2021 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille, emphasizing width. The body had crisp character lines, and the rear showcased bold taillights, giving it a classy and modern appearance. Inside, the Q5 was equally sophisticated, with a clean and uncluttered design. The materials used were authentic, with real wood and metal, and the 10.1-inch touchscreen was strategically placed for easy access. The second row was well-appointed with standard leather seating, offering a luxurious experience.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a surprising value for its price. It featured a redesigned front end with new running lights, grille, and bumper, giving each trim a unique character. Inside, the Santa Fe moved upmarket with new colors, patterns, and textures, especially in the Calligraphy trim, which boasted premium Nappa leather and a suede-like headliner. The interior exuded quality, with a solid fit and finish, and the panoramic sunroof added to its luxurious feel. However, the exterior design was somewhat polarizing, with some asymmetry in the body parts that required getting used to.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with an additional 114 horsepower from its 14.1-kWh battery, resulting in a total output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup provided impressive acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds, and offered a fuel economy of 65 MPGe combined. The Q5 PHEV featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with Quattro all-wheel drive, allowing for various driving modes, including electric-only and hybrid. The handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered three new powertrains, including a 191-hp 2.5-liter engine for SE and SEL trims, and a 226-hp hybrid system. The Limited and Calligraphy trims featured a 281-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Santa Fe provided a smooth and refined driving experience, with improved body control and athletic handling. The turbocharged engine was fuel-efficient, with a combined rating of 24 mpg, and offered a pleasant ride with impressive isolation from road noise.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV offered a well-packaged interior with 25.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 53.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The second row provided ample legroom and headroom, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and ventilation options. The interior design was uncluttered, with smartly laid-out controls and storage options.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe provided a spacious interior without a third-row seat, offering dual-zone climate control and stain-resistant fabric or leather seating. The Calligraphy trim elevated the interior with premium materials and features like heated and ventilated seats. The rear seat was particularly comfortable, with ample legroom and features like air-conditioning vents and USB ports. The cargo space was generous, with 36.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 72.1 cubic feet with them folded, making it suitable for family trips.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured a 10.1-inch MMI touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit Plus instrument cluster, offering a customizable and futuristic experience. The Prestige Package included navigation and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The Q5 also had an Integrated Toll Module and wireless Apple CarPlay, enhancing convenience and connectivity.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy was equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, surround-view camera, and an 8.5-inch head-up display. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with the basic 8-inch screen, while the 10.25-inch screen provided upgraded voice recognition and Blue Link services. The Harman Kardon audio system and features like Digital Key and Remote Smart Parking Assist added to its technological appeal.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the gasoline model received top ratings except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded it five stars. Safety features included six airbags, Audi Pre Sense, and various driver-assistance options like adaptive cruise control and a top-view camera system.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered advanced safety features, including forward-collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Safe Exit Assist, and a rear-occupant alert system. The Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist added to its safety credentials. The IIHS named it a "Top Safety Pick" with LED projector headlights, and it received high ratings for crashworthiness.