Hyundai makes some of the best SUVs in the business – dependable family vehicles with smooth rides, lots of convenience features, and strong value propositions thanks to reasonable prices and long warranties. But they are not known for off-road prowess.
If you want a midsize SUV that’s comfortable for a family road trip and that you can take well off the paved surface, you buy a Jeep Grand Cherokee or Ford Explorer. If you want an SUV you can use for a little light off-roading, you buy a Subaru Outback or the new Ford Bronco Sport. You’re not likely to buy a Hyundai.
Hyundai knows, however, that some customers like the rugged look of an SUV tuned for outdoor enthusiasts. Hence, the 2022 Santa Fe XRT. Even in marketing materials sent to journalists, Hyundai doesn’t position the XRT as a hardwearing dirt-road hauler. Rather, it says the XRT “adds a rugged look for customers desiring exterior differentiation.”
Pricing Starts at $32,300
The Santa Fe XRT comes with all of the equipment of the Convenience Package and starts at $32,300 in front-wheel-drive form and $34,000 with Hyundai’s HTRAC AWD system. Each also carries a $1,185 destination fee. It’s available for order today.
Exterior differentiation comes thanks to XRT-exclusive wheels and a blackout trim package that darkens the grille, mirror covers, and roof rails. Plastic molding at the bottom of the doors helps protect from dings and scratches. New side steps are an exclusive touch.
The XRT model doesn’t make Santa Fe a rival for the best off-road SUVs. It includes no mechanical upgrades whatsoever. But it does add a desirable set of features for a reasonable price and looks a bit tougher than the average Santa Fe. Since Hyundai’s midsize SUV is an appealing proposition to begin with, the XRT should bring it to the attention of more shoppers.
