2023 BMW X1 vs 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2023 BMW X1 presented itself as a refined evolution of its predecessor, maintaining its recognizable X1 identity while enhancing its robustness and sophistication. The larger, squarer kidney grille was less startling than that of the BMW 4 Series, signaling a readiness for more robust air intake. The X1's design updates included flush door handles, standard LED headlights and taillights, and a refreshed take on the classic L-shaped taillights. The color palette expanded significantly, offering 13 exterior color choices, including five new options. The X1 also introduced 20-inch wheels as an optional upgrade, wrapped in performance tires, enhancing its sporty appeal. Inside, the cabin exuded a premium feel with the BMW Curved Display dominating the dash, complemented by SensaTec 2.0 seat coverings and a sophisticated center armrest. The M Sport Package added sportier elements, while the Premium Package included a panoramic moonroof, enhancing the overall luxurious experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe maintained a more conservative exterior styling compared to some of Hyundai's recent designs. The five-passenger SUV continued with the same look as the 2022 model, available in five trim levels. Our test vehicle, a top-of-the-line Calligraphy AWD trim, featured Stormy Sea paint and a black-on-black interior. The Santa Fe's exterior was marked by its wide upper and lower grilles and thin LED headlights. Inside, the cabin offered a high-quality look, though it was dark and monotone. The Nappa leather seats in the Calligraphy trim were both comfortable and attractive, with standard heated and cooled front seats. The Santa Fe's interior was equipped with features like a head-up display and an extended panoramic sunroof, adding to its appeal. However, some minor shortcomings included the driver's seat positioning and the wide center console affecting leg and hip space.

The 2023 BMW X1 received a notable power boost with its 2.0-liter twin-turbo four-cylinder engine, now producing 241 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This was an increase of 13 horsepower and 37 lb-ft from the previous model, allowing the X1 to accelerate from zero to 60 in 6.2 seconds and tow up to 3,500 pounds. The new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission replaced the previous eight-speed automatic, providing a more engaged driving experience, especially with the M Sport Package's paddle shifters. The Adaptive M Suspension and damping systems were upgraded for better comfort and stability, with minimal body roll even during cornering. The X1's EPA fuel economy was rated at 25 mpg city, 34 highway, and 28 combined, with Premium fuel recommended.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe offered two engine options: a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged version delivering 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet. The turbocharged engine, available in the Limited and Calligraphy trims, provided a significant performance boost, with immediate acceleration and passing power, especially in Sport mode. The eight-speed "wet" dual-clutch automatic transmission worked smoothly, with no low-speed clunkiness. The Santa Fe's handling was smooth, with only slight body lean during cornering. The turbo version could tow up to 3,500 pounds, matching the X1's towing capacity. The Santa Fe's performance was complemented by a drive-mode selector offering four customizable modes: Comfort, Sport, Snow, and Smart.

The 2023 BMW X1 offered increased interior space with its larger dimensions, providing impressive headroom of 42.1 inches in the front and 39.3 inches in the rear. Front-row legroom measured 40.4 inches, while the back row offered 37 inches. Cargo space was generous, with 25.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 57.2 cubic feet with them folded down. Heated seats were an optional upgrade, and the wireless charging pad, part of the Premium Package, featured a clever clasp to secure the phone.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe, with its two-row configuration, provided ample rear-seat legroom of 41.7 inches and competitive cargo space of 36.4 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 72.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Santa Fe's seat comfort was a highlight, with features like an eight-way power driver's seat and heated front seats in the SEL and higher trims. The Limited trim added ventilated front seats and heated rear seats, while the Calligraphy trim included a head-up display and ambient lighting. The panoramic sunroof spanned both rows, enhancing the cabin's spacious feel. However, the driver's seat positioning and wide center console were minor drawbacks.

The 2023 BMW X1 featured the BMW Curved Display with iDrive 8, integrating a 10.7-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch driver information display. The system was responsive and easy to operate, with voice commands working well for climate control and the panoramic moonroof. The Live Cockpit Plus was standard, while the Premium Package added a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. The X1 included four USB-C ports and an optional 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in in-vehicle technology, offering a 4.2-inch color LCD display in lower trims and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster in the Limited and Calligraphy trims. The infotainment system featured an 8-inch display in the base trim, with higher trims offering a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The system's voice-recognition capabilities were mixed, with some commands requiring specific terminology. The Santa Fe's technology was customizable, offering a range of features for a mass-market brand.

The 2023 BMW X1 came standard with active blind-spot detection, front-collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and BMW’s Active Driving Assistant Professional. This suite included speed limit assist, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control with stop & go function. The X1 also offered a 360-degree camera system and Active Park Distance Control, with features like Back-Up Assistant and Parking Assistant Plus.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe was equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety-related ADAS, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Highway Driving Assist was standard on SEL and above, enhancing the driving experience. The Santa Fe received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS, with high ratings in crashworthiness tests.