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2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: SE vs SEL, XRT vs Limited and Calligraphy
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

Compare the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Trims - SE vs SEL, XRT vs Limited and Calligraphy. What is the difference between them?

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe is an ideal option for those looking to get a dependable and affordable vehicle with plenty of power. Sitting between the Tucson and Palisade models, it offers more space than its smaller counterpart but also maintains maneuverability like that of its larger sibling. Standard features include advanced driver-assisted technology as well many modern amenities - all at very competitive prices; no wonder why Hyundai has been gaining traction over recent years.

Hyundai's robust lineup of options include hybrid versions, as well as five different trim levels that are uniquely suited to individual needs. This article will provide potential buyers with an overview of the possibilities available through each model so they can confidently make an informed decision on their purchase journey.

Compare the Santa Fe SE vs SEL. What Is the Difference?

The base model of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe is called the SE. For just a bit more, the buyer can upgrade to the SEL level that comes with a few more nice perks. Both models come equipped with a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produces 191 horsepower with 181 pound-feet of torque. Both models also get an 8-speed automatic transmission with Hyundai's SHIFTRONIC technology for smooth and accurate shifting.

The Santa Fe is a five-passenger crossover SUV that offers flexible driving options with its front-wheel drive or optional HTRAC all-wheel drive. It features high strength steel unibody construction, MacPherson struts up front and multi link rear suspension for superior handling in any driving condition; plus the driver mode select allows drivers to adjust automatic shifting points according to terrain. To top it off, stylish 18" alloy wheels come standard on most models but you also have 19" & 20” available depending upon your preference of style over performance.

The Santa Fe's towing capacity is perfect for the adventurer, allowing you to bring all your gear without worry. But if 1,650 pounds isn’t enough, simply add on the optional trailer brake and expand it up to 2,000! And with 111.5 cubic-feet of passenger volume plus over 70 cubic feet or cargo space when folded down - there are plenty of possibilities in what this trim can take along wherever you go.

The SE and SEL both get LED headlights and taillights. LED daytime running lights are standard as well. The SEL gets integrated LED turn signals for the side mirrors. There are variable intermittent windshield wipers with two speeds up front and a rear intermittent wiper and washer in the back. The SEL gets the option for a panoramic sunroof and a smart liftgate with hands-free operation.

The interior of the Santa Fe is designed with comfort in mind. Those looking for a bit more style should upgrade to an SEL model which boasts leather-trimmed upholstery and 8-way power adjustable driver's seat complete with 2-way lumbar support. Meanwhile, passengers get spoilt by 60/40 split folding rear seats that recline and comfortable head rests - perfect for long trips.

The SE model gets a bare-bones infotainment system. There's an 8-inch color touchscreen and an AM/FM stereo. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity is included for both trim levels. Bluetooth technology allows for easy streaming of one's favorite music. There's a hands-free phone system onboard here too.

While the SEL basically has the same audio and multimedia setup, it does come with the option for some upgrades here. The audio can be swapped out for a premium system by Harman Kardon, complete with 12 speakers. This stereo also features Clari-Fi Music-Restoration Technology and QuantumLogic Surround. The SEL automatically gets an HD radio upgrade over the basic SE stereo.

The Santa Fe SEL is packed with driver-assist technology - from Proximity Key Entry and Push Button Start to advanced airbag systems, anti-lock brakes, Vehicle Stability Management and Electronic Stability Control. With optional LED ambient lighting inside for added comfort as well as features like Tire Pressure Monitoring System and Hillstart Assist Control on all trim levels, the safety of your ride will never be in question.

And if you upgrade to the SEL model, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance make sure no driving situation gets out of hand! Hyundai has crafted an incredibly technological marvel that looks great too.

Some other notable additions to the SEL trim level include a wireless smartphone charging pad, heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and roof rails for some extra storage space. The performance stats and handling are basically identical here. The base-level engine gets around 25 miles-per-gallon in the city and 28-miles-per-gallon on the highway.

