A name like Santa Fe is designed to invoke a special kind of sentiment.

Imagine combing through the air of the American Southwest desert, its scenic tough green hills and a city steep in history.

Chances are you, much like I, have never been to New Mexico. And yet the name alone allows us a sense of connection to its allure. 

Or at least that's Hyundai's intention since day one - which is a strategic decision from a marketing perspective.

What quicker way to get the message across on what one of your most important product is all about? 

Am sure Hyundai didn't take the name lightly either as their first ever sports utility vehicle (SUV).

Now 24 years on the tradition continues as Hyundai intends to keep the model in line with its namesake in addition to some advancement.

Hybrid Faith 

Locally assembled (CKD), Malaysia's fourth generation 7-seater Santa Fe comes in two powertrain options. 

There's the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) 2.2L turbo-diesel engine option that is paired to an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and the two-wheel drive (2WD) 1.6L Gamma-II turbo-GDi hybrid engine with an electric motor which this review will be focusing on.

The latter, more eco-conscious choice, is paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission to produce a combined system output power of 230ps @ 5,500 rpm and 350Nm of torque at 1,000 – 4,500 rpm.

Its Smartstream hybrid engine incorporates the world’s first Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology and has a rated fuel economy of up to 1,000km/67 litres.

The model features a shift-by-wire gear system in place of the conventional shift knob which is unique to the segment.

Both variants come with Hyundai's Terrain Mode selector with access to the following drive modes: sand, snow, and mud, along with eco, sport, comfort, and smart. 

Its improved fuel efficiency is bolstered by its new lightweight chassis platform that aims to offer more interior space for passengers and cargo, in addition to enhanced safety - based on a multi-load path structure with hot-stamped, super hightensile steel that improves collision safety by optimising energy absorption during impacts.

Safety is further prioritised with the Level 2 Hyundai SmartSense Driver Assistance System which features Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Blind Spot View and Surround View Monitor, and Rear Occupant Alert.

Aesthetically the model's sporty look is highlighted by its T-shape LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) flanking its wide, Hyundai signature geometric-patterned grille that is complemented by a clamped lower air intake.

At the rear is a slim, illuminated taillight bar connected across the rear hatch, Smart Power Tailgate, a wide rear reflector and skid plate. Depending on your choice of either the Hybrid Max or Hybrid Plus variant you're looking at either 19-inch or 17-inch wheels, respectfully.

Interior is all about premium comfort featuring soft-touch materials throughout the cabin, Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control, and an armchair-like elevated centre console for the front passengers.

It has a 10.25-inch audio, video, navigation (AVN) touchscreen display with pre-loaded maps, and satellite-based voice-guided navigation, among other features.

Priced from either RM185,888 (Hybrid Plus) or RM205,888 (Hybrid Max), the Santa Fe comes in Jet Black, Snowflake White Pearl, Meteor Grey, and Stormy Sea colours.

Pricing includes a comprehensive 5-year or 300,000 km warranty and an 8-year unlimited mileage hybrid battery warranty - Hyundai will swap defective cells free of charge if the battery’s State of Health (SOH) drops below 70% within the 8-year period.

Comfort Carrier

Turning back the clock, the first Santa Fe was all about that urban ruggedness.

Perhaps as its name implies it was to embody the nature spirit of the New Mexico area and a lifestyle-sense what customers can expect from the model.

Today the model still embodies that characteristic. Even the hybrid variants which are just as capable even without the diesel's AWD system.

But as sporty looking as it is you're not so much looking at the Santa Fe for an off-road experience. Like the area it was named after as with its design the model boasts more modern comforts than it previously did.

In fact, the Santa Fe is easily one of the most comfortable SUV to drive in the D-segment range. It gets its smooth drive performance from its suspension that focuses on a refined and soundless soft-ride for comfort. 

Combine the drive to an interior with fantastic Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) proofing along with a comfort-centric cabin. 

From its touch-feel, seats and leg-room space driving the Santa Fe gives off a close-to-luxury drive experience by way of gliding across most rough and uneven roads.

Hyundai's decision to match the model with a hybrid heart also makes for a unique experience. The setup gives the driver a really solid and smooth-start acceleration as characteristics of a turbocharged hybrid vehicle.

It is a trait that makes the model a lot quieter especially for the passengers in contrast to the standard qualities of a diesel engine.

And as per-hybrid vehicles the Santa Fe hybrid delivers amazing range efficiency - easily 770km-800km on a single tank. Effectively you're getting the best diesel-like performance without its shortcomings.

 
Verdict

If you're looking for a comfort-centric D-segment machine then the Santa Fe ticks all the boxes.

And again, it takes the crown as one of the most comfortable D-segment SUV in the present market.

Its suspension setup allows it to drive well on all road conditions (that doesn't necessitate hardcore off-roading) while the hybrid engine ensures fuel efficiency that is what you need most to go the distance.

Which makes it perfect for daily urban roads or for a safer "balik kampung" if you prefer. Naturally heavy traffic is also a non-issue with ADAS' smart cruise control feature.

But really, with a name this exotic and as the name implies in Spanish, the Santa Fe works well in whichever way you place your faith in. 

There's no real complaint to be made even if you want to consider it as a semi-off road camper or simply a sporty modern-day SUV. Regardless the model is very capable.

Its greatest asset is of course all that space for passengers and cargo. Combine with the 4th gen Santa Fe's performance and you're looking at the ultimate peace of mind when it comes to comfort drive experience.