The Hyundai Santa Fe Trim Levels

The Hyundai Santa Fe Trim Levels

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a versatile and stylish SUV designed to meet a wide variety of needs. It's a six- or seven-passenger SUV, depending on configuration, and it's available in five main trim levels.

Choosing the right trim level is essential to getting the features and performance that fit your lifestyle and budget. Whether you’re a family looking for advanced safety features, a tech lover seeking premium infotainment, or an adventurer needing rugged capability, there’s a Santa Fe trim for you.

Overview of the Hyundai Santa Fe

The Hyundai Santa Fe has earned its spot as one of the most well-rounded SUVs on the market. It’s built to handle the daily grind while delivering enough power and features to make every drive feel special. With sharp styling, advanced technology, and a focus on safety, the Santa Fe doesn’t just get you from point A to point B—it does it with confidence and comfort.

This SUV is known for its versatility. Need plenty of space for road trips or family outings? Check. Want advanced driver-assist features to keep you safe? It’s got those too. Plus, with a solid mix of performance options, the Santa Fe is just as comfortable cruising the highway as it is navigating city streets.

It’s also backed by Hyundai’s incredible warranty program, giving you peace of mind for years to come. Simply put, the Santa Fe is ready to tackle whatever life throws your way—and it looks good doing it.

Now, let’s get into what makes each trim level stand out.

The Hyundai Santa Fe Trim Levels

The Hyundai Santa Fe lineup is packed with options to suit every kind of driver. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly SUV with all the essentials or a luxurious ride that’s fully loaded with tech, there’s a trim for you. Let’s break down each trim level and what it brings to the table so you can decide which one fits your needs.

1. SE (Base Model)

The Santa Fe SE trim proves that entry-level doesn’t mean basic. It offers an impressive mix of performance, tech, and safety features designed to get you started without overloading your budget.

Performance: The SE is powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine delivering 191 horsepower. It’s smooth, efficient, and perfect for daily drives. With 18-inch alloy wheels, you can also choose between front-wheel drive (FWD) or optional all-wheel drive (AWD) for added control on different terrains.

Interior and Tech: Inside, you’ll find cloth seats and an 8-inch touchscreen that integrates wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can stay connected without the hassle of cords. A 6-speaker audio system provides solid sound for your music, podcasts, or calls.

Safety: Hyundai doesn’t cut corners on safety, even at the base level. The SE comes with the SmartSense suite, including features like Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Driver Attention Warning.

Who It’s For: The SE is ideal for first-time buyers, budget-conscious families, or anyone who wants reliable transportation without paying for extras they don’t need.

2. SEL (Step Up in Comfort)

The Santa Fe SEL trim builds on the SE with added convenience and comfort features that make it an excellent mid-level choice.

Interior and Tech: Step into the SEL, and you’ll notice upgrades like heated front seats and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that gives the interior a more refined look and feel. Dual-zone climate control ensures everyone stays comfortable, no matter the weather.

Performance: It offers the same reliable 2.5L engine as the SE, but with AWD available as an upgrade for those needing a little more traction.

Safety: The SEL adds Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, two features that make navigating busy streets and parking lots much safer.

Who It’s For: The SEL is a great pick for families, commuters, or anyone who values comfort and added safety at a reasonable price point.

3. XRT (The Adventurer)

If you’re someone who loves the outdoors or wants an SUV with rugged styling, the Santa Fe XRT trim is calling your name.

Exterior Features: The XRT stands out with its bold exterior upgrades, including unique bumpers, skid plates, and roof rack crossbars. The matte black grille and trim accents give it a tough, no-nonsense look.

Interior and Performance: Inside, the XRT is fitted with leatherette seats and durable materials to match its adventurous spirit. AWD is available, making this trim ready for light off-roading or tackling challenging weather conditions.

Who It’s For: The XRT is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, weekend warriors, or anyone who wants their SUV to have a bold and rugged edge.

4. Limited (Luxury Meets Practicality)

For those looking for premium features without stepping into full-on luxury territory, the Santa Fe Limited trim delivers the best of both worlds.

Interior and Tech: The Limited trim adds leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, and ventilated front seats for those hot summer days. It also comes with a hands-free smart liftgate, making loading up your gear effortless.

Performance: A turbocharged 2.5L engine is available, giving you 281 horsepower and a significant boost in towing capacity—perfect for hauling trailers or small boats.

Tech: You’ll also enjoy advanced tech like a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation and a Harman Kardon premium audio system.

Who It’s For: The Limited trim is for drivers who want a little more luxury and performance but still need a practical, family-friendly SUV.

5. Calligraphy (Top of the Line)

The Calligraphy trim is the pinnacle of the Santa Fe lineup. It’s fully loaded with premium materials, cutting-edge tech, and exclusive design elements that elevate it into luxury territory.

