Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD SUV. If you're in the market for a reliable, stylish, and feature-packed SUV, you've probably heard a thing or two about this one. Let's break it down and see what makes it a standout choice. We'll cover everything from its performance and interior comforts to its tech features and overall value. Buckle up; it's gonna be a fun ride!

Overview of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD is a popular pick in the mid-size SUV segment, and for good reason. It strikes a great balance between comfort, technology, and practicality. The SEL trim, in particular, offers a sweet spot of features without breaking the bank. The All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system adds an extra layer of confidence, especially if you live in areas with unpredictable weather conditions. The Santa Fe has consistently earned praise for its smooth ride, spacious cabin, and user-friendly technology. Hyundai has really stepped up its game in recent years, and the Santa Fe is a prime example of their commitment to quality and innovation. Whether you're hauling kids to school, commuting to work, or embarking on a weekend adventure, the Santa Fe is designed to handle it all with ease. Plus, with Hyundai's impressive warranty, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you're covered for the long haul. So, let's get into the nitty-gritty details and explore what makes this SUV a compelling choice for so many drivers.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD typically boasts a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a solid 191 horsepower, which provides ample power for daily driving. While it's not a powerhouse, it offers a smooth and responsive driving experience. The eight-speed automatic transmission ensures seamless gear changes, contributing to the overall refinement of the ride. The All-Wheel Drive system is a significant advantage, providing enhanced traction and stability, especially in wet or slippery conditions. This makes the Santa Fe SEL AWD a reliable choice for those living in areas with snow or frequent rain. Fuel economy is also quite respectable, with EPA estimates typically hovering around 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Of course, real-world mileage may vary depending on driving habits and conditions. Overall, the Santa Fe SEL AWD offers a balanced performance that's well-suited for a wide range of drivers and driving situations. It’s not designed to be a sports car, but it provides a confident and comfortable ride that's perfect for everyday use.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD, you'll immediately notice the thoughtfully designed and spacious cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a breeze. The SEL trim comes standard with features like heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver's seat, adding to the overall comfort. The interior materials are of good quality, giving the cabin a premium feel. The Santa Fe also excels in terms of technology. An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless smartphone connectivity. The system is intuitive and easy to use, making it simple to access your favorite apps, navigation, and music. Other notable tech features include a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and multiple USB ports. Higher trims offer even more advanced features like a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. Overall, the interior of the Santa Fe SEL AWD is a comfortable and tech-savvy space that's sure to please both drivers and passengers.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD doesn't disappoint. It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. These include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These features use sensors and cameras to monitor the road around you and help prevent accidents. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is also standard, providing an extra set of eyes when changing lanes or backing out of parking spaces. The Santa Fe has consistently earned high safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further demonstrating its commitment to safety. With its robust suite of safety features, the Santa Fe SEL AWD provides peace of mind on every journey. Hyundai's dedication to safety is evident in every aspect of the vehicle's design and engineering, making it a top choice for families and safety-conscious drivers.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD is both modern and eye-catching. It features a bold front grille, sleek headlights, and sculpted lines that give it a distinctive and stylish appearance. The SEL trim comes with alloy wheels, adding to its overall appeal. The Santa Fe's design strikes a good balance between ruggedness and sophistication, making it stand out in a crowded SUV market. The rear of the vehicle is equally well-designed, with LED taillights and a sporty spoiler. The overall aesthetic is clean and contemporary, reflecting Hyundai's evolving design language. Available in a variety of colors, you can choose a Santa Fe that reflects your personal style. Whether you prefer a classic white or a bold red, there's a color option to suit every taste. The exterior of the Santa Fe is not only visually appealing but also functional, with features like heated side mirrors and a hands-free smart liftgate adding to its convenience. Overall, the Santa Fe's exterior design is a major selling point, attracting buyers with its modern and stylish appearance.

Pros and Cons of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD

To give you a balanced view, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD. This will help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

Pros:

• Spacious and Comfortable Interior: The Santa Fe offers ample room for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for families and those who need extra space.
• User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with seamless smartphone integration.
• Comprehensive Safety Features: The Santa Fe comes standard with a wide range of advanced safety features, providing peace of mind on every journey.
• All-Wheel Drive Capability: The AWD system enhances traction and stability, making it a reliable choice for various weather conditions.
• Attractive Design: The Santa Fe boasts a modern and stylish exterior design that stands out in the SUV market.
• Excellent Value: The SEL trim offers a great balance of features at a competitive price point.
• Great Warranty: Hyundai's impressive warranty provides long-term peace of mind.

Cons:

• Engine Performance: While adequate for daily driving, the base engine may feel underpowered for some drivers, especially when fully loaded.
• Fuel Economy: While respectable, the fuel economy is not class-leading.
• Some Interior Materials: While generally good, some interior materials may not feel as premium as those in some competitors.
• Infotainment Screen Size: The standard 8-inch touchscreen is smaller than the screens offered in some rival SUVs.

Alternatives to the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD

If you're not entirely convinced that the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD is the right choice for you, there are several other SUVs in the same class that you might want to consider. Here are a few notable alternatives:

• Toyota RAV4: Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, the RAV4 is a popular choice in the compact SUV segment.
• Honda CR-V: The CR-V offers a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and a reputation for dependability.
• Nissan Rogue: The Rogue features a stylish design, a comfortable cabin, and a range of advanced technology features.
• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 is known for its sporty handling, upscale interior, and attractive design.
• Kia Sorento: The Sorento is a close relative of the Santa Fe, offering similar features and capabilities with a slightly different design.
• Ford Edge: The Edge provides a more powerful engine option and a sporty driving experience.

Each of these SUVs has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's worth doing your research and test-driving a few different models to see which one best fits your needs and preferences.

Conclusion: Is the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD Right for You?

So, is the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD the right SUV for you? Well, it really depends on what you're looking for. If you value a spacious and comfortable interior, user-friendly technology, a comprehensive suite of safety features, and the added confidence of all-wheel drive, then the Santa Fe SEL AWD is definitely worth considering. It offers a great balance of features at a competitive price point, making it an excellent value in the mid-size SUV segment.

However, if you prioritize engine performance or class-leading fuel economy, you might want to explore some of the alternatives mentioned earlier. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to take a Santa Fe SEL AWD for a test drive and see how it feels behind the wheel. Consider your specific needs and preferences, and don't be afraid to compare it to other SUVs in its class. With its attractive design, comfortable interior, and impressive array of features, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD is a strong contender in the mid-size SUV market. Happy car hunting, folks!