2024 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT Review and Off-Road Test

[@Neberheim]

The NPS warning is very real. I also didn’t think they really cared about the difference until I’d talked to the backcountry office and read the definition: “A four wheel drive vehicle is defined as a sport utility vehicle (SUV) or truck with at least 15-inch tire rims and at least eight inches of clearance from the lowest point of the frame, body, suspension, or differential to the ground. Four wheel drive vehicles have a transfer case between the front and rear axles that locks the front and rear drive shafts together when four wheel drive is engaged. All wheel drive (AWD) vehicles do not meet this definition.”

[@ishaansaral502]

It is strange how Hyundai has made no effort to improve the AWD system in the US. In Europe we have mud, sand and snow terrain modes which are seperate from drive modes. They work pretty well actually, and have also been tested by CarExpert. They DO have the capability, but don't seem to bother for the US market.

[@arashparseh3077]

Bro, I deeply enjoy every second of you do. Thank you! You push their cars to their limits. You always stay loyal to your followers and giving them your real thoughts, and usually unbiased. 🙏

[@rondail5675]

I like that the exterior looks different. So many SUVs look very similar. I would never use a dct transmission off-road.

[@vladimirsvetlov1243]

You haven't climbed in to test sleepability in ages 🐺👍 Nice to see you back in form.

[@CharlesBarone-d7p]

I was in a similar situation, deep blow sand, "way out there" no cell service and miles from a paved road. Finally, I thought to turn off traction control, and that got me out. Santa Fe XRT is nice, comfortable and looks good, but it is not my old Jeep CJ-5.

[@iwazaru8101]

Ryan, the "My Drive" mode instead of "Snow" or "Sport" would have gotten you through the logs section! Just kidding. Actually, it's the tires. Put a set of KO3s or AT4Ws on this thing and it will get pass the logs. Kidding again. "Be realistic" is the key message here. Your trails and tests are what separate the contenders and the pretenders. Love this channel.

[@The0Kuki]

who is contender in an SUV segment? really asking. Need a new car and what something that is looking good, drives good and has better than this santafe offroad capabilities.

[@isaiahpena5512]

@@The0Kukisame

[@javierlugo259]

Good to see an honest review instead of the usual fluffy ones......Many Thanks.

[@germanjimenez5968]

This vehicle is designed for low-level off-road. It's not designed for rock climbing, Baja 500, steep climbing, crossing a river, etc... So, people don't kill the messenger and the presenter. 😅

[@ValFinale]

If it can’t even drive over logs in the dirt it’s meant for the Costco parking lot

[@germanjimenez5968]

@ValFinale , lol. And on a cleared weather it can cross the parking lot a lot better. . Lol

[@ValFinale]

@@germanjimenez5968 it’s just stupid their commercials make it seem like this is some wrangler or even Subaru contender. It can’t touch either. I guess who falls for marketing deserves it 🤷‍♂️

[@charlesbarone3935]

@@ValFinale It can, you just have to use a little (not a lot either) of momentum.

[@user-qvv8yr7yhq]

I really enjoyed watching this video. It helps me to save money. 😎

[@jimathanasopoulos2234]

This is a very good SUV but everyone knows it's only suitable for light off-road duties. In Australia it is sold with more off-road modes but most who buy it will use solely as a family wagon and will love it. A product should be measured for excellence against its intended function. A Porsche 911 would make for an ordinary family car, even if it can fulfil that function at a pinch.

[@urhiredhr421]

Using the screens are simple! All of the "buttons" on the left of your steering wheel operate the left screen. All of the "buttons" on the right side of the wheel operate the right screen! Easy to remember and use!

[@lukiw7044]

Brick body looks very nice. 99% people won't try it off road. Thanks Ryan for take it off road for us. Great review. Greetings

[@jamesmason3798]

Lego made a crossover😂 it's a pavement princess.

[@tritchie6272]

Don't that describe crossovers in General? Although at 19 in I'm beginning to think this may be more so than some.

[@charlesbarone3935]

It does an okay job on rough or sandy trails, if you keep moving and don't crawl along and stop at every obstacle. I'd never take it on a real off road course, but moderate primitive trails, the XRT does just fine - or at least mine does. I'm confident enough in it now to go 'way out there' on old, abandoned dirt and sandy wagon trails to search out old homesteads and ghost towns.

