2021 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2022 Genesis GV70

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe surprised many with its value proposition. Despite its affordable price tag, the Santa Fe offered a level of quality and refinement that seemed to defy its cost. The exterior design, with its new front end and unique trim-specific elements, gave each model a distinct character. Inside, the Santa Fe elevated its appeal with upscale materials and a sophisticated bridge-style center console. The Calligraphy trim, in particular, exuded luxury with its premium leather and panoramic sunroof, making it feel like a bargain for the price.

In contrast, the 2022 Genesis GV70 stood out with its unique styling, borrowing elements from other Genesis models while maintaining its distinct identity. The GV70's design combined SUV bulk with sleek, car-like elements, creating a rugged yet elegant appearance. The Sport Prestige model added even more character with its specific styling features, including 21-inch wheels and a dark chrome finish. Inside, the GV70's elliptical-themed interior, inspired by an airplane wing, offered a minimalistic yet luxurious feel, with high-quality materials and a futuristic rotary gear selector.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered three new powertrains, catering to different driving preferences. The SE and SEL trims came with a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, while the hybrid models combined a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with electric components for a total output of 226 hp. The Limited and Calligraphy trims featured a robust 281-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Santa Fe's driving modes, including Normal, Sport, and Smart, allowed for a tailored driving experience, with the turbocharged engine providing impressive performance and efficiency.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered two powerful engine options: a 2.5-liter turbo-four producing 300 horsepower and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 generating 375 horsepower. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV70's sporty features, such as launch control and Sport+ drive mode, emphasized its performance-oriented nature. However, the GV70's chassis and steering didn't quite match the sharpness of some competitors, making it more comfortable for highway cruising than spirited driving.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe provided ample interior space for a midsize SUV, with dual-zone climate control and stain-resistant fabric in lower trims. The Calligraphy trim elevated the interior with premium Nappa leather and a suede-like headliner. The Santa Fe offered comfortable seating with power adjustments and heating/ventilation options. The rear seat provided generous legroom and amenities like USB ports and sunshades. With 36.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 72.1 cubic feet, the Santa Fe accommodated family trips with ease.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered mid-pack interior space for its segment, with adequate legroom and good rear-seat visibility. The daring interior design compromised storage space, but Genesis included a covered storage cubby for phones. The Sport Prestige model featured heavily bolstered front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The GV70's cargo space measured 28.9 cubic feet with seats up and 56.9 cubic feet with seats folded, placing it in the middle of its class.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy was packed with technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, surround-view camera, and head-up display. The infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with the 8-inch screen, while the 10.25-inch screen provided wired connectivity and enhanced voice recognition. Blue Link connected services were free for three years, offering features like remote engine start and climate control. The Santa Fe also included Digital Key and Remote Smart Parking Assist for added convenience.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 boasted a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's tile-based layout and glass rotary controller were user-friendly. Higher trims offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 3D effect and a 12-inch head-up display. The GV70 included a digital key feature and a fingerprint scanner for starting the car. Genesis Connected Services, free for three years, provided remote camera activation and other advanced features.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe impressed with its comprehensive 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 Santa Fe earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS with LED projector headlights, showcasing its strong crashworthiness and front crash-prevention technology.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 came standard with a suite of safety features, including lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. It also featured eight airbags, including a front-center airbag. Optional features included Highway Driving Assist 2 with lane-change functionality. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the GV70's safety technology was comprehensive and advanced.