Compare the SEL vs XRT Trim Levels. What Is the Difference?

With the Santa Fe XRT trim level, drivers can enjoy an aggressive exterior style complete with exclusive 18-inch wheels and a darkened finish. Not to worry about performance - this model has everything you need for power on regular roads or even off-roading adventures! An array of safety features as well as its renowned infotainment system also come standard so that your drive is smooth and secure no matter where life takes you.

The XRT gets Hyundai's Convenience Package which comes with a whole bunch of nice features. There's a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The smart liftgate that was only optional for the SEL now comes standard on the XRT. Integrated LED turn signals for the exterior mirrors are now added on automatically as well.

Dual automatic temperature control allows for separate settings for the driver and front passenger inside of the XRT. This trim level also gets an upgraded 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The second-row seats are easier to fold down in the XRT, thanks to the power release.

Compare the Santa Fe XRT vs Limited Trims. What Is the Difference?

With the Limited trim level, thrill seekers get to experience a real performance boost in their Santa Fe. This model is equipped with an upgraded turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, providing drivers with up to 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque - enough juice for truly remarkable acceleration and top speeds.

The Limited trim level gets the Convenience Package like the XRT trim. It also gets the Premium Package with features like an 8-way power passenger's seat, leather-trim upholstery and a panoramic sunroof. The Limited gets the excellent upgraded audio system from Harmon Kardon too. The Limited also gets an upgraded 10.25-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system.

A built-in navigation system gets added on to the infotainment system of the Limited. Ventilation is added to the front seats while heating gets added to the rear seats. Heating is of course still present up front. Hyundai's surround-view camera system makes parking in tight spots easier than ever. There's even an Automated Parking System to assist further with those tight and tricky situations.

The Limited trim level also gets a Blind-spot Camera. This camera gives a live display of the vehicle's blind-spots right in the digital cluster within easy view of the driver. This feature kicks on automatically when the driver changes lanes. Highway Driving Assist is yet another high-tech driving-assist feature added on here.

Behold the Limited - it offers all the power you could ask for and then some. Not only that, but its EPA estimated fuel-economy rating of 28 mpg means your wallet will thank you too! Don't underestimate this trim level; with a minimal price bump over XRT, there's no reason not to choose superior performance without sacrificing efficiency.

Compare the Limited vs Calligraphy. What Is the Difference?

The Calligraphy model is downright luxurious with everything that Hyundai has to offer thrown into it. It again comes with the turbocharged engine that first appeared on the Limited models. Both vehicles have the same horsepower, torque and steering dynamics. Both come with front-wheel drive while offering optional all-wheel drive. Both models get an upgraded 8-speed Wet Dual Clutch Transmission, again with Hyundai's SHIFTRONIC technology.

On the outside, the Calligraphy comes with some new exclusive trim and a set of 20-inch wheels. On the inside, there's fine-leather upholstery with some exceptional-quality stitch work. A fancy heads-up display projects important driver information right onto the windshield where it will be easier to view. The interior also features a faux-suede headliner and ambient interior lighting.

The Calligraphy comes equipped with the Convenience and Premium Packages just like the Limited, with all of the features that those packages entail. The safety features are almost identical here when comparing the Limited and Calligraphy trim levels. The leather-wrapped steering wheel gets upgraded with some finer-quality perforated leather. All of the power windows get an auto up/down feature in the front and in the rear for this top trim level.

Final Thoughts

With its impressive performance, attractive design and comfortable interior, this compact SUV is sure to be a hit. And for those looking for the best balance of features and cost-efficiency there's no better choice than the Limited trim level. Not only does it come with all the bells & whistles from both Convenience and Premium packages but buyers can also enjoy additional luxuries such as heated seats in back row or ventilated seating up front! A rarity among SUVs - you don't want to miss out on this great offer.

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2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Trime Levels