Eagle’s Canyon Raceway – Where the Real SUVs Come to Play
The Texas Truck Rodeo at Eagle’s Canyon Raceway sets the stage for a thrilling showcase of off-road prowess, where the industry’s top trucks and SUVs flex their muscles on rough terrains. But the real story for Hyundai this year isn’t all about tackling extreme off-road courses; it’s about how the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT—a fresh new take on the brand’s beloved SUV—performs on the kind of back roads many drivers are likely to encounter. In a landscape where rugged styling and versatility are in high demand, the Santa Fe XRT boldly steps in to offer both style and substance.
Back Roads, Not Backwoods: A New Take on Adventure Driving
When Hyundai introduced the all-new fifth-generation Santa Fe, the design instantly made waves with its boxy, adventure-ready look. The XRT trim builds upon this with a 1.3-inch ground clearance boost and all-terrain tires that make it stand out as a more off-road-capable option. And while the XRT wasn’t put through the paces of a grueling off-road course at the Texas Truck Rodeo, it shined on the winding back roads, delivering a confident and controlled drive that highlighted its comfort, handling, and adaptability.
The back roads revealed how Hyundai’s careful tuning of the suspension and steering pays off, making the Santa Fe XRT feel at ease on uneven pavement and twists and turns. The combination of raised suspension and all-terrain tires did not compromise ride quality; instead, the drive felt smooth and planted, striking an impressive balance between ruggedness and everyday usability. In fact, its confident handling on those roads showcased the XRT’s ability to handle more than just the daily commute.
Boxy by Nature: The XRT’s Design That Begs for the Outdoors
The XRT model takes the already bold design of the Santa Fe and elevates it with features that cater to an active lifestyle. Painted in Rockwood Green, the XRT feels like a throwback to the classic adventure SUVs of the past—think Land Rover Defender or Mercedes G-Wagon—but with a distinctly modern, Korean twist. The raised ground clearance, paired with the rugged all-terrain tires mounted on unique 18-inch wheels, gives the XRT a purposeful stance that’s ready for whatever the road throws at it.
Hyundai’s designers have gone a step further with the “H” theme seen throughout the Santa Fe XRT. The LED daytime running lights sport a distinctive “H” design, and there’s even another subtle “H” pattern integrated into the grille and front fascia. The overall effect is a unique visual signature that sets the XRT apart from its competitors while aligning perfectly with its boxy, adventure-driven aesthetics. And that skid plate underneath? It’s not just for looks—it’s there to provide some real protection if the going gets tough.
Under the Hood: The Santa Fe XRT’s Performance
At the heart of the Santa Fe XRT lies a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, part of Hyundai’s Smartstream family. Producing 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, it delivers a solid punch and responsive acceleration, whether cruising on the highway or navigating tighter back roads. Paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the XRT shifts smoothly, giving a satisfying drive feel.
The XRT comes exclusively with Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel-drive system—standard on this trim—which is an $1,800 option on other Santa Fe models. This AWD setup is capable enough to provide confidence on unpaved roads, dirt trails, and those unexpected adventures where traction can become a concern. While fuel economy drops slightly due to the all-terrain tires and raised suspension, the XRT still offers respectable numbers: 19 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and a combined 22 mpg on regular gas.
Smooth and Capable: XRT’s Back-Road Performance
While the XRT may look like a hardcore off-roader, it’s on the back roads where it truly shines. The steering is precise, offering good feedback without feeling overly heavy, which is essential when navigating winding roads. Thanks to the lifted suspension, bumps and imperfections in the pavement are absorbed well, making for a smooth, comfortable drive even on more rugged surfaces.
The Continental Terra Terrain Contact all-terrain tires (245/60R18) are the first factory-equipped off-road tires on a Hyundai model, contributing to the XRT’s ability to maintain grip and composure in different conditions. However, these tires are just as at home on paved roads, providing stability and reducing road noise, which keeps the drive comfortable and pleasant for both the driver and passengers.
Rugged Styling: How the XRT Stands Out in the Crowd
Every aspect of the XRT’s styling emphasizes adventure without sacrificing refinement. The Rockwood Green exterior, for instance, stands out against the typical grayscale palette found on most SUVs. And while orange and red colors are also available, there’s something about the earthy green that complements the rugged character of the XRT.
The vehicle’s boxy lines and upright rear design are intentional—Hyundai’s designers focused on giving the XRT a strong presence on the road. Unlike the glossy black accents found on other trims, the XRT uses unpainted plastic fender cladding and side trim, further reinforcing its rugged demeanor. Roof rails and the integrated assist handle in the C-pillar, designed for roof access, provide practical features for outdoor enthusiasts who need to carry extra gear.
Interior Tech & Comfort: An Adventurer’s Sanctuary
Inside the XRT, Hyundai has blended comfort with durability and tech-forward features. The cabin is upholstered in black “H-tex,” a faux leather material that feels close to the real thing and is expected to be more durable than leather found in the higher Limited and Calligraphy trims. The seats are embossed with the XRT logo and offer 10-way power adjustment for the driver and 8-way for the passenger. While the seats are heated, ventilated seats are not an option on the XRT, reserving that luxury for higher trims.
Tech-wise, the XRT is equipped with dual 12.3-inch displays that are clear, intuitive, and responsive, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A well-designed wireless charging pad sits in the center console, allowing for easy access and cooling while charging. However, unlike the Limited and Calligraphy trims, the XRT comes with a 4.2-inch helper screen for the instrument cluster, offering a mix of analog and digital display.
Storage is plentiful, with clever compartments like the dual-opening center console, hidden storage spaces, and plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. Though the XRT doesn’t offer all the bells and whistles of the top-tier trims, its focus on practicality and durability makes it a compelling choice for those who plan on taking their SUV on more than just a grocery run.
Practicality Meets Capability: A Well-Rounded Family Adventurer
While the Santa Fe XRT boasts rugged capabilities and an adventurous spirit, it’s still an excellent choice for families. With third-row seating as standard, there’s room for seven, making it ideal for those who need extra space but still want a vehicle that feels manageable in size. The XRT’s cargo area, offering up to 80 cubic feet of storage with the second and third rows folded, ensures plenty of room for gear, groceries, or whatever adventure calls for.
The XRT is also a capable hauler, with its improved cooling system allowing a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs—a full 1,000 lbs more than other trims and more than double the capacity of the Santa Fe Hybrid. This makes it not just a stylish and rugged SUV, but a practical one for those who might want to bring along a camper, trailer, or boat for their weekend trips.
A Price Worth the Drive: Value and Accessibility of the XRT
Starting at $40,600, the Santa Fe XRT is priced to offer value for its added capability, styling, and comfort. The XRT’s combination of standard all-wheel drive, upgraded tires, and increased ground clearance make it a compelling choice for those who want a versatile SUV without going too far up the price ladder. Compared to the higher trims of the Santa Fe, it offers a rugged alternative without compromising too much on comfort and features.
Conclusion: 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT – Stylish, Comfortable, and Ready for the Road Less Traveled
In a world where SUVs often aim to either look rugged or feel luxurious, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT strikes a unique balance between off-road style and everyday comfort. While it may not be a hardcore off-roader like some of its competitors, it’s an excellent option for those who need an all-around SUV that can handle back roads, family trips, and the occasional adventure off the beaten path—all while looking good doing it. For drivers seeking a capable and stylish SUV that doesn’t break the bank, the Santa Fe XRT is certainly worth a test drive.
