The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe arrived with a striking new trim level that caught attention: the XRT. This version builds upon the already well-regarded Santa Fe SEL Convenience package, injecting a dose of rugged aesthetics without altering the underlying performance. After spending time behind the wheel, here’s a detailed look at what the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Xrt offers and whether it’s the right SUV for you.
Striking Exterior Design of the Santa Fe XRT
Hyundai’s design team truly amplified the sporty and rugged appeal of the Santa Fe with the XRT trim. The test model, finished in a captivating Storm Sea hue, looked fantastic. The XRT distinguishes itself through a series of exclusive exterior enhancements. These include a bold black finish grille, substantial 18-inch dark-toned wheels, and black lower fascia trim both at the front and rear. Dark silver skid plate styling elements further contribute to the tougher appearance, along with lower door side finishers, sleek black side mirror covers, and practical side steps. For added utility and adventurous styling, roof rails come standard on top.
Beyond the XRT-specific elements, the trim also features modern LED headlights, daytime running lights for enhanced visibility, convenient puddle lamps, and heated outdoor side mirrors for all-weather usability. A rear spoiler adds a sporty finishing touch to the overall design.
Powertrain and Performance of the 2022 Santa Fe XRT
Under the hood, the 2022 Santa Fe XRT is powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine paired with a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain configuration delivers 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. While adequate for daily driving, the engine’s performance felt somewhat less engaging compared to the powertrain experienced in the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD. The Santa Fe XRT AWD’s heavier weight, being 309 pounds more than the Tucson AWD, likely contributes to a perceived need for more power, particularly during initial acceleration from a standstill.
The idle start/stop system in this model also felt more noticeable than in other Hyundai vehicles. At times, the system’s operation was so subtle that it momentarily felt as if the car had completely turned off, which could be slightly disconcerting for drivers unfamiliar with such systems.
Interior Comfort and Design of the Santa Fe XRT
Inside, the Santa Fe XRT offers a spacious and well-thought-out cabin that prioritizes user-friendliness. The XRT trim features comfortable cloth front seats that are nicely cushioned and include supportive side bolsters. The driver benefits from an 8-way power-adjustable seat with 2-way power lumbar support, and both front seats are heated for added comfort in colder climates.
The interior design incorporates metallic painted door handles and patterned trim accents throughout, along with textured door speakers. A leather-wrapped steering wheel adds a touch of refinement to the touchpoints. The center console flows seamlessly into the center stack, which houses dual-zone climate controls. The lower console area features a shift-by-wire transmission, eliminating a traditional gear shift knob, and includes a media controller, buttons for the electric parking brake, auto stop/start, auto brake hold, and seat warmer controls. Ample storage is available within the console bin and in a dedicated storage area located beneath the console itself.
The second row provides generous space and cloth seating, along with a convenient drop-down console, dedicated A/C vents, and sunshades for passenger comfort. The 60/40 split-folding second-row seats recline, enhancing passenger comfort, and feature a power release function for added convenience.
In terms of utility, the XRT offers practical features such as two 12-volt power outlets and a cargo area equipped with a 2nd-row power seat release. A hidden storage compartment under the cargo floor provides additional space for stowing items out of sight.
Technology and Connectivity in the Santa Fe XRT
The 2022 Santa Fe XRT boasts a modern and informative 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Similar to the Palisade, it’s integrated into the dashboard, offering a different aesthetic compared to the standalone design seen in the Tucson. The cluster presents a wealth of vehicle information in a visually appealing and animated format.
An 8-inch multimedia touchscreen display, framed in glossy black, serves as the central hub for infotainment. Hyundai’s system is user-friendly, featuring crisp graphics and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. However, it’s worth noting that voice recognition and navigation functionalities are only accessible when connected through these smartphone integration services. The screen also doubles as a display for the rearview monitor with parking guidance. While the XRT omits Hyundai’s Sounds of Nature ambient sound feature, it does include Rear Seat Quiet Mode for passenger tranquility. The Santa Fe XRT is equipped with a total of four USB ports throughout the cabin.
Ride Quality and Driving Experience of the 2022 Santa Fe XRT
While the initial acceleration from a stop could benefit from more responsiveness, the Santa Fe XRT delivers adequate power for highway driving and merging. The overall ride quality is comfortable and composed, making it suitable for daily commutes and longer journeys. The cabin remains quiet at cruising speeds, with engine noise becoming more noticeable primarily during initial acceleration.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Hyundai’s SmartSense Safety Feature suite is standard on the 2022 Santa Fe, providing a comprehensive array of safety technologies. These include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, and Driver Attention Warning. The XRT trim also offers available Ultrasonic Rear Occupant Alert for added safety but does not include parking distance warning sensors. Smart cruise control with stop and go functionality operates effectively. Remote engine start is included on the key fob for convenience, but Remote Smart Parking Assist and Highway Driving Assist are not available on the XRT trim.
Final Verdict on the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT
The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT stands out as a handsome and spacious SUV, offering a comfortable interior, generous cargo capacity, and up-to-date technology features. True to Hyundai’s reputation, it comes with a competitive price point, enhancing its overall value proposition. While a boost in horsepower and the option to include features like Remote Smart Parking Assist or Highway Driving Assist would be welcome additions, the Santa Fe XRT delivers a compelling package for families and individuals seeking a stylish and capable SUV.
The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT, a stylish and rugged SUV offering a blend of comfort, technology, and value.
Pros:
- Distinctive XRT rugged styling
- Attractive exterior color options
- Comfortable driver’s seat
- User-friendly technology
Cons:
- Could use more horsepower for initial acceleration
- No option for Remote Smart Parking Assist or Highway Driving Assist on XRT trim
2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT Specifications:
- MSRP: Starting at $34,000; As tested: $35,380 (including destination)
- Fuel Economy: 22 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined
- Exterior Color: Stormy Sea
- Odometer Reading (as tested): 2,898 miles
- Weight: 3,960 lbs (AWD)
- Spare Tire: Temporary compact spare
- Dimensions (L/W/H): 188.4 in / 74.8 in / 63.7 in (with side roof rails)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.7 gallons
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs (with trailer brakes)
- Trim Tested: 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT 2.5L
- Warranty: 5-year/60,000-mile New Vehicle Warranty; 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Warranty; 7-year/unlimited-mile Anti-perforation Warranty; 3-year Complimentary Maintenance
- Assembly Location: Montgomery, Alabama
- Manufacturer Website: Hyundai USA
