2024 Kia EV9 vs 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe presented a more conservative exterior design compared to some of Hyundai's recent models. While it maintained an attractive SUV appearance, it lacked the standout looks seen in other Hyundai vehicles. This design was expected to change with the 2024 redesign. The 2023 model continued with the same look as the 2022 version, offering four trim levels in Canada, all with standard all-wheel drive. The U.S.-spec Ultimate Calligraphy trim, tested in Stormy Sea paint, featured a distinctive wide grille and thin LED headlights, but the overall design quickly normalized. Inside, the black interior with leather seats provided a high-quality feel, though it was somewhat dark and monotone. The Nappa leather seats were comfortable and attractive, with heated and cooled front seats standard in the Calligraphy trim.

The 2024 Kia EV9, on the other hand, introduced a bold new design for Kia EVs, while maintaining a distinctly Kia SUV appearance. Its exterior featured a blockier design reminiscent of digital clock numbers, with octagonal wheel arches and a sharply angled rear window. The lighting signature was a standout feature, with "Star Map" daytime running lights and LED headlights in unique patterns. The top Land trim offered a Digital Pattern Lighting Grille with additional light points. The EV9's design was a clear indication of innovation and modernity, setting it apart from traditional SUV designs.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe offered two engine options: a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine with 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque in the Preferred trim, and a turbocharged version with 281 hp and 311 lb-ft in the Urban and Ultimate Calligraphy trims. The turbocharged engine provided a significant performance boost, with immediate acceleration and no discernible turbo lag. The Santa Fe featured a drive-mode selector with four modes and push-button gears, adding a touch of sportiness. The turbocharged version could tow up to 1,587 kg with trailer brakes, while the non-turbo version could tow 907 kg.

The 2024 Kia EV9 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the Light trim's single motor RWD setup producing 215 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 370 km. The Wind model featured a larger battery for a range of 489 km, though horsepower dropped slightly to 201. The top Land trim offered AWD with dual motors, producing 379 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 451 km. The GT-Line sacrificed some range for performance, offering 435 km. The EV9's power delivery was smooth and refined, with good handling and adjustable regenerative braking. Charging capabilities were promising, with fast charging from 10 to 80 percent in 25 minutes.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe prioritized spaciousness with its two-row configuration, offering 1,060 mm of rear-seat legroom and 1,032 litres of cargo space behind the second row. Folding the second row increased storage to 2,041 litres. The Santa Fe featured comfortable seating, with standard heated front seats and dual-zone climate control. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim added luxury features like a hands-free smart liftgate, ventilated front seats, and a head-up display. However, the driver's seat position could be uncomfortable for those who prefer a higher view, and the wide centre console limited leg space.

The 2024 Kia EV9 stood out with its spacious third row, offering 1,004 mm of headroom and 783 to 813 mm of legroom. It could seat up to seven passengers, with second-row captain's chairs available in higher trims. Cargo space was competitive, with 572 litres behind the third row, expandable to 2,313 litres with only the front seats in place. The EV9 featured a high and flat load floor for easy luggage retrieval. The floating centre console provided storage space, though the shallow top-closing cubby was less practical. Second-row passengers in GT-Line trims enjoyed additional storage options.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in technology, offering a 4.2-inch display in lower trims and a 12.3-inch digital cluster in higher trims. All trims featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Harman Kardon audio system in the Ultimate Calligraphy trim. The infotainment system was customizable, though voice recognition had mixed results, particularly in noisy environments.

The 2024 Kia EV9 took technology to the next level with a three-screen curved display, including a 12.3-inch driver information display, a 5-inch Climate Display, and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a Meridian audio system in higher trims. The EV9's connectedness was a highlight, with over-the-air updates and the Kia Connect store offering additional features and upgrades. This future-proofing approach allowed for ongoing customization and enhancements.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim added Highway Driving Assist. The Santa Fe received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS, with high marks in crashworthiness tests.

The 2024 Kia EV9 offered a robust set of standard ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot collision avoidance, and forward collision avoidance. The Blind-spot View Monitor and reverse parking collision avoidance were available in higher trims. While the EV9 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, it received the highest rating from Euro NCAP.