What Are the Different Hyundai Santa Fe Models?

Hyundai Santa Fe SE: A Solid Starting Point

The Hyundai Santa Fe SE is the base trim, and it covers the basics without cutting corners on the things that matter most. It runs on a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and gets an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 29 on the highway with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available if you want it.

Inside, you get YES Essentials stain-resistant cloth seating, which is honestly a smart feature for anyone with kids or a busy lifestyle. The 12.3-inch touchscreen, Bluelink+ connectivity, and hands-free smart liftgate make daily use convenient without overcomplicating things. Seven-passenger seating and Drive Mode Select round out the package. The Santa Fe SE is straightforward and dependable, which is exactly what a lot of drivers are looking for.

Hyundai Santa Fe SEL: A Step Up in Comfort

The Hyundai Santa Fe SEL takes everything the SE model offers and adds some features that make a real difference day to day. The engine stays the same 2.5L turbo, but output increases to 277 horsepower. You also get H-Tex seating surfaces, heated front seats, and wireless device charging, which are the kinds of upgrades that are easy to take for granted until you do not have them.

The standout addition on the Santa Fe SEL is Hyundai Digital Key 2 Premium, which lets you use a compatible smartphone or smartwatch to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle. For drivers in Marietta, GA, who want a more comfortable and connected daily driver without a big jump in price, the Santa Fe SEL hits a nice sweet spot. Towing capacity and passenger seating stay the same as the SE model, so you are not trading capability for comfort.

Hyundai Santa Fe XRT: Built for Drivers Who Want More Capability

The Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is the odd one out in the lineup in the best possible way. While most of the Santa Fe trims are focused on comfort and technology, the XRT model leans into capability and rugged style. It comes standard with HTRAC All-Wheel Drive, all-terrain tires, and increased ground clearance, so it is more prepared for uneven terrain than the other trims right out of the box.

Towing capacity jumps to 4,500 pounds when equipped with trailer brakes, which makes it a practical choice if you regularly haul a trailer, boat, or outdoor equipment. Dark alloy wheels and gloss black exterior accents give it an appearance that matches its attitude. Inside, you get black H-Tex trimmed seating, dual wireless device charging, and Terrain Mode. If you spend time off paved roads or just want an SUV that looks and feels a little more capable, the Santa Fe XRT is worth a close look.

Hyundai Santa Fe Limited: More Technology, More Comfort

The Limited model is where the Santa Fe starts to feel genuinely premium. It keeps the 277-horsepower turbocharged engine and the same towing capacity as the SE and SEL, but the interior takes a clear step forward.

Leather-trimmed seating replaces H-Tex, and you also get ventilated front seats and heated rear seats, which makes a big difference for passengers on longer drives. A dual-pane sunroof opens up the cabin nicely, and the Bose premium audio system is a noteworthy upgrade over the standard setup. On the technology side, the Limited adds a 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster, Blind-Spot View Monitor, and Remote Smart Parking Assist. For drivers in Woodstock, GA, who want a more refined and connected experience without going all the way to the top trim, the Limited delivers.

Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy: The Top of the Lineup

The Calligraphy is the most premium Santa Fe model you can buy, and it shows from the moment you sit down. Nappa leather-trimmed seating comes standard, and the driver's seat includes a relaxation function that makes long drives noticeably more comfortable. Six-passenger seating with an improved second-row layout gives rear passengers more space and a better overall experience.

Technology gets a boost here, too. A 12-inch head-up display keeps key information visible without taking your eyes off the road, and a full display rearview mirror replaces the traditional mirror for a cleaner, wider rear view. The Bose audio system, heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, and dual-pane sunroof carry over from the Limited as well.

The Santa Fe Calligraphy is designed for someone who wants the full package. If the details matter to you and you spend a lot of time in your vehicle, this trim makes that time feel a lot better.