A plug-in hybrid powertrain joins the Santa Fe lineup for 2022. This 260-hp option also delivers up to 31 miles of electric-only driving per charge, but is unfortunately limited in its availability. Unless you live in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, or Vermont, you may have to wait for the Santa Fe PHEV to make its nationwide debut. In the meantime, you could select the new XRT trim level, which is based on the nonhybrid Santa Fe. The XRT adds a more rugged exterior appearance by adding side steps, skid plates, and a unique wheel design.
Pros Value-oriented price, comfortable ride, well-outfitted interior.
Cons Not as fuel efficient has some rivals, tall riders may feel pinched in the rear seat, strictly a two-row SUV.
The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe's #5 ranking is based on its score within the Midsize SUVs category. It is the winner of our 2022 Best 2-Row SUV for the Money award and a finalist for our 2022 Best 2-Row SUV for Families award. Currently the Hyundai Santa Fe has a score of 8.3 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 37 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Spacious, premium interior Loads of standard tech and safety features Great gas mileage Low starting price for class
Cons Underwhelming base engine Firm ride
The 2021 Jeep Renegade is the small off-road SUV that doesn’t know how to quit.
Pros Good looks Capable turbo-4 Standard active safety features Good touchscreen
Cons Pricey top trims Cramped rear Poor safety scores Bad base powertrain
For 2021, the Renegade receives a slew of newly standard driver assists and additional trim levels. All models now have blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and more. The lineup also adds an 80th Anniversary Edition and an Islander Edition. The former rolls on Granite Crystal 19-inch wheels, wears trim-specific badging, and has distinct interior appointments.
Pros Adorable-meets-adventurous styling, most models have a relaxing ride, Trailhawk can tackle serious off-road challenges.
Cons Acceleration requires patience, no fuel-efficient options, lower trims cost more than similar rivals.
The 2021 Jeep Renegade's #12 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the Jeep Renegade has a score of 6.9 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 35 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
PROS Solid off-road capability Composed ride and handling Easy-to-use infotainment system
CONS Rock-bottom predicted reliability rating Sluggish acceleration Subpar fuel economy ratings
