While there are plenty of great things to say about the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, something seems to be missing. While the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is capable and efficient, it lacks a little sportiness and doesn’t offer luxury comfort. 

Is the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid worth buying? 

Yes, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is a great SUV option to consider, especially if you’re looking for efficiency. It gets an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and up to 31 mpg on the highway. 

But it lacks some of the thrills of the gas-powered models. According to Cars.com, the Santa Fe Calligraphy with the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 277 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque is more fun. 

The Hybrid is equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that provide 226 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. It has an adequate acceleration, though, that’s fine for merging into traffic and passing people on the highway. 

Also, on a positive note, you can get started in the Santa Fe Hybrid for about $33,650, and all-wheel drive comes standard. It typically costs between $800 to $1,500 to add AWD. 

The Santa Fe could be more luxurious

The team at Cars.com found themselves wishing that the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid was a little more luxurious. The interior was lacking compared to what they experienced with the top-of-the-line Calligraphy trim. 

Instead of providing a faux-suede headliner and Nappa leather upholstery, the Hybrid features hard plastics. It’s durable and easy to clean but could use a little sprucing up. 

Also, it’s easy to pick on the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid for lacking space. Rivals such as the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Kia Sorento Hybrid offer third-row seats. But the Santa Fe is more spacious than the Toyota Venza. 

You can access up to 36.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with up to 72.1 cubic feet total. There’s plenty of legroom and headspace in each row. Plus, there is tons of storage space for personal items. 

Does the Santa Fe have food features? 

Yes, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe doesn’t cut any corners when it comes to tech. An 8.0-inch infotainment display comes standard, but you can upgrade to the 10.3-inch unit. The graphics are attractive. 

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, which is a convenient perk. You can opt for the wireless phone charger too. Also, there are plenty of USB and power ports, so everyone can charge their devices. 

The optional 12.3- digital gauge display and color head-up display are easy to personalize. They can also make the driving experience a bit more engaging, and the 12-speaker audio system is pretty immersive. 

Standard safety features include forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. 

So, while the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe may lack luxury comforts and pep, it’s still a great option to consider. It’s more efficient, has a smooth ride, and includes plenty of value.