Stablemate duel: Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5T Calligraphy vs. Calligraphy HEV

Hyundai Motor Philippines Incorporated has introduced the all-new Santa Fe Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) for the model year 2024. It was launched alongside the updated Tucson at the Hyundai Mobility Experience event held at the Alabang Town Center in Muntinlupa City. 

So, the question is, how does the new Calligraphy HEV trim compare against the  2.5T Calligraphy AWD in terms of specs? Are there any differences between the internal combustion (ICE) version and the electrified version? 

Let’s find out through this handy guide. 

Exterior

On the outside, the two versions of the Santa Fe Calligraphy trim are nearly identical. 

Up front, the model’s ICE and hybrid versions were kitted out with a boxy fascia sporting H-pattern LED daytime running lamps, rectangular headlamp clusters, and a boxy grille. 

For the side portion, both trims present the same angular wheel arches, black-colored decorative bits, and power-folding side mirrors. The two also get indistinguishable rear ends, which feature a power tailgate, a rear spoiler, and a pair of H-pattern LED combination lamps. 

Other exterior features common to both versions of the Santa Fe include rain-sensing wipers, a power-tilting sunroof, side repeater lamps, rear fog lamps, roof rails, and a dynamic welcome light. 

Completing the look of the hybrid and gasoline-powered Calligraphy variants is a set of black 21-inch wheels. 

The two variants are also equal in size. Both have a length of 4,830-millimeters (mm), a width of 1,900-mm, and a height of 1,780-mm. 

Interior

The interior styling of internal combustion (ICE) and HEV Santa Fe Calligraphy is also nearly interchangeable. The two trims feature a sleek dashboard filled with premium-looking metallic decorations combined with an abundance of soft-touch surfaces. 

The two also have similar Nappa leather-clad seating configurations: a bench-type third row, power-adjustable captain seats for the second row, and power-adjustable front seats. 

Concerning tech, however, the HEV gets a slightly different digital gauge cluster that can show hybrid-specific parameters. Otherwise, it has the same 12.3-inch width as the digital display on the ICE version. 

Both variants also get similar 12.3-inch infotainment systems, which are seamlessly linked to the aforementioned digital gauge. Moreover, the two also feature wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual wireless smartphone charging pads, and a set of six speakers. 

Other notable interior features found on the two versions of the Calligraphy include dual-zone automatic climate controls, paddle shifters, an electronic parking brake, 60:40 split-folding functionality for the third-row bench seat, and a push-to-start button, among others. 

Engine

While the ICE and HEV Calligraphy trims are certified twins in terms of exteriors and interiors, they use very different powertrains. 

For the Calligraphy HEV, it gets a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 mill paired with an electronic motor and a battery. In total, the said hybrid system can produce up to 232 horsepower (hp) and 367 Newton-meters of torque. Power is sent to all wheels via a six-speed automatic gearbox. It also has regenerative braking for efficient energy usage.  

In contrast, the Calligraphy ICE variant uses a larger 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 gasoline engine connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, which sends power to all wheels. At maximum, the aforementioned four-banger can make up to 277 hp and 422 Nm of torque. 

Output-wise, the ICE version trumps the HEV by a significant margin. The electrified model, however, is the only Santa Fe variant fitted with the Korean brand’s e-Dynamic drive. 

Through the use of the vehicle's electric motor, the e-Dynamic drive can optimize handling through torque vectoring. At the same time, it can provide additional traction, reduce ride discomfort from road bumps, and reduce vehicle vibrations during acceleration. 

Safety

Where safety is concerned, the two Calligraphy variants of the Santa Fe are equipped with a comprehensive kit. It features eight airbags, anti-lock braking, stability control, ISOFIX child seat anchors, parking sensors, a 360-degree monitor, tire-pressure monitoring, hill-start control, child safety locks, and downhill assist. 

The two trims also get loads of advanced driver-assist systems such as adaptive cruise control, collision-avoidance assist, rear occupant alert, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and lane following assist, among others. 

Pricing

• GLS AT 2WD: P2.41 million
• GLS AT AWD: P2.54 million
• 2.5T Calligraphy AWD: P3.1 million
• 1.6T Calligraphy HEV: P3.33 million

Verdict

When it comes to the sheer abundance of features, both ICE and HEV Calligraphy trims are winners on paper. So, folks who want the plushest version of Hyundai’s premier mid-size crossover have two good options to choose from.  

Then again, the HEV’s potential for fuel economy is hard to ignore, especially nowadays. Sure, the hybrid doesn’t get as much “oomph” as the ICE trim, but saving money through fuel efficiency is desirable for many buyers. 

In addition, the HEV gets some unique capabilities via its e-Dynamic drive system. So, for buyers who want the utmost safety and comfort from a vehicle, the said feature is one to look out for as well.

Serious buyers, however, should take each variant of the Santa Fe for a spin. Doing so, after all, may result in a more informed car purchase. 

Also read: 

Hyundai Motor PH unveils Tucson, Santa Fe hybrid versions

Hyundai Motor PH expects to sell at least 50 Tucson units per month

Hyundai to open N pop-up store in Alabang