Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD SUV. If you're in the market for a versatile, family-friendly SUV that offers a blend of comfort, technology, and capability, then the Santa Fe SEL AWD might just be what you're looking for. We'll explore everything from its performance and fuel efficiency to its interior features and safety tech. Buckle up, because we're about to take a detailed ride!

Overview of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD stands out as a well-rounded SUV in a competitive segment. It combines practicality with modern styling and a host of features that enhance both the driving experience and passenger comfort. As an all-wheel-drive (AWD) model, it provides added confidence in various driving conditions, making it suitable for those living in areas with inclement weather or who occasionally venture off the beaten path. The SEL trim level strikes a nice balance between affordability and features, offering many desirable amenities without breaking the bank. Hyundai has truly packed a punch with this model.

The Exterior Design: Bold and Modern

One of the first things you'll notice about the 2022 Santa Fe SEL AWD is its striking exterior design. The front fascia features a bold grille that integrates seamlessly with the LED headlights, creating a distinctive and modern look. The sculpted lines along the body give it a muscular stance, while the rear design is clean and contemporary. Alloy wheels add to its overall appeal, and practical features like roof rails enhance its versatility. The attention to detail in the exterior design makes the Santa Fe stand out in a crowded SUV market. The color options available also allow buyers to personalize their vehicle to their taste, whether they prefer a classic look or something more vibrant.

Interior Comfort and Technology: A Step Above

Stepping inside the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD, you're greeted with a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a pleasure. The use of quality materials throughout the interior gives it a premium feel. Technology is also a highlight, with an intuitive infotainment system that includes a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. A suite of advanced driver-assistance features adds to the overall safety and convenience. The interior is designed with the driver and passengers in mind, offering ample space and a range of amenities to enhance the overall experience. From the layout of the dashboard to the placement of the controls, everything is designed to be user-friendly and intuitive.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

Let's talk about what's under the hood. The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD typically comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a good balance of power and efficiency. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts. The all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, especially in challenging road conditions. Overall, the performance is adequate for daily driving and provides enough power for highway merging and passing. The fuel efficiency is also commendable, making it an economical choice for families and commuters alike. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections with ease. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Santa Fe offers a composed and enjoyable driving experience.

Engine and Transmission: Smooth and Reliable

The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine in the 2022 Santa Fe SEL AWD provides a respectable amount of power for most driving situations. While it may not be the most exhilarating engine in the segment, it offers a smooth and reliable performance. The eight-speed automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine, providing seamless gear changes that contribute to a comfortable and efficient driving experience. The combination of the engine and transmission makes the Santa Fe a practical and dependable choice for everyday use. Hyundai has engineered this powertrain to be both durable and easy to maintain, ensuring that owners can enjoy years of trouble-free service.

Fuel Economy: Economical for Daily Driving

Fuel economy is an important consideration for many car buyers, and the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD delivers reasonable numbers in this regard. The EPA estimates vary depending on driving conditions, but overall, the Santa Fe offers competitive fuel efficiency for its class. This makes it an economical choice for families and commuters who want to save money at the pump. The all-wheel-drive system does have a slight impact on fuel economy compared to front-wheel-drive models, but the added traction and stability are worth the trade-off for many drivers. Hyundai has incorporated various fuel-saving technologies into the Santa Fe, such as an automatic start/stop system, which helps to conserve fuel when idling at stoplights or in traffic.

Interior Features and Technology

Moving inside, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD boasts a well-designed interior with a focus on comfort and technology. The cabin is spacious, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long journeys more enjoyable. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a responsive touchscreen display and seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A range of other features, such as a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB ports, add to the overall convenience. The interior is designed to be both functional and stylish, creating a pleasant environment for both the driver and passengers.

Infotainment System: User-Friendly and Intuitive

The infotainment system in the 2022 Santa Fe SEL AWD is one of its standout features. The touchscreen display is clear and responsive, making it easy to navigate through the various menus and functions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allows you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The system also includes voice recognition, which allows you to control various functions with just your voice. Overall, the infotainment system is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to stay connected and entertained on the road. Hyundai has designed the system to be both visually appealing and easy to use, ensuring that drivers can keep their focus on the road.

Comfort and Convenience: Designed for Passengers

The 2022 Santa Fe SEL AWD is designed with passenger comfort and convenience in mind. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample cushioning for long drives. The rear seats also recline, allowing passengers to customize their seating position for added comfort. A dual-zone automatic climate control system ensures that both the driver and passengers can set their preferred temperature. Other convenient features, such as a power liftgate and keyless entry, add to the overall ease of use. The interior is designed to be a relaxing and enjoyable space, whether you're running errands around town or embarking on a long road trip.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for Hyundai, and the 2022 Santa Fe SEL AWD comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. These include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These features work together to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The Santa Fe has also received high safety ratings from leading safety organizations, giving buyers peace of mind. Hyundai's commitment to safety is evident in the design and engineering of the Santa Fe, making it a safe and reliable choice for families.

Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)

The 2022 Santa Fe SEL AWD is packed with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that enhance safety and convenience. Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking can help prevent accidents by detecting potential collisions and automatically applying the brakes if the driver doesn't react in time. Lane departure warning and lane keeping assist help to keep the vehicle within its lane, reducing the risk of accidents caused by unintentional lane drifting. Adaptive cruise control maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, making highway driving more relaxed and comfortable. These features are designed to assist the driver and enhance overall safety on the road. Hyundai has made these technologies standard on the SEL trim, demonstrating their commitment to providing advanced safety features to a wide range of buyers.

Safety Ratings and Awards

The 2022 Santa Fe has earned high safety ratings from leading safety organizations, such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings reflect the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The Santa Fe has also received awards for its safety features and overall performance, further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable choice. Hyundai's dedication to safety is evident in the design and engineering of the Santa Fe, making it a top contender in its class.

Conclusion

So, to wrap it up, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL AWD SUV is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a well-rounded and reliable SUV. It offers a blend of style, comfort, technology, and safety, making it a great value for the money. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands around town, or embarking on a family road trip, the Santa Fe is up to the task. With its all-wheel-drive system, it provides added confidence in various driving conditions, making it a practical choice for those living in areas with inclement weather. If you're in the market for a new SUV, be sure to give the Santa Fe SEL AWD a close look. You might just find that it's the perfect fit for your needs. Happy driving, folks!