[@AnySumptionBanter]

I saw one on the road. Whomever is designing since the 2011, really polarizing. But not digging the 'H'. That flat wagon back is refreshing after seeing so many rounded SUV losing space in the rear. This is a great test course you have that really shows the huge differences in the hardware and software vehicles come with.

[@tritchie6272]

I agree about the flat back. To me a slanted back,or a back that is to rounded seems to defeat the purpose of a crossover.

[@charlesbarone3935]

@@tritchie6272 I'll tell you something else about the matte finish. If you get bird droppings or similar on it, be careful when removing them. The acids turn it 'shiny,' leaving blotches. If I had to do it again, I'd have opted for a normal paint. I have the copper or brass matte (whatever they call it).

[@haze1123]

Love your reviews!!! It looks really good... that's what matters, right? I think 99% of consumers don't want or need actual rugged off road capability. They just want the LOOK. Same reason that all the soccer moms wear Patagonia and North Face. 🤣

[@kevincinnamontoast3669]

TURN ON THE HEATED SEATS to clear logs, duh.

[@OneBaldingWookiee]

3:28 As someone who is 6ft even, legs torso proportionate, the Palisade’s 3rd row is also very, very tight.

[@jre617]

Good review. I like your thorough off-road reviews. Please always find out and report on torque distribution, both default and how much can be shifted front to rear. Most reviewers don't do that, thanks.

[@99hamcam]

It’s funny you were talking about the headrest pushing your head forward. I find all modern cars have that weird uncomfortable headrest now. Do you guys(the car reviewers) not tell car companies? And why do car makers think everyone wants an oversized center console that takes all the legroom? I miss older cars and especially older trucks where there was some open space.

[@nikolanikolov4287]

Very good review! And yes, don't drive that vehicle off-road. Also don't try to climb Mauna Kea Summit with it, if you rent it in Hawaii.

[@billr4283]

I ‘was’ interested primarily due to cargo space…but with it’s off-road performance in very simple terrain and the lack of comfort …NOT FOR US!! Thanks…again!!!

[@aahmed29]

Nowadays, many car infotainment screens are angled towards the driver, intended to create a "driver-focused" environment. However, this design often makes it challenging for the front passenger to perform tasks such as changing radio stations, accessing playlists, or adjusting settings. The passenger may need to lean toward the driver, potentially distracting them from the road. In certain cases, the passenger may even just ask the driver to make all adjustments if needed, which not only adds extra workload for the driver but also raises safety concerns. It seems that contemporary engineers might not be fully considering these practical issues; their design choices seems to prioritize aesthetics over functionality.

[@JoelFountain]

Great informative review, especially comparing this off road performance and the Mazda CX-70. Really hoping you can take the Outlander PHEV on the same course one day!

[@파츠매니저]

Good 👍🏻 It looks more stylish with roof basket side ladder box

[@yofoo138]

It’s a mall crawler that’s all but it is a nice vehicle for the family

[@krashnpa]

What the Flex would be today!

[@RoguePlanetStudio]

Or a stretched scion xb, they did have an AWD version in Japan

[@jraheemjefcoat429]

I see more Defender than Flex. People from overseas dont know what a Flex is. Ford only sold them in North America.

[@CharlesBarone-d7p]

No use for the 3rd row, and I'll add that damned moonroof as well.

[@jraheemjefcoat429]

@CharlesBarone-d7p It has a moonroof? And do you mean that YOU won't use it? I didn't know you were speaking on behalf of the general public. It's good for me to have an emergency 3rd row haul my nieces and nephews around because I'm just that cool of an uncle. 😎

[@urhiredhr421]

I;m never taking my 42k vehicle off road! It's too luxurious!

[@caliadventures6475]

It seems off-roading with a Hyundai might not be your specialty, as I noticed you had some difficulty maneuvering in the terrain. Shifting to a lower gear or using other techniques can help improve control in challenging conditions. Since you went off-road to test the vehicle's capabilities, having some familiarity with off-road handling can be beneficial. While it's true that Hyundai vehicles aren’t designed for heavy off-road situations, you could likely navigate out of this without too much trouble. Are you supporting another vehicle in this test?

[@alh5470]

Telling driving sports TV how to properly off road 😂😂😂😂

[@luchoportuano777-s9d]

@@alh5470 he make great content but is not a great offroader

[@crazzei]

Calling this a station wagon is diabolical

[@Liriqos]

GREAT REVIEW, Thanks

[@edwardbyrd7667]

3:34. 150 watts is not better than nothing, it is nothing. 18:00 Thanks for weighing in on the AWD vs 4WD NPS noise. Well said.

