Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT to see if it lives up to the hype. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that blends rugged looks with everyday practicality, the Santa Fe XRT might be on your radar. But before you rush to the dealership, let's break down everything this model has to offer, from its distinctive styling and interior features to its performance and overall value. We'll be covering all the essential aspects to help you make an informed decision. Is the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT worth your hard-earned money? Let's find out!

What is Hyundai Santa Fe XRT?

The Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is a trim level designed to inject a bit of off-road flair into the already popular Santa Fe SUV. It's not a full-blown off-roader like some Jeep models, but it offers a more rugged appearance compared to the standard Santa Fe trims. The XRT stands out with its dark exterior accents, unique cladding, and exclusive wheel design, giving it a bolder and more adventurous look. This trim is aimed at buyers who want a vehicle that looks capable and ready for anything, even if their adventures are mostly limited to urban environments. The XRT package typically includes features like blacked-out trim, side steps, and sometimes roof rack cross rails, enhancing both its aesthetics and practicality. It’s important to note that while the XRT enhances the visual appeal, it doesn't usually include significant mechanical upgrades for serious off-roading. Instead, it focuses on delivering a distinctive style that sets it apart from the more common Santa Fe models. So, if you're looking to make a statement without sacrificing the comfort and reliability of a standard SUV, the Santa Fe XRT could be an excellent choice. The Santa Fe XRT is really appealing to drivers who want something different and it's a great option if you're looking to add some visual punch to your daily driving experience.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is where this trim level truly shines. It's all about making a statement and projecting a sense of adventure. The most noticeable change is the dark exterior trim, which replaces the chrome accents found on other Santa Fe models. This includes a dark grille, black mirror caps, and darkened window surrounds, giving the XRT a more aggressive and modern look. The unique cladding on the lower doors and bumpers adds to the rugged aesthetic, making it appear more capable and ready for off-road excursions, even though it's primarily a cosmetic upgrade. The exclusive wheel design is another key feature, with dark-finished alloy wheels that complement the overall theme. These wheels not only look great but also contribute to the vehicle's bolder stance. Side steps are often included, making it easier to get in and out of the vehicle, while also adding to its rugged appeal. Roof rack cross rails are another practical addition, allowing you to easily carry extra gear for your adventures. Overall, the exterior design of the Santa Fe XRT is well-executed, creating a visually appealing and distinctive SUV that stands out from the crowd. If you're someone who values aesthetics and wants a vehicle that reflects a sense of adventure, the XRT's exterior design is definitely a major selling point. The designers at Hyundai really nailed the balance between ruggedness and sophistication, making the Santa Fe XRT a head-turner on the road.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT, you'll find a comfortable and well-equipped cabin that balances practicality with modern features. While the XRT trim focuses primarily on exterior enhancements, the interior still offers a range of amenities designed to make your driving experience enjoyable. The seats are typically upholstered in durable cloth or synthetic leather, providing a comfortable and supportive ride. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with easy-to-reach controls and a user-friendly infotainment system. An 8-inch touchscreen display is standard, offering access to features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration with your smartphone. Higher trims may include a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation. The XRT also comes standard with a suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, providing added peace of mind on the road. Other standard features include a rearview camera, automatic headlights, and keyless entry. The interior of the Santa Fe XRT is designed with everyday usability in mind, offering plenty of storage space and comfortable seating for both passengers and cargo. While it may not have the same level of luxury as some of the higher trims, the XRT provides a solid foundation of features and comfort, making it a great choice for families and individuals alike. So, while the interior might not be the main selling point of the XRT, it's still a pleasant and functional space to spend your time on the road. Hyundai has done a great job of creating an interior that is both practical and comfortable, making the Santa Fe XRT a well-rounded package. And with all the standard tech and safety features, you'll feel confident and connected on every drive.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT offers a balanced driving experience that is well-suited for everyday use. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, producing around 191 horsepower, which provides adequate power for most driving situations. While it's not going to win any races, it offers smooth and reliable performance for daily commutes and family trips. For those looking for more power, there's an optional turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that bumps the horsepower up to around 281, providing a more spirited driving experience. The handling is predictable and comfortable, with a suspension that soaks up bumps and imperfections in the road. The Santa Fe XRT is not designed for serious off-roading, but it can handle light trails and gravel roads with ease. The all-wheel-drive system provides added traction in slippery conditions, making it a great choice for those who live in areas with snow or rain. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the performance and handling of the Santa Fe XRT are well-rounded and suitable for a wide range of drivers. Whether you're commuting to work or taking a weekend road trip, the Santa Fe XRT provides a comfortable and capable driving experience. And with the available turbocharged engine, you can add a little extra excitement to your daily drives. So, if you're looking for an SUV that is both practical and enjoyable to drive, the Santa Fe XRT is definitely worth considering.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is an important factor for many car buyers, and the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT offers competitive numbers in its class. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of around 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. These numbers are respectable for a mid-size SUV and make the Santa Fe XRT a practical choice for daily commuting and long road trips. The optional turbocharged 2.5-liter engine offers slightly lower fuel economy, with estimates around 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. While the turbocharged engine provides more power, it does come at a slight cost in fuel efficiency. However, the difference is not significant enough to deter most buyers, especially those who value the added performance. The Santa Fe XRT also comes with features like an Eco mode, which optimizes the engine and transmission settings to maximize fuel efficiency. This can be especially useful for long highway drives where fuel economy is a priority. Overall, the fuel efficiency of the Santa Fe XRT is competitive with other SUVs in its class, making it a practical and economical choice for a wide range of drivers. Whether you're looking to save money at the pump or reduce your carbon footprint, the Santa Fe XRT offers a good balance of fuel efficiency and performance. So, you can enjoy the benefits of a spacious and capable SUV without sacrificing too much in terms of fuel economy. And with the rising cost of gas, that's definitely a big plus!

