Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy Trim: A Detailed Review
The Hyundai Santa Fe has long been a strong contender in the competitive mid-size SUV segment, known for its value proposition, spacious interior, and comprehensive features. In recent years, Hyundai has elevated the Santa Fe’s appeal with the introduction of the Calligraphy trim, positioning it as the pinnacle of luxury and refinement within the model lineup. This review delves into the details of the Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy trim, exploring its design, interior features, technology, performance, and overall value.
Exterior Design: A Statement of Sophistication
The Calligraphy trim distinguishes itself from other Santa Fe models with a host of exterior enhancements that exude sophistication and elevate its visual presence. The most notable difference is the unique front grille, which features a distinctive geometric pattern finished in a dark chrome. This grille design lends the Santa Fe Calligraphy a more upscale and assertive look, setting it apart from the more conventional grilles found on lower trims.
Adding to the premium aesthetic are the body-color cladding and door handles, which create a seamless and cohesive appearance. The standard 20-inch alloy wheels, with their intricate design and polished finish, further enhance the vehicle’s visual appeal, giving it a more substantial and refined stance. The rear of the Santa Fe Calligraphy also receives special attention, with unique taillight detailing and a distinctive rear bumper design.
The overall effect of these exterior enhancements is a mid-size SUV that looks and feels more luxurious than its price tag might suggest. The Santa Fe Calligraphy manages to strike a balance between understated elegance and modern styling, making it an attractive option for buyers who want a vehicle that stands out from the crowd without being overly ostentatious.
Interior Design and Comfort: A Sanctuary of Luxury
Stepping inside the Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy is an experience that truly sets it apart from its competitors. The interior is meticulously crafted with premium materials and attention to detail, creating a luxurious and comfortable environment for both the driver and passengers.
The seats are upholstered in quilted Nappa leather, which is soft to the touch and provides excellent support. The driver’s seat features power adjustments, including lumbar support, allowing for a customized and comfortable driving position. The front seats are also heated and ventilated, ensuring optimal comfort in any weather condition.
The dashboard and door panels are adorned with premium trim accents, such as woodgrain or brushed aluminum, depending on the chosen interior color scheme. These accents add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the cabin, elevating the overall ambiance.
The Santa Fe Calligraphy also offers a range of convenience features that enhance the driving experience. These include a panoramic sunroof, which floods the cabin with natural light, a head-up display, which projects important information onto the windshield, and a surround-view monitor, which provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings.
Technology and Features: Cutting-Edge Innovation
The Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced technology features that enhance connectivity, safety, and convenience. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, which is intuitive to use and offers crisp graphics. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing seamless integration with smartphones.
The Calligraphy trim also comes standard with a premium Harman Kardon sound system, which delivers exceptional audio quality throughout the cabin. The system includes multiple speakers and a subwoofer, providing a rich and immersive listening experience.
In terms of safety technology, the Santa Fe Calligraphy is equipped with a wide range of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection: Helps prevent or mitigate frontal collisions by automatically applying the brakes if a pedestrian or vehicle is detected in the vehicle’s path.
- Lane Keeping Assist: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing steering assistance if the vehicle begins to drift.
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist: Monitors the vehicle’s blind spots and provides a warning if a vehicle is detected. It can also provide steering assistance to help prevent a collision.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist: Detects vehicles approaching from the sides while backing up and automatically applies the brakes if a collision is imminent.
- Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead and can automatically accelerate and brake to maintain that distance.
These safety features provide an added layer of protection for the driver and passengers, making the Santa Fe Calligraphy a safe and confident choice.
Performance and Handling: Smooth and Refined
The Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy is available with a choice of two engines: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an optional 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The standard engine produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, while the turbocharged engine produces 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.
Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and responsive gear changes. The Santa Fe Calligraphy is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The ride quality of the Santa Fe Calligraphy is smooth and comfortable, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. The vehicle handles well in corners, providing a confident and controlled driving experience. The steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver the vehicle in tight spaces.
The turbocharged engine provides ample power for acceleration and passing, making it a good choice for drivers who want a more spirited driving experience. The standard engine is adequate for most driving situations, but it may feel a bit underpowered when fully loaded with passengers and cargo.
Value and Conclusion: A Compelling Choice
The Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy trim offers a compelling combination of luxury, features, and value. It provides a level of refinement and sophistication that is typically found in more expensive vehicles. The exterior design is elegant and eye-catching, while the interior is luxurious and comfortable. The vehicle is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced technology features, including a user-friendly infotainment system and a wide range of safety features. The performance is smooth and refined, providing a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
The Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy is a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. It offers a compelling alternative to more expensive luxury SUVs, providing a similar level of features and refinement at a more affordable price point. For buyers who are looking for a luxurious and well-equipped mid-size SUV that won’t break the bank, the Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy is definitely worth considering. Its blend of style, comfort, technology, and value makes it a standout choice in its class.