[@germanjimenez5968]

How is the towing?

[@josesuayandds4003]

It seems to me that the software solution to applying torque to the proper wheels is a simple. BMW's x-drive is a good example of an instantaneous application of torque to the non-spinning wheel.

[@FlameClone]

They need to fix that rear.

[@wesleytingey248]

Looks so goofy

[@sameerhussain2579]

it looks like the rear end was given to an internee to finish the design

[@jediguy634]

The non-XRT versions feel like its trying to tap the market the Ford Flex was shooting for. 3 row Wagon style that bigger than a Explorer but smaller than an Expedition.

[@ColdGrandTetons]

I like love the design of this car so much. It just catches my eye. But it’s also a Hyundai so the concerns around theft, based on recent years with the KIA’s and Hyundai’s, makes me nervous lol. Thanks for the video!!

[@jraheemjefcoat429]

I remembered Hondas were being stolen in the 90s. The technology on this Santa Fe is way better, and all comes with a push to start. So, the theft issue has been resolved. As for reliability, have you watched the news lately? Toyotas are being recalled left and right. Some with transmission issues with their 4cyl turbos.

[@Runningwithmike]

Glad you made this video you made my mind up now

[@jraheemjefcoat429]

I saw an earth brass matte paint color one on the road the other, and it looks stunning! I'm in love with the new Santa Fe! The back end reminds me of a G-Wagon with the swing gate and tire on the back. Or a Land Rover LR3 with Defender vibes throughout. A G-Wagon also has lower taillights. I dont see one gripe about that, and it's a status quo vehicle.. Go figure!

[@CharlesBarone-d7p]

I've got the brass color. Already racked up almost 5000 miles with around 10% light to moderate off pavement. Not a single complaint. I just have to keep reminding myself I'm not longer in my old Jeep CJ-5.

[@robertmoore119]

Every time the vehicle thought it should transfer power, you backed off the throttle and stabbed the brakes.

[@ironspear5099]

I would like to see Jeep Grand Cherokee L with Quadra Trac I vs Quadra Trac II on your testing ground so we can see real world difference

[@dimionlee6951]

Thus is a korean version of Off road looking car. There's no forward facing camera, no fog lights, off-road looking tires??, no side mirror camera, no skid plates, no recovery tow hooks.. but drives good and my wife likes it! I won't deive anywhere off-road.

[@edsmith9855]

Love your channel. The best car testing channel on the internet. Glad to see that you are getting back to crossovers after testing so many hard core (and expensive) off roaders recently. As to the vehicle, I dont like the grill, and it somehow looks out of proportion from the side view.

[@Betamax84]

“I like it…I wouldn’t buy one personally…”😂😂😂

[@germanjimenez5968]

Good presentation 👏

[@raidersamson3356]

Bro, no one has thought about taking this car off the road, the thing has a hard time staying on the road without having the transmission fall off.

[@ChristianRunsNY]

You greatly underestimate some people's expectation of these crossovers and the "Off Road" models, like XRT.

[@roseporter3150]

Thanks for the video, very informational! One piece I do want to comment on...we bought one because of the seats. Having back problems myself, the stiffer back on the seats were way better for me. We tried so many different makes and models and plush seats that seem to be a standard everywhere caused pain very quickly. So far the SantaFe has met our needs but as you say, time will tell if it lasts. 🤞

[@bradbaraniuk4085]

does the tucson have have the same system

[@CalvinHikes]

I like the design. And I think hyundai and kia are making terrific vehicles. But i'm still nervous about those four bangers pumping out 300 horsepower.

[@MikeDancy]

I was interested in one but once I saw that slip at 15:35, I was out. We have a cottage road like that, my 08 CRV dominates it.

[@sansin6250]

But how long will the transmission last?

[@NinoTheCorso]

How much water can these cars drive through? ChatGPT saying 3 feet. That sounds a little aggressive...

