2022 HYUNDAI SANTA FE | 5NMS3DAJ1NH461911

Body Styles

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a two-row midsize crossover SUV with a bold, sculpted exterior and upright proportions. The 2019 redesign introduced a more angular, sophisticated look with a wide cascading grille, split-level headlights, and strong character lines across the flanks. It rides on a 2766 mm wheelbase and features short overhangs, prominent wheel arches, and a sleek roofline that tapers subtly toward the rear. The rear styling includes a wide tailgate with connected LED taillights (on facelifted models), integrated exhaust finishers, and roof spoiler, all contributing to a modern, confident stance. Its size strikes a balance between compact maneuverability and midsize presence.

Model Name Meaning (Manufacturer)

Named after Santa Fe, New Mexico, the vehicle draws inspiration from the American Southwest, suggesting freedom, adventure, and wide-open landscapes. Hyundai uses the name to evoke a spirit of exploration and a relaxed, upscale atmosphere — aligning with the SUV’s blend of comfort and capability.

Model Name Meaning (Languages)

“Santa Fe” translates from Spanish as “Holy Faith.” Though its automotive use emphasizes the geographical location rather than the literal meaning, the phrase evokes cultural heritage and exoticism in non-Spanish-speaking markets. Its elegant phonetics and place-based recognition enhance the model’s international appeal.

Body & Interior Colors and Rims

The Hyundai Santa Fe is available in a palette of sophisticated and nature-inspired hues, including Stormy Sea, Quartz White, Twilight Black, Calypso Red, Rainforest, Shimmering Silver, Hampton Gray, and Portofino Gray. Calligraphy trims introduce exclusive finishes such as Lagoon Blue and Glacier White Pearl, enhancing the premium visual signature. The exterior design is enhanced by satin aluminum accents, dark chrome trim, and LED lighting signatures that add both clarity and visual width.

Inside, the Santa Fe showcases a modern, upscale cabin with layered surfaces and tactile materials. Available interior colors include Black, Gray, Beige, and Cognac Brown, depending on trim. Calligraphy models add quilted Nappa leather upholstery, suede headliners, ambient lighting, and real aluminum or woodgrain trim. The wide center console features a shift-by-wire gear selector, while the 10.25-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital cluster integrate seamlessly. Comfort features include ventilated seats, heated rear seats, panoramic sunroof, and acoustic-laminated glass — elevating the cabin into near-luxury territory.

Wheels range from 17-inch alloys on base SE models to 19- and 20-inch premium designs on SEL Premium, Limited, and Calligraphy trims. The top trims include multi-spoke or turbine-style polished aluminum wheels, often with dark inserts or machine-finished faces. These contribute to the SUV’s refined yet bold stance, reflecting its position as a style-forward option in the midsize segment.

Top Expensive Options

• Surround View Monitor with Blind-Spot View Camera: $800
• Panoramic Sunroof with Power Shade: $1,200
• Remote Smart Parking Assist: $600
• 12.3-inch Full Digital Instrument Cluster: $750
• Head-Up Display with Navigation Projection: $900
• Quilted Nappa Leather Seats with Ventilation: $1,500
• Harman Kardon Premium Audio (12 Speakers): $1,100
• Smart Park Assist and Auto Reverse Exit: $650
• Heated and Ventilated Rear Seats: $700
• Highway Driving Assist II with Lane Centering: $1,000

vs Competitors

The Santa Fe distinguishes itself in the crowded midsize SUV field by combining near-luxury features with excellent value and striking design. Against competitors like the Honda Passport, Nissan Murano, Ford Edge, and Subaru Outback, the Santa Fe offers a more refined cabin and a broader range of powertrains, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. The turbocharged 2.5T engine delivers stronger performance than most 4-cylinder rivals, while the Calligraphy trim ventures into luxury territory rivaling entry-level offerings from Lexus and Acura. Though not as off-road-focused as the Outback or as sporty as the Edge ST, the Santa Fe delivers a more complete package — balancing performance, practicality, and premium feel in a highly polished way.

Fun Fact

The Santa Fe Calligraphy introduced Hyundai’s first-ever luxury-focused trim designation, showcasing the brand’s ambition to move upmarket. It’s also one of the few midsize two-row SUVs to offer both turbocharged gas and plug-in hybrid options, making it a standout for buyers who value both performance and electrification in a stylish, high-comfort package.