The Santa Fe receives a visual freshening for 2021 that includes bolder front-end styling and improvements to its interior. Three new powertrains are offered: A 2.5-liter four-cylinder replaces the standard 2.4-liter unit, a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder replaces the optional turbocharged 2.0-liter, and a hybrid variant powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor joins the lineup. The Santa Fe gains a push-button shifter, several new optional driver-assistance features including a semi-autonomous driving mode, larger 8.0-inch and optional 10.3-inch infotainment displays, an optional 12.3-inch digital gauge display, and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Following in the larger Palisade's footsteps, the Santa Fe also gains a fancy Calligraphy trim level with quilted leather upholstery, a color head-up display, standard all-wheel drive, unique exterior accents, and more upscale interior embellishments.
The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe pushes efficiency with a new hybrid model.
PROS Larger standard and available touchscreens Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models More efficient, potent powertrains Revised transmission
CONS Expected price increase Calligraphy edges into Genesis turf Unknown standard features Unknown value
Pros Comfy, spacious, clever tech
Cons Not very interesting, not as cheap as it was, lack of choice RE engines
The 2019 Lexus NX 300 is an aggressively styled compact crossover SUV that features generous rear-seat room and on-road comfort. It's available in a standard trim and an F Sport version. The NX 300 and NX 300 F Sport are available with either front- or all-wheel drive.The Lexus NX 300 is unchanged for 2019.
PROS Generous backseat room Available power-folding rear seat Cabin is very quiet at highway speeds
CONS Limited cargo volume Remote Touch Interface can be distracting to use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available
The 2019 Lexus NX ranked #12 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Lexus NX has a score of 7.9 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 37 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Comfortable, spacious seats Above-average gas mileage
Cons Subpar cargo capacity Frustrating infotainment system Less athletic than rivals
Only a few changes mark the 2019 model year for the NX. Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa integration are now standard across the lineup. Lexus's Enform Remote app is now standard and can be used on smart watches; it includes Alexa and Google Assistant.
Pros Edgy styling, SUV-like driving position, stylish and comfortable interior.
Cons Irksome infotainment controls, performance doesn't match looks, hybrid performance is pokier still.