[@kkdarling]

I read 20"

[@An_Enraged_Pig]

I just bought one. I’m not taking it off road lol. Mines in matte paint, I hope I don’t regret that

[@hakansalihoglu]

I am comparing it with Mercedes except for the engine power. This one is cheaper, Mercedes is 100 thousand empty, 180-200 thousand dollars full. The differences are cup heating and cooling, better sound system, long-low beam assistant and intermittent massage to increase blood circulation and prevent you from falling asleep. Also automatic closing and opening seats etc. I am thinking is this a Mercedes or not? I am comparing it with GLS

[@barrygrossman8062]

This guy wants an $85,000 ride for a $42,000 actual sticker price. He wants the capability of a Rubicon with the plushness of a Range Rover. I’ve been over those trails he is demonstrating particularly with a Rubicon and in the early 80s a factory Toyotas 4x4 pick up and they are challenging for almost anything other than those twi vehicles…but now I live in the Midwest, I’m old and defiantly NOT going stump humping. And only the stupid, wealthy or neighbor who borrowed your Range Rover for the day would go there with any new vehicle. This vehicle has THE most value, comfort and capability on the market…for under $50, 000. Period.

[@ValFinale]

Love the look of this car. Sucks it’s as capable as a Prius

[@nilsalb]

Pls do a model y

[@EZapar]

I've seen this car in person. I wondered if it has tow points. Gonna need them.

[@drivingsports]

Just tow loops.

[@EZapar]

@@drivingsports Let's do it then!!

[@michaelwilson145777]

This video is a good summary of some of the many reasons you don’t buy a Hyundai

[@jacksonndoll5055]

Hmmm, you don't buy hyundai. I do.

[@DIYcoffee-ct7ii]

Lol the smooth brain comments

[@turbobros_online1561]

I really hope you test one of the hybrid versions.

[@Laughingtulfo]

Would u choose an Outback over this?

[@drivingsports]

Yup. If I didn’t need the third row.

[@Laughingtulfo]

@@drivingsports thanks sir! Love your videos! A big fan here from canada! You remind me of John Lithgow! (As a compliment)

[@LPM84.]

I'm waiting for subaru to give the accent the "WILDERNESS EDITION " treatment.

[@ryanevans2655]

Pumped to see the Ioniq 5 XRT test!

[@brohammer]

Dual clutch: I’m out

[@lawdog516]

AGREED !!! A wet dual clutch should not be used in a family hauler, it belongs in a sports car, the engineers that made that decision should be fired

[@paulneil7321]

Car Confections channel bought this car and they had issues with transmission twice in 3 months.

[@edsmith9855]

I agree also. Dont understand why they still have the dual clutch in this model. Even uplevel Kona/Seltos models have a regular 8 speed auto.

[@下田洋介-w4z]

@@edsmith9855 DCT is cheaper than AT, that's it, AT is very expensive.

[@germanfisch]

@@下田洋介-w4zbut the kona and seltos is supposed to be cheaper

[@tiendv747]

Will you review the GWM cars? like Tank300 or Tank500.

[@svetoslavss]

WTF are you doing with this type of vehicle in this environment

[@Runningwithmike]

This video made me decide between 1.honda pilot TS 2.Nissan pathfinder rockcreek 3. Outback wilderness

[@kcpncfs9234]

hmm.. it feels exactly the same as the XRT of Palisade and Tuscon, ...and the XPRO of Sorento...

[@ValFinale]

Aka a fraud

[@robertsn6584]

And toyota people are a cult . You have new toyotas blowing engines and transmission. Ford's literally fall apart. People still buy them too. At least hyundai has a warranty thats longer than 3 years .

[@matthewm3912]

I am so over these big 3 row crossovers with crappy turbo-4's

[@youtubecarspottersguide1]

same here cant stand 3rd rows , no cargo space when in use and lot of us have no need, want or will ever have a use for a 3ed row I like cargo space

[@CobusDerrenberg]

GREAT video ! No thanx for the XRT 👎 Outback for me OBVIOUSLY 🤩😍👍👌✨

[@edsmith9855]

Definitely would pick the outback over this. For about the same price you could get the Outback Wilderness or XT with the turbo. Faster, better looking IMO, and better off road. Only thing you give up is the third row and some cargo space. I understand what others said about the boxy styling giving more interior space, but man, this thing is ugly.

[@christophersoutherlin2631]

The 4x4 lock button is just a software "while loop" 😂. Question: Does the off-road edition actually offer a full-size spare tire or a doughnut spare?

[@vtek2508]

Land rover in the front, 1999 Sienna in the back!

