2022 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2022 Subaru Forester

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT trim did not win hearts with its new treatment. Though the idea of a more rugged look might appeal to some, the execution left much to be desired. Without the suspension lift and more aggressive tires, the XRT model mostly presented visual embellishments that didn't enhance off-road capability. The addition of side steps, while useful for roof rack access, complicated entry and exit and reduced off-road breakover angle. Consequently, the XRT trim felt more like an aesthetic exercise rather than a functional upgrade.

The XRT was one of five gasoline trims available for the 2022 Santa Fe, priced between the SE and SEL models and the higher Limited and Calligraphy trims. The test vehicle, finished in Portofino Gray with a black cloth interior, lacked any significant color contrast, evoking a monochromatic, grayscale effect. Despite the low-key exterior, the interior patterns and finishes offered a comfortable environment that seemed thoughtful and high-quality for its price point of $35,940, inclusive of AWD and additional carpeted floor mats.

Conversely, the 2022 Subaru Forester aimed to emphasize functionality over flashy aesthetics. Among its six trims—Base, Premium, Sport, Wilderness, Limited, and Touring—the new Wilderness trim tried to inject a rugged persona into the lineup. Priced at $33,945, the test vehicle donned a white exterior, dark gray water-repellent interior, and option packages including navigation, Harman Kardon sound system, and power rear liftgate, raising the total cost to $36,014.

The Wilderness trim’s look, however, was polarizing. The anti-glare matte-black hood decal, massive protective cladding, and 9.2 inches of ground clearance gave it a raccoon-like appearance. Despite its divide in style opinions, the interior stayed true to Subaru's utilitarian roots with functional cabin design and user-friendly StarTex simulated leather that proved useful in protecting against grit, grime, and moisture.

Performance-wise, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT was fitted with a basic 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. This engine, combined with the Santa Fe’s nearly two-ton curb weight, was sufficient for regular freeway driving but unremarkable in terms of acceleration and hill-climbing power. The eight-speed automatic transmission performed adequately, using pushbutton controls for gear changes and offering modes like Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow to suit driving preferences. The AWD system could be locked for better low-speed traction, but the XRT’s off-road capability remained untested.

Fuel efficiency rated at an EPA-estimated 24 mpg, with real-world testing reflecting slightly lower, at 22.3 mpg. Though the Santa Fe XRT managed highway tranquility and commendable suspension comfort, its standard engine lagged behind when more power was needed. The premium trims, such as Limited and Calligraphy, offered a more potent 281-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine which shared the same fuel economy rating, making them more enticing options.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Forester stuck with its established 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with all-wheel drive. The Wilderness model included enhancements like a 25% increase in initial torque supply and upgraded suspension, boosting its towing capacity to 3,000 pounds. Interior testing averaged 25.9 mpg close to the EPA’s 26 mpg combined rating.

Though the Forester didn’t excel in exhilarating power, the CVT's eight programmed ratios and Subaru’s SI-Drive system lent it acceptable energy levels in most conditions. Off-road, the Wilderness trim showcased capability with features such as the dual-function X-Mode system adjusting driving dynamics based on terrain, re-tuned suspension increasing ground clearance, and Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires handling rough landscapes with ease.

Examining the interior space of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT revealed thoughtful design prioritizing comfort and practicality. The standard dual-zone climate control, stain-resistant fabric, and power-adjustable driver’s seat contributed to a pleasant ride. Rear passengers enjoyed ample legroom, rear air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports. However, the lack of a height-adjustable front passenger seat was a significant oversight affecting passenger comfort.

In terms of cargo, the Santa Fe offered 36.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expandable to 72.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down. An innovative feature was Hyundai's Smart Tailgate, which automatically opened when sensing the key fob nearby but proved potentially cumbersome in unpredictable circumstances.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued to emphasize functionality. Easy to enter and exit due to its high hip points, the Forester excelled in practicality with its water-resistant StarTex upholstery, standard all-weather floor mats, and cargo management solutions. The redesigned roof rails supported up to an 800-pound static load, accommodating roof tents.

The Forester offered a slightly smaller cargo volume at 28.9 cubic feet, reduced to 26.9 cubic feet if equipped with a panoramic sunroof. With rear seats folded, it provided up to 74.2 cubic feet of space. Additional cargo hooks and full-size spare tire added utilitarian appeal, complementing the vehicle’s focus on usability for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tech-wise, the Hyundai Santa Fe XRT offered a user-friendly experience with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluelink services with a complimentary three-year subscription, and Hyundai’s digital key technology for Android users. The simplicity and logical interface of the infotainment system, combined with the vehicle's Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, made it highly functional for everyday use.

On the other hand, the Subaru Forester came with technology tailored to convenience and outdoor functionality. Starting with a 6.5-inch touchscreen on the Base trim, models from Wilderness upwards enjoyed an 8-inch display with navigation and a Harman Kardon sound system. The Forester Wilderness also featured a handy 180-degree forward-view camera and a unique PIN Code Access system for outdoor activities. However, the voice recognition system was inconsistent, highlighting room for improvement.

Safety features in the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT were comprehensive. The Hyundai SmartSense suite included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Even without the Highway Driving Assist on the XRT, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centering worked flawlessly. Unique features like Safe Exit Assist and ultrasonic rear occupant alerts enhanced safety protocols, while Bluelink’s safety services provided additional security. The Santa Fe earned top safety ratings, including an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and five-star NHTSA ratings.

Subaru’s EyeSight 4.0 system in the 2022 Forester brought advancements with improved field of vision and new features like Automatic Emergency Steering. Standard safety technologies included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Touring trims added DriverFocus, a facial recognition technology monitoring driver drowsiness. The Forester’s safety evaluations remained stellar, with a five-star NHTSA rating and likely retention of the Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS.