The new Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid clearly positions itself as a large and spacious SUV with an unexpectedly high quality feel, especially given the brand's traditionally more folksy image. The model is aimed primarily at those who need plenty of space for the family, appreciate a high level of comfort and prioritise function over brand status.

The Santa Fe is available in both 6- and 7-seat versions. The six-seater version stands out by offering two spacious second-row captain's chairs, giving rear seat passengers both extra comfort and freedom of movement. Passenger space and flexibility are among the car's key strengths; even in the back seat, adults sit comfortably, and cargo space is generous even with all seats in use.

The choice of materials and the general feeling of quality are significantly improved compared to previous generations. The dashboard is elegant, the controls feel solid and the infotainment system's graphics are modern, even if they can feel a bit bulky and take some getting used to.

Drivers enjoy an upright and comfortable seating position with a good view of the traffic. The suspension comfort is really good, the car is surprisingly quiet even at motorway speeds and the steering feels stable. The Santa Fe is clearly aimed at a target group that values relaxed long-distance travel over sporty driving; the chassis prioritises smooth running and isolation rather than dynamics.

The Plug-In Hybrid system provides the ability to drive on electricity for up to around 55 kilometres according to the WLTP cycle, but in real-world conditions the range can vary and often ends up slightly lower in mixed driving. When the battery is empty, a 1.6-litre petrol engine takes over. Petrol consumption is then usually around 7 litres per 100 kilometres, which is competitive for a SUV of this size.

The Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid manages to offer a level of quietness, comfort and equipment approaching that of the premium segment, without the price skyrocketing. Features such as ventilated seats, a panoramic roof and advanced driver assistance systems are available, as is a comprehensive safety package. The open and bright interior adds to the car's cosy feel.

One criticism often raised, and quickly confirmed on test drive, is the amount of warning signals the car gives out. All the assistive functions combined mean that the cabin is often filled with beeps and chirps. Turning off these alerts is also more cumbersome than necessary - there are no shortcut buttons, requiring navigation through sub-menus on the infotainment screen to set the desired sound level or switch off the functions.

The Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid stands out as a spacious, comfortable and well-equipped SUV for its price range. The high quality feel, the choice of six or seven seats and the surprising sense of luxury provide a lot of car for the money, as long as one can live with the sometimes excessive monitoring from the safety systems. For those who don't have strong brand preferences, this is a thoughtful and affordable choice in the larger SUV segment.

Hyundai Santa Fe

Price: From 689 900 SEK

Engine: 1.6 l 4-cylinder straight engine, electric

Power: 277 hp, 311 Nm. 

Transmission: 8-speed automatic four-wheel drive. Also available as front-wheel drive version.

Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 6.3 seconds.

Top speed: not available.

Weight: 1 818 to 2 090 kg.

Dimensions (length/width/height): 4 830/1 900/1 770 mm