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Tesla y vs. hyundai santa fe: the ultimate comparison for safety, technology, and value

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to...

What To Know

  • The Hyundai Santa Fe, on the other hand, has a fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
  • The Santa Fe is a more traditional SUV that offers a spacious interior, good fuel economy, and a proven track record of reliability.
  • The Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD has a range of up to 326 miles, while the Hyundai Santa Fe has a fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

The automotive landscape is undergoing a transformative shift as electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity. Among the most sought-after EVs is the Tesla Model Y, while the Hyundai Santa Fe remains a formidable contender in the combustion engine SUV segment. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between these two automotive powerhouses to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Efficiency

Acceleration and Power: The Tesla Model Y outperforms the Hyundai Santa Fe in terms of acceleration. The Model Y Long Range AWD boasts a 0-60 mph time of 4.8 seconds, while the Santa Fe Limited 2.5T AWD takes 7.8 seconds. The Model Y also offers more power, with 384 horsepower compared to the Santa Fe’s 281 horsepower.

Range and Fuel Economy: As an EV, the Tesla Model Y has an impressive range of up to 326 miles on a single charge. The Hyundai Santa Fe, on the other hand, has a fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. While the Santa Fe requires regular gas fill-ups, the Model Y can be recharged at home or at public charging stations.

Interior and Comfort

Space and Seating: The Model Y and Santa Fe offer similar interior space. Both vehicles have seating for up to seven passengers, with the Santa Fe providing slightly more legroom in the third row. However, the Model Y’s panoramic glass roof creates a more airy and spacious feel.

Technology and Features: The Tesla Model Y excels in technology with its massive 15-inch touchscreen, advanced Autopilot driver assistance system, and premium sound system. The Hyundai Santa Fe also offers a range of tech features, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a Bose premium audio system.

Safety and Reliability

Safety Ratings: Both the Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Santa Fe have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Model Y received a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, while the Santa Fe received a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS.

Reliability: Tesla and Hyundai have different reputations for reliability. Tesla has faced some issues with build quality and software glitches in the past, while Hyundai is generally considered more reliable. J.D. Power’s 2022 Vehicle Dependability Study ranked Hyundai 4th overall, while Tesla ranked 23rd.

Price and Value

Starting Price: The Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD has a starting price of $54,990, while the Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 2.5T AWD starts at $37,950. The Model Y is significantly more expensive than the Santa Fe, but it also offers more performance, technology, and a longer range.

Value Proposition: The value proposition of each vehicle depends on individual preferences and priorities. The Tesla Model Y offers superior performance, efficiency, and technology, but it comes at a higher price. The Hyundai Santa Fe provides a more affordable option with a spacious interior, good fuel economy, and a solid safety record.

Final Thoughts

The Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Santa Fe are two very different vehicles that appeal to different audiences. The Model Y is a high-tech, high-performance EV that offers a futuristic driving experience. The Santa Fe is a more traditional SUV that offers a spacious interior, good fuel economy, and a proven track record of reliability.

Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and preferences. If you prioritize performance, efficiency, and technology, the Tesla Model Y is the clear winner. If you value affordability, space, and reliability, the Hyundai Santa Fe is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which vehicle has a longer range?
A: The Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD has a range of up to 326 miles, while the Hyundai Santa Fe has a fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which vehicle is faster?
A: The Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds, while the Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 2.5T AWD takes 7.8 seconds.

Q: Which vehicle is more spacious?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe offers slightly more legroom in the third row, but both vehicles have seating for up to seven passengers.

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Mike Sullivan

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to guides and industry news updates. When he's not writing about Ford, you can find Mike cheering on his favorite NFL team at the local pub on game days.
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