I’ve become very fond of the heated seats and steering wheels in the recent all-wheel SUVs that have been coming my way. This past week I really enjoyed the Hyundai Santa Fe “Calligraphy” model. The Santa Fe is part of Hyundai’s bevy of western names for their all-wheel drive SUVs. The Calligraphy model is a luxury line of the Santa Fe family and the name seems to relate the exclusive alloy 20 inch artistic designed wheels.
The Santa Fe carried me through some stiff winds and some slick highways with nary a slip and minimal wind drift. The heated seats and steering wheel are so appreciated in cold weather.
The Santa Fe is powered by a 2.5L turbocharged engine and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The engine and clutch are both made in the USA and the vehicle assembled in Montgomery, Al.
The Hyundai is of Korean descent and joins an excellent line of cars, trucks and SUVs. This particular model is loaded with attractive features that are included in the suggested manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $45,255.
A lengthy list of safety features gives the vehicle an overall perfect five-star safety rating. They include lane following assist, blind spot alerts with special camera views of adjacent rear traffic lanes that is really helpful and should be in all vehicles. More safety features include side, front, curtain airbags, forward collision avoidance, and rear cross traffic alerts.
Comfortable “Nappa” leather covered seats in the spacious cabin. I appreciated the dials for tuning the radio channels and volume control. Rear seats are roomy and second row heated seats have a 60/40 split to expand seating and trunk space.
The exterior of the Santa Fe is sleek with “Shimmering Silver” paint and the interior is labeled “Blackjack.”
A very friendly SUV that has all the bells and whistles and drives with power and stability. It is well named after a historic western city and shares the quality and traditions very well.