[@moloono1]

About the drive modes: Who actually listens to people who defend Hyundai 😂😂 They chose that hill to die on, LMFAO

[@scottpeck5851]

I own a 2022 Santa Fe XRT, which I really like. I may be wrong, but I tend to think Hyundai has made a huge misstep with this new generation.

[@LPM84.]

Im waiting on subaboobaroo to finally give their 3rd row ACCENT the "WILDERNESS" package treatment. That would be a no-brainer pick for a softroader midsized SUV.

[@LugsyTL]

3 row SUV's are Minivans without a sliding door

[@ahmedalawami7703]

I have a weird request, kia borrego 2009 or kia sorento 2009 have a proper 4WD body on frame trucks. i always wanted to see someone test them, and no one is better than you

[@dangerfield85]

Fancy Ford Flex you got there

[@michaelwilson145777]

My Mazda 3 turbo hatch is a better off roader than this thing lol

[@toddb6576]

After driving all the cool 4x4s you've driven, you looked you were being tortured to drive this 😅

[@FelixBouchardDetail]

Happy I got a Wilderness😂

[@Kusaland_CEO]

Still would get a subaru ascent over this

[@denault3985]

It's basically a station wagon or an improved Ford Flex.

[@rustlesee]

Toyota Previa vibes out back.

[@rayjensen4480]

Well Ryan, especially after wondering myself why Hyundai took so long getting you a new Santa Fe to test , my opinion is this: 1) This is what they get! And 2) I was seriously debating between another Ascent....or one of these. The XRT in particular, because of the higher ground clearance and the look. I HATE the fake leather seating. I HATE it in the Subarus as well. The instrumentation in the XRT version is the "cheezy" version for this model as well. The others have a much nicer, much more elaborate set up. But having waited and even asking you what was taking Hyundai so long to get you one to test.....I leased another Ascent. BOY AM I GLAD THAT I DID NOW! Sadly, it appears that the new Santa Fe is "all dressed up....with nowhere to go." It's a real shame.

[@Aimeen_]

Love my Calligraphy. Seats are way better. Already 3 road trips in. 10/10 would recommend. Got the hybrid, so no DCT.

[@ValFinale]

@@Aimeen_0 capability. Enjoy the parking lot

[@RichardVac]

Another soccer SUV

[@aritrabhattacharjee2227]

The backlights r so low...its a no go for me.

[@JoanBblythe]

92125 Bernhard Expressway

[@Sereno44]

This KZbinr must be very confused because looking at the Santa Fe, no way is an offer road

[@Tattytttyyyttrrdfg]

What this guy doing ?

[@celiafeconors216]

7441 Hartmann Mission

[@Tredh-l3i]

346 Meaghan Mountain

[@АлександрЛюберицкий]

SUV might be only with low range..

[@roberthutson2023]

I love your videos, and how in depth you are with your reviews, but to this day I seriously can't understand some things. Like it doesn't add much at all to just add that second wireless charger up front so that is just ridiculous like really!? And this whole Offroad trims is really getting annoying as well, I am perfectly fine and for having these trims but Manufacturers come on please..... look at what people do to their vehicles when they go offroading, the little ground clearance, and huge rims with small tires, like this stuff is not considered offroad! The manufacturers should really ask people who do offroading for a living and have them give you input on to building the perfect offroad trims!

[@FelixBouchardDetail]

I don't know if the engine is rattling but it would make me insane😂 would not be surprise thoughh

[@youtubecarspottersguide1]

like the dash, boxy shape , easy to see out of , passes my can I sleep in the back , dislikes 3rd row , std sun roof , price

[@lxstfer8012]

Can you please review the 2025 Toyota Camry

[@drivingsports]

On the same trail? 😂

[@lxstfer8012]

@drivingsports No since it was unveiled last year you never had the chance to revew it and just like you are reviewing some toyota vehicles

[@hey_guesswhat]

This is a DCT transmission! Off-roading even on a hybrid version of this makes no sense! It's just a station wagon. People, don't be a victim of marketing!

[@dsaryan]

14:13 wouldn’t take this off-road anywhere except maybe over a curb to get to a pizza shop. Sounds like these would be great as a rental or for urban family vehicle.

[@2URLex]

Hyundai should never be in the equation for off-road. They clearly only advertised styling and not capability. I wouldn’t listen to any Hyundai driver about real driving on road or off.

[@daveroush4896]

Strap a longboard to it and go to the beach to surf!🏄 to me it’s UGLY. I have a 2019 Santa Fe that I love