Pricing and Value

When it comes to pricing and value, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT offers a compelling package that makes it an attractive option in the mid-size SUV market. The XRT trim typically starts at a price point that is slightly higher than the base SE trim but lower than the top-of-the-line Limited and Calligraphy trims. This positions the XRT as a mid-range option that offers a good balance of features and affordability. The value proposition of the XRT lies in its unique styling and rugged appearance, which sets it apart from other Santa Fe models. For those who want a vehicle that looks more adventurous without breaking the bank, the XRT is a great choice. The standard features included in the XRT trim, such as the dark exterior accents, unique cladding, and exclusive wheel design, add to its overall value. Additionally, the Santa Fe is known for its reliability and long warranty, which provides added peace of mind for buyers. Compared to its competitors, the Santa Fe XRT offers a similar level of features and performance at a competitive price point. This makes it a strong contender in the crowded mid-size SUV segment. Overall, the pricing and value of the Santa Fe XRT are well-aligned with its features and capabilities, making it a smart choice for those looking for a stylish and practical SUV without overspending. So, if you're on a budget but still want a vehicle that stands out from the crowd, the Santa Fe XRT is definitely worth considering. And with Hyundai's reputation for quality and reliability, you can be confident that you're getting a great value for your money.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT to give you a clear picture of what you're getting.

Pros:

• Unique Styling: The XRT trim offers a distinctive and rugged appearance that sets it apart from other Santa Fe models.
• Standard Features: It comes with a good selection of standard features, including a user-friendly infotainment system and a suite of safety technologies.
• Competitive Pricing: The XRT is priced competitively within the mid-size SUV segment, offering good value for the money.
• Comfortable Ride: The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride on various road surfaces.
• Available Turbocharged Engine: The optional turbocharged engine provides more power for those who want a more spirited driving experience.

Cons:

• Not a True Off-Roader: Despite its rugged appearance, the XRT is not designed for serious off-roading.
• Interior Lacks Luxury: The interior may not be as luxurious as some of the higher trims.
• Base Engine Can Feel Underpowered: The standard 2.5-liter engine may feel underpowered for some drivers, especially when fully loaded.
• Fuel Economy with Turbo Engine: Fuel economy drops slightly with the turbocharged engine.
• Limited Availability: Depending on your location, finding a Santa Fe XRT may be more challenging than other trims.

By weighing these pros and cons, you can get a better sense of whether the Santa Fe XRT is the right SUV for your needs and preferences. It's all about finding the right balance between style, features, and performance to match your individual driving habits and lifestyle.

Conclusion: Is the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT Worth It?

So, after taking a comprehensive look at the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT, the big question remains: is it worth it? The answer, as with many things, depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a mid-size SUV that offers a unique and rugged appearance without sacrificing everyday practicality, the Santa Fe XRT is definitely worth considering. Its distinctive styling, combined with a comfortable interior and a range of standard features, makes it an attractive option in the crowded SUV market. However, if you're planning on doing serious off-roading, the XRT may not be the best choice, as it's primarily a cosmetic upgrade. Additionally, if you're seeking a luxurious interior, you might want to consider one of the higher Santa Fe trims. Overall, the Santa Fe XRT offers a compelling package that balances style, features, and affordability. It's a great choice for families and individuals who want an SUV that stands out from the crowd and provides a comfortable and reliable driving experience. And with Hyundai's reputation for quality and a long warranty, you can be confident that you're getting a good value for your money. So, if you're in the market for a mid-size SUV, be sure to give the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT a close look. You might just find that it's the perfect fit for your needs and lifestyle. Thanks for joining me on this review, and happy driving!