Interior Features: The interior is all about sophistication, featuring quilted Nappa leather seats, ambient interior lighting, and a suede headliner. Heated and ventilated seats, along with a heated steering wheel, ensure you’re comfortable year-round.

Exterior Style: The Calligraphy trim boasts unique 21-inch alloy wheels and special exterior trim that make it unmistakably top-tier.

Performance: The turbocharged 2.5L engine comes standard, as does AWD, making it ready for any road or weather conditions.

Advanced Tech: The Calligraphy includes Hyundai’s Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, and Smart Parking Assist, which can help park the SUV for you.

Who It’s For: The Calligraphy is for those who want the ultimate SUV experience—luxury, technology, and performance combined into one standout package.

Which Hyundai Santa Fe Trim Fits Your Lifestyle?

With five unique trims to choose from, the Hyundai Santa Fe offers plenty of options to suit different lifestyles, priorities, and budgets. Let’s break it down to help you figure out which trim is the best match for how you drive, where you go, and what features matter most to you.

For Families Prioritizing Safety and Space: The SEL or Limited

If your top priority is keeping your family safe and comfortable, the SEL and Limited trims are hard to beat.

Why the SEL? It offers standard features like cruise control, heated front seats, a spacious cabin with dual-zone climate control, and advanced safety features like Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance. Plus, it’s budget-friendly.

Why the Limited? If you’re looking for more luxury and convenience, the Limited adds leather seating, ventilated seats (perfect for hot climates), and a hands-free smart liftgate for easy loading.

Both trims provide plenty of room for passengers and cargo, thanks to the folding rear seats.

For Adventurers and Outdoor Enthusiasts: The XRT

Love hitting the trails or spending weekends exploring the outdoors? The XRT trim was made for you.

The rugged exterior design, with skid plates and roof rack crossbars, isn’t just for looks—it’s functional for carrying gear like bikes, kayaks, or camping supplies.

With optional AWD, the XRT gives you the traction you need for off-road trails or challenging weather conditions.

Inside, the leatherette seating is durable and easy to clean, perfect for muddy boots or sandy gear.

If adventure calls, the XRT is your partner for tackling the journey ahead.

For Tech Enthusiasts and Premium Seekers: The Limited or Calligraphy

If cutting-edge tech, premium materials, and advanced features are at the top of your wish list, the Limited and Calligraphy trims are worth your attention.

The Limited Trim offers the perfect balance of tech and practicality, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, and Harman Kardon premium audio. You’ll also enjoy extras like a panoramic sunroof and ventilated seats.

The Calligraphy Trim takes it a step further with high-end touches like quilted Nappa leather seats, a head-up display, and Smart Parking Assist. It’s the ultimate in luxury and convenience.

For drivers who want their SUV to be as high-tech and comfortable as it is capable, these trims deliver in spades.

For Budget-Conscious Buyers: The SE

If you’re looking for the essentials without spending more than necessary, the SE trim is the way to go.

You’ll still get solid performance from the 2.5L engine and features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to keep you connected.

Hyundai doesn’t skimp on safety, even at the base level, so you’ll enjoy SmartSense features like Lane Keeping Assist and Driver Attention Warning.

It’s a great option for first-time SUV buyers or anyone who values simplicity and reliability.

For Drivers Who Need Power and Towing: The Limited or Calligraphy

Planning to tow a small boat, trailer, or camper? The turbocharged 2.5L engine offered in the Limited and Calligraphy trims is the perfect fit.

  • With 281 horsepower and AWD as an option (or standard on the Calligraphy), you’ll have the muscle and grip you need to handle towing and tough driving conditions.

  • These trims also include larger touchscreens, navigation, and premium materials to ensure you’re riding in style when you’re not towing.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Trim Levels (with Pricing)

SE: Starting MSRP: $34,200 | Avg Price Paid: $33,027

SEL: Starting MSRP: $36,700 | Avg Price Paid: $35,244

XRT: Starting MSRP: $40,850 | Avg Price Paid: $39,685

Limited: Starting MSRP: $43,600 | Avg Price Paid: $42,142

Calligraphy: Starting MSRP: $46,750 | Avg Price Paid: $45,510

Still Not Sure? Test Drive the Hyundai Santa Fe in Waco

While these recommendations are a great starting point, nothing beats getting in the driver’s seat to see which trim feels like home. Each trim offers unique strengths, but the best choice comes down to your lifestyle and what you value most in an SUV.

Visit Waco Hyundai to explore our lineup of new and used Hyundai Santa Fe models, including the 2025 versions. Whether you’re looking for a specific trim, need expert advice, or want to schedule a test drive, our team is here to help you find your perfect SUV. Stop by today!