2025 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, although the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, and a turbocharged V8 engine, with the high-performance X5 M Competition variant. The xDrive50e M Sport Pro specification test vehicle came with Brooklyn Grey paint, 21-inch wheels, and all available equipment packages. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh, aligning it with other BMW models, and introduced the BMW Curved Display instrumentation and infotainment screen, modernizing the interior while retaining high-quality materials and construction.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, available in Canada in XRT, Luxury, and Ultimate Calligraphy trims, debuted its fifth generation in 2024, maintaining its chunky, boxy design with a long wheelbase, flat hood, and snub nose. The H-shaped LED headlamps and taillights fit Hyundai’s design aesthetic, though the rear lights were criticized for their placement. The Santa Fe offered vibrant colours like Terracotta Orange and Atlantis Blue, standing out from the typical greyscale SUV palette. Each trim had specific wheels, ranging from 18 to 21 inches, with the XRT trim featuring off-road enhancements. Inside, the Santa Fe accommodated seven passengers, except for the Ultimate Calligraphy trim, which had second-row captain’s chairs. The interior was well-finished, though some squeaks and rattles were noted. The inclusion of physical HVAC dials was appreciated, but the fan speed buttons were less user-friendly.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured new mild-hybrid six-cylinder and V8 engines, with a significant upgrade to its electric range and power output. It boasted a 19.2 kWh lithium-ion battery, offering 63 km of electric-only driving and a combined fuel efficiency of 10.6 L/100 km. The xDrive50e produced 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 96 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV was praised for its adaptive damping air suspension, excellent visibility, and quick steering. During testing, it achieved an average fuel economy of 6.0 L/100 km over 154 km, with impressive handling and braking performance.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, equipped with a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine producing 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, offered standard AWD and an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Santa Fe Hybrid, with a 1.6-litre engine and electric motor, delivered 231 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. The Santa Fe demonstrated stability in corners, though turbo lag and delayed downshifts were noted. The XRT trim featured 30-inch all-terrain tires and 21.2 cm of ground clearance, enhancing off-road capabilities. However, it was not suited for rugged terrain, performing best on graded dirt roads.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e provided seating for five and a cargo area of 937 litres, expandable to 2,016 litres with the rear seats folded. The split liftgate design offered a seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The X5 featured standard Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, sport seats, and optional 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation. Rear passengers enjoyed comfort with available upgrades, and the panoramic sunroof enhanced the view. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, unlike the larger BMW X7.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT trim included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a sunroof, and a 115-volt outlet. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim added heated second-row seats, ventilated front seats, and a premium audio system. The Santa Fe excelled in space, offering the most third-row legroom in its class. Cargo space ranged from 413 litres with all seats up to 2,267 litres with the second and third rows folded. The widened liftgate facilitated loading, and most trims could tow up to 1,587 kg, with the XRT capable of 2,040 kg.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Running BMW Operating System 8.5, it offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and over-the-air updates. The Harman Kardon sound system was optional, but the Intelligent Personal Assistant struggled with voice recognition tasks. The head-up display and augmented video navigation were praised, though the assistant's performance was disappointing.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe included a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital gauge cluster, with navigation available on higher trims. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB-C ports, and a wireless charging pad were featured. The digital key allowed phone or Apple Watch access, and the Ultimate Calligraphy trim offered a digital rearview mirror and head-up display. Bluelink app connectivity provided remote control and monitoring features, with over-the-air updates ensuring up-to-date software.

The 2024 BMW X5 offered the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, requiring deliberate activation. It performed well in specific traffic conditions but occasionally engaged brakes unexpectedly. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance were effective, though errant braking was noted. The X5 received high IIHS ratings but missed an award due to headlight ratings, and NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe included adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and more as standard. Highway Drive Assist combined adaptive cruise control and lane following assist, though it occasionally braked abruptly. The top trims featured blind spot avoidance and Blind View Monitor. NHTSA rated the Santa Fe four stars overall, while IIHS gave it "Good" ratings, except for headlights and LATCH categories.