving, or you enjoy the unique driving characteristics and technology associated with hybrid powertrains.
Both options offer compelling packages, combining the Santa Fe striking new design with capable powertrains. The ICE variant provides robust power and traditional driving dynamics, while the hybrid offers exceptional efficiency without sacrificing the utility expected from a midsize SUV.
