2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe presented a distinct departure from its predecessors, embracing a boxy design that contrasted sharply with the sleek, futuristic aesthetics of the Ioniq models. This new approach was not only about style but also functionality, as Hyundai's design chief, SangYup Lee, emphasized the practicality of a box shape for storage. Despite its unconventional look, the Santa Fe managed to turn heads with its upscale appearance and sophisticated color palette, including matte options and anodized-finish badging. Inside, the Santa Fe offered a premium experience, with the XRT and Calligraphy trims showcasing a blend of soft and luxurious materials, although some hard surfaces were present.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid maintained a more traditional appearance, with its RX 500h Black Line Special Edition featuring a unique Incognito paint job and orange brake calipers. Despite these touches, the RX's design was considered unremarkable, with its large grille and rear haunches being the most notable features. The RX lineup offered three hybrid models, each with distinct power and efficiency levels, but the overall aesthetic remained consistent. Inside, the RX provided a contemporary and comfortable environment, though some ergonomic choices, like the loud climate system fan and snug front seats, detracted from the luxury experience.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a base 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive optional, except for the XRT trim, which included AWD. The Santa Fe also featured various driving modes, including Sport and Snow, with the XRT adding off-road capabilities. Fuel economy varied, with the base FWD achieving 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, while the hybrid version offered 36 mpg combined. The Santa Fe excelled in towing capacity, especially the XRT model, which could tow up to 4,500 pounds.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three models: the RX 350h with 246 hp, the RX 450h+ PHEV with 304 hp, and the RX 500h with 366 hp. The RX 500h stood out with its turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension, providing quick acceleration but lower fuel efficiency at 20.9 mpg. The RX 500h also featured advanced AWD and performance brakes, but its adaptive damping suspension and steering system were less communicative, making it less rewarding to drive. Despite its power, the RX 500h's drivetrain occasionally hesitated, affecting the overall driving experience.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe's design focused on maximizing cargo space, with a longer wheelbase and body compared to its predecessor. The spacious cargo area, inspired by the "chabak" concept, was ideal for camping and tailgating. While the third row was snug, the first and second rows offered ample space and comfort, with options for reclining captain's chairs. The Santa Fe provided 14.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 79.6 cubic feet with seats folded. Features like a UV sanitization compartment and robust upholstery added to its practicality.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid prioritized occupant comfort and practical cargo space, with the RX 500h F Sport Performance offering heated and ventilated seats. However, the front seats' bolstering made them less comfortable over long drives. The RX provided 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 46.2 cubic feet, but the cargo cover could be cumbersome. Interior storage was practical, though some compartments lacked lining, leading to potential noise issues. Overall, the RX focused on comfort and convenience, with features like a panoramic sunroof and power-reclining rear seats.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a curved panoramic display, enhancing the cabin's luxurious feel. The infotainment system was intuitive, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across trims. Higher trims included a 12-speaker Bose stereo, dynamic voice recognition, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Hyundai's BlueLink system allowed for keyless access, and Hyundai Pay offered secure payment options. The Santa Fe also introduced a biometric fingerprint scanner for added security.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display. While the infotainment system was advanced, the steering wheel controls were distracting. The RX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with streaming services and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The optional Mark Levinson audio system provided excellent sound quality, but some features, like the digital key and hands-free liftgate, were optional rather than standard.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision-avoidance assist, and blind-spot monitors. Higher trims added features like a 360-degree camera system and remote automatic parking. The Santa Fe also introduced driver monitoring, enhancing safety by tracking alertness and hand placement on the wheel.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid included Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The RX also featured Predictive Driving Assist and a blind-spot monitoring system. While the RX received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA, it earned a Poor rating from IIHS in certain tests. The optional Convenience Package added a surround-view camera, enhancing safety during our test.