Michael Satterfield
Hyundai’s 2024 Santa Fe Calligraphy demands attention for its striking appearance and an impressive array of features at a price point that will leave most people in sticker shock but in a good way. Our test vehicle is finished in an optional Earth Brass Matte, with a dove grey and brown interior; this SUV combines rugged aesthetics with luxurious comfort, setting a new standard in its class. Cover the badges, and you would be hard-pressed to find anyone who would guess it is a Hyundai.
The 2024 Santa Fe Calligraphy is a visual masterpiece. The Earth Brass Matte finish is not just a color; it’s a statement. This matte finish, often only offered by luxury brands, gives the vehicle a bold and sophisticated look. The blocky, wide-body design echoes the ruggedness of a Land Rover Defender, but with a distinctly Hyundai flair.
From the front, the Santa Fe’s grille is aggressive yet refined, featuring intricate patterns that catch the light differently depending on the angle. The LED headlights are sleek and wrap around to the sides, integrating seamlessly with the overall design, and when they light up they form an H. The side profile reveals strong character lines and a muscular stance, enhanced by the 21-inch alloy wheels that not only look robust but also improve road handling. The rear is equally striking, with LED tail lights that mirror the front’s sleek design, and dual exhaust tips that hint at the power beneath the hood.
Stepping inside the Santa Fe Calligraphy, the first thing you notice is the meticulous attention to detail. The interior, a blend of grey and brown tones, exudes a sense of calm and sophistication. The seats are upholstered in premium Nappa leather, providing a soft yet supportive seating experience. The contrast stitching adds a touch of craftsmanship, highlighting Hyundai’s commitment to quality.
The cabin layout is driver-focused, with all controls intuitively placed within easy reach. The center console is dominated by a pair of 12.3-inch displays, one for the digital instrument cluster and the other for the infotainment system. These screens are housed in a curved enclosure that adds a futuristic touch to the dashboard. The infotainment system is highly responsive and user-friendly, supporting both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Under the hood, the 2024 Santa Fe Calligraphy features a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that ensures smooth and precise shifts. The powertrain offers robust performance, making highway merging and overtaking effortless.
The suspension setup strikes a perfect balance between comfort and handling. Even with its large wheels, the Santa Fe absorbs road imperfections gracefully, providing a smooth ride. On winding roads, the SUV remains composed, with minimal body roll, thanks to its well-tuned chassis. The steering is direct and offers good feedback, making the vehicle feel nimble despite its size.
The 2024 Santa Fe Calligraphy is packed with technology that enhances both convenience and safety. The digital gauge cluster is clear and customizable, allowing drivers to access essential information at a glance. The infotainment system, besides supporting smartphone integration, also includes a premium Bose audio system that delivers crisp and immersive sound quality.
One standout feature is the UV-C sterilizer compartment in the dashboard, designed to sanitize small items like phones and keys. This is a thoughtful addition in today’s health-conscious environment. The vehicle also features dual wireless charging pads, ensuring that all passengers can keep their devices powered up without the hassle of cords.
Hyundai has equipped the Santa Fe Calligraphy with a suite of advanced safety features. Standard equipment includes forward collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. The Highway Driving Assist 2 system combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering to provide a semi-autonomous driving experience on highways.
Additionally, the 360-degree camera system offers a live 3D view, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze. The Santa Fe has also received top safety ratings, including the IIHS Top Safety Pick award, which speaks volumes about its protective capabilities.
The Santa Fe Calligraphy is not just about luxury and performance; it is also highly practical. The second-row captain’s chairs provide excellent comfort and can slide and recline to accommodate passengers of all sizes. The third row, while a bit tight for adults on long journeys, is perfectly suitable for children and short trips. With the third row folded down, the cargo space expands significantly, making it easy to carry large items.
Accessing the cargo area is convenient thanks to the smart power liftgate, which opens automatically when you stand behind it with the key fob in your pocket. There are also thoughtful touches like grab handles on the C pillars, which help when accessing the roof rails for additional cargo.
Despite its powerful engine, the Santa Fe Calligraphy offers respectable fuel economy. The all-wheel-drive model achieves up to 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. These numbers are competitive within the segment and make the Santa Fe a practical choice for both city commuting and long-distance travel.
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy combines luxury, performance, and advanced technology in a compelling package. It offers a refined driving experience and a well-appointed interior that rivals more expensive competitors. If you’re in the market for a midsize SUV that doesn’t compromise on style or substance, the Santa Fe Calligraphy is a strong contender.
