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 300h returns unchanged.We suggest adding the Comfort package for its heated and ventilated front seats and blind-spot monitoring. Because you can't get Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone integration on the NX, adding the Navigation package may also be a wise choice.
Pros Great fuel economy for a luxury crossover Back seat has enough room for adults Very quiet cabin at highway speeds
Cons Limited cargo capacity Infotainment interface can be distracting to use
The 2019 Lexus NX remains a boldly styled, comfortable compact luxury crossover with solid standard features.
Pros Comfortable front seats Thrifty hybrid Now-familiar styling F Sport handling and seats CarPlay, finally
Cons Polarizing design Sub-par gas mileage on NX 300 Intrusive road noise Sluggish infotainment
The 2019 Lexus NX Hybrid ranked #10 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Lexus NX Hybrid has a score of 8.1 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 28 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Supportive, roomy seats Great fuel economy Excellent predicted reliability rating
Cons Underpowered engine Distracting, awkward infotainment controls Subpar cargo space
