2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT: Reviews, Specs, & More

by Alex Braham 50 views

Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT? You've come to the right place! This review dives deep into everything you need to know about this rugged and stylish SUV. We're talking performance, features, reliability – the whole shebang. Let's get started!

What is the Hyundai Santa Fe XRT?

The Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is a special trim level of the popular Hyundai Santa Fe SUV, designed with a more adventurous and off-road-inspired aesthetic. It bridges the gap between the standard Santa Fe models and those who desire a bolder, more capable look without necessarily needing hardcore off-road performance. The XRT trim typically includes unique exterior enhancements, such as dark exterior accents, exclusive cladding, and distinctive wheels, giving it a more rugged appearance. It’s aimed at buyers who want their SUV to stand out and reflect an active lifestyle. Under the hood, the Santa Fe XRT usually features the same reliable engine options as other Santa Fe trims, providing a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate power for daily driving and weekend getaways. The interior remains comfortable and well-equipped, offering modern technology and safety features that Hyundai is known for. Overall, the Santa Fe XRT is a compelling option for those seeking a stylish and versatile SUV with a touch of ruggedness.

Key Features of the XRT

The XRT trim distinguishes itself primarily through its visual upgrades. Key features include: dark silver front and rear skid plates, dark chrome exterior accents, black roof rails, side steps, and exclusive XRT badging. These elements combine to give the Santa Fe a more aggressive and adventurous stance. While it doesn't typically include mechanical upgrades for off-roading, the XRT's enhanced aesthetics make it appealing to those who want a vehicle that looks ready for anything. Inside, you can expect a well-appointed cabin with comfortable seating, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a suite of advanced safety features. The Santa Fe XRT aims to provide a balance of style, comfort, and practicality, making it a great choice for families and individuals alike.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT generally offers a choice between two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an available 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The base engine provides adequate power for daily commuting and general driving needs, delivering around 191 horsepower. However, for those seeking more spirited performance, the turbocharged engine is the way to go, boosting output to approximately 281 horsepower. This added power makes a noticeable difference in acceleration and overall responsiveness, particularly when merging onto highways or climbing hills. The Santa Fe XRT typically comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and efficient gear changes. Handling is generally composed, offering a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. While the XRT trim doesn't include any specific off-road enhancements, the available all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability in various weather conditions.

Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT provides a balance between power and fuel efficiency. The standard 2.5-liter engine offers decent fuel economy, typically achieving around 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The more powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged engine sacrifices some fuel efficiency for increased performance, with estimates around 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. These figures are competitive within the mid-size SUV segment. Keep in mind that actual fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions and habits. However, the Santa Fe XRT is designed to provide a reasonably efficient and enjoyable driving experience.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT, you'll find a comfortable and well-equipped cabin designed with both the driver and passengers in mind. The interior boasts quality materials and a thoughtful layout, creating a pleasant atmosphere for long journeys. The seats are generally supportive and offer ample cushioning, ensuring a comfortable ride even on rough roads. The XRT trim typically includes features such as cloth or leatherette upholstery, depending on the specific package. In terms of technology, the Santa Fe XRT comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims offer a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and other advanced features. The infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, making it easy to access various functions and settings. Other notable tech features include a wireless smartphone charging pad, a premium audio system, and a digital instrument cluster.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The infotainment system in the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is a standout feature, offering a range of connectivity options to keep you entertained and informed on the road. The standard 8-inch touchscreen is intuitive and easy to navigate, providing access to essential functions such as audio, climate control, and smartphone integration. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and contacts. Upgrading to the larger 10.25-inch touchscreen adds navigation, voice recognition, and other advanced features. The Santa Fe XRT also offers multiple USB ports, allowing you to charge your devices while on the go. A wireless smartphone charging pad is available, eliminating the need for messy cables. The premium audio system delivers crisp and clear sound quality, enhancing your overall driving experience. With its comprehensive suite of infotainment and connectivity features, the Santa Fe XRT ensures that you stay connected and entertained on every journey.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT, and it comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of collisions. The Santa Fe XRT also includes a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of what's behind the vehicle when backing up. Higher trims offer additional safety features such as a surround-view monitor, which gives you a 360-degree view of your surroundings, and a blind-spot view monitor, which displays a live video feed of your blind spots in the instrument cluster when you activate the turn signal. The Santa Fe has earned excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable SUV.

Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)

The advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT provide an extra layer of safety and convenience, helping you stay aware of your surroundings and avoid potential hazards. The forward collision warning system uses sensors to detect vehicles or pedestrians in front of you and alerts you to a potential collision. If you don't respond in time, the automatic emergency braking system can automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate a collision. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, while lane keeping assist can gently steer the vehicle back into the lane. Blind-spot monitoring alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, while rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space. Adaptive cruise control automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. These ADAS features work together to enhance your driving experience and provide added peace of mind.

Reliability and Maintenance

When considering the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT, reliability and maintenance are important factors to keep in mind. Hyundai has made significant strides in improving its reliability ratings in recent years, and the Santa Fe is generally considered to be a dependable SUV. However, like any vehicle, regular maintenance is essential to keep it running smoothly. The Santa Fe XRT comes with a comprehensive warranty, which covers many potential repairs and issues. Hyundai also offers a variety of maintenance plans, which can help you budget for routine services such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. Following the recommended maintenance schedule outlined in the owner's manual is crucial for preserving the longevity and reliability of your Santa Fe XRT. Additionally, addressing any minor issues promptly can help prevent them from escalating into more significant problems down the road. Overall, with proper care and maintenance, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT should provide years of reliable service.

Warranty and Maintenance Plans

Understanding the warranty and maintenance plans available for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT can provide peace of mind and help you budget for long-term ownership costs. Hyundai offers one of the most comprehensive warranties in the industry, which includes a 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. This extensive coverage protects you against potential defects and failures, reducing your financial risk. In addition to the warranty, Hyundai offers a range of maintenance plans that can be tailored to your specific needs. These plans typically cover routine services such as oil changes, filter replacements, and tire rotations. By prepaying for these services, you can lock in a fixed price and avoid unexpected maintenance expenses. Furthermore, regular maintenance can help identify potential issues early on, preventing them from turning into more costly repairs. Carefully reviewing the warranty and maintenance plan options can help you make informed decisions and ensure that your Santa Fe XRT remains in top condition for years to come.

Pros and Cons

To help you make an informed decision about the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT, let's summarize the pros and cons:

Pros:

  • Stylish and Rugged Design: The XRT trim offers a unique and appealing aesthetic.
  • Comfortable and Well-Equipped Interior: The cabin is designed with both comfort and convenience in mind.
  • Available Turbocharged Engine: Provides ample power for those seeking more spirited performance.
  • Comprehensive Safety Features: Includes a wide range of advanced safety technologies.
  • Excellent Warranty: Hyundai offers one of the best warranties in the industry.

Cons:

  • No Significant Off-Road Upgrades: The XRT trim is primarily an appearance package.
  • Fuel Economy: The turbocharged engine sacrifices some fuel efficiency.
  • Base Engine Can Feel Underpowered: The standard engine may not be sufficient for all drivers.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT? Overall, it's a solid choice for those seeking a stylish and well-equipped SUV with a touch of ruggedness. The XRT trim adds a unique visual appeal that sets it apart from other Santa Fe models. The interior is comfortable and packed with technology, while the available turbocharged engine provides ample power for most driving situations. While it may not be a true off-roader, the Santa Fe XRT offers a compelling blend of style, comfort, and practicality. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV and appreciate a more adventurous aesthetic, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and choose the engine option that best suits your needs.