2023 HYUNDAI SANTA FE PHEV SEL CONVENIENCE

EV Channels Review

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL Convenience Plug-in Hybrid is reviewed as a competent and good-looking mid-size SUV, particularly praised for its upscale front-end design and comfortable interior. The reviewer highlights the vehicle's smooth driving dynamics, good visibility, and the advantage of a traditional six-speed automatic transmission over a CVT in a plug-in hybrid. However, significant drawbacks are noted: the cloth interior on a $44,000 vehicle is questioned, the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and the continued use of USB-A ports instead of USB-C are seen as outdated. While the 31 miles of EV-only range and 430 miles total range are considered good, they are not class-leading, with the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV offering more EV range. The reviewer ultimately questions the value proposition of the plug-in hybrid over a regular hybrid, suggesting the latter might offer 90-95% of the benefits for several thousand dollars less.