2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Max Review

Now in Malaysia's D-segment SUV market, there are many choices, but for family users, the combination of "large space + fuel efficiency + high configuration" is actually not easy to balance. The newly launched 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Max happens to meet this demand. As a 7-seater hybrid model, it not only makes the third row of seats practical but also offers an uncommon long warranty policy in the D-Segment. The key point is that its price is controlled at RM 205,888, which is nearly RM 20,000 lower than competitors with conventional fuel engines in the same class. This time we got a test drive car, and the core task is to verify whether its hybrid system performs reliably in reality, as well as whether the 7-seat layout is sufficient for daily use.

The first impression of the new car is that its design is much tougher than the previous generation. The front fascia features a large, polygonal grille with an internal black mesh design, paired with slim LED headlights on both sides, making the front end highly recognizable. The body side has straight lines, and the waistline extending from the A-pillar to the D-pillar is prominent. Coupled with 19-inch multi-spoke wheels, it looks more robust than its peers in the same class. The rear design is relatively simplistic, with a through-type LED tail light, which is a popular element nowadays, and the lighting effects are impressive. A silver skid plate is also added under the rear bumper, slightly enhancing the SUV's ruggedness. The lighting system uses all LED sources, with automatic headlights and daytime running lights as standard, ensuring both practicality and aesthetics.

Sitting inside, the overall interior design leans towards a steady style, with a symmetrical layout in the center console area. The upper section is wrapped in soft-touch materials, which feel high-quality to touch. At the top of the dashboard is a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument panel, providing clear displays and allowing for multiple driving information interfaces. In the center is an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment screen, which operates fairly smoothly and supports basic multimedia and smartphone connectivity functions. The steering wheel is multifunctional, with volume and phone controls on the left side and the cruise control on the right, along with paddle shifters for convenient gear adjustments in manual mode. Regarding seats, both front seats support electric adjustments, with soft cushioning on the backrest and seat cushion, ensuring comfort during long drives. The second-row seats can slide forward and backward and can be folded down in a 40:20:40 split, while the third row folds down in a 50:50 split. When folded, the trunk space can expand to 634 liters, which is more than enough for daily use, such as fitting a few suitcases. Additionally, there are air conditioning vents for both the front and rear rows, with the rear offering an independent air conditioning control zone, showing thoughtful attention to detail.

In terms of dynamic performance, this 1.6T turbocharged engine combined with an electric motor produces a total system output of 230PS and a combined torque of 350N·m, placing it in the mid-to-upper level among hybrid models in the same class. During daily driving, the vehicle defaults to being driven primarily by the electric motor, offering a very smooth start. When pressing the accelerator pedal, the engine engages smoothly, with almost no noticeable jerkiness. In sport mode, the power response becomes more aggressive; when heavily pressing the accelerator for acceleration, the pushing sensation is sustained through the mid-to-high-speed range, providing plenty of confidence for overtaking. The transmission is a 6AT with a clear shifting logic and fairly quick gear changes in both upshifts and downshifts. Regarding the chassis, it uses a front MacPherson and rear multi-link independent suspension combination that is tuned for comfort. When going over speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension filters out most of the minor bumps, and the body does not exhibit obvious shaking. While cornering, the steering weight feels moderate, the steering is precise, and the body roll is well controlled, providing a confident driving experience.

This time, we primarily tested fuel efficiency. Driving 100 kilometers on congested urban roads and 100 kilometers on highways, the overall fuel consumption averaged about 6.2 liters per 100 kilometers. For a seven-seat D-segment SUV, this result is already quite impressive. The braking system also performed stably, with ventilated disc brakes at the front and rear. The brake pedal feels linear, and during emergency braking, the vehicle's body posture remained stable without veering off course. Regarding noise control, while driving on city roads, engine noise is almost inaudible inside the cabin. On highways, tire noise and wind noise become slightly more obvious, but they are within an acceptable range. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with full-speed range Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which is very convenient to use on highways. It can automatically follow the vehicle ahead and maintain a safe distance, reducing fatigue during long-distance driving.

Overall, the core advantages of the 2024 Santa Fe Hybrid Max are quite apparent: the hybrid system delivers excellent real-world fuel efficiency, the seven-seat layout is flexible with space, and the vehicle is well-equipped, with standard safety features such as lane change assist, lane departure warning, and active braking. Additionally, the five-year or 300,000-kilometer long warranty makes it stand out in terms of value for money among vehicles in the same class. Compared to the Toyota Highlander Hybrid in the same segment, it is more affordable and better equipped. Compared to the Volkswagen Tiguan L, it offers a more noticeable space advantage.

To summarize, this new car is very suitable for families focusing on practicality and fuel economy, especially those needing to frequently take full-capacity trips. The seven-seat layout meets the needs of multi-member households, and the hybrid system reduces daily operating costs. For users prioritizing features and value for money, it is also a good choice. Overall, the Santa Fe Hybrid Max has found a great balance in the D-segment SUV market, combining power and fuel efficiency while ensuring space and features. It is a family SUV worth considering.