Hyundai Santa Fe (2018-2023) review

The diesel version of the Santa Fe looks like a solid bet on paper, but these days you’ve got to weigh that against punitive tax costs and the increasing prevalence of so-called low-emission zones. The diesel costs from £43,725. Though upgrading to the plug-in hybrid model costs another £5,000 or so. The hybrid is slightly cheaper, starting at £43,240. The range tops out at £51,680 for the plug-in hybrid Ultimate, with 4WD.

Hyundai has dialled back its PCP offers, with just the 2WD hybrid model available for around £700, if you meet the other criteria.

The Sorento is the first obvious place to look at a Santa Fe alternative, although with a price range of £49,590-£56,995 that car is a lot spicier at the top end, making the Santa Fe the more compelling option as a PHEV.

The Skoda Kodiaq and Peugeot 5008 are cheaper (but less sophisticated) if your budget doesn't stretch to Santa Fe levels. Meanwhile the Land Rover Discovery Sport is very similar on price: it can get very posh in there, but the PHEV loses its seven-seater status because of the battery pack.

The Santa Fe’s price list might look off putting alongside rivals, but don’t forget that Hyundai has thrown the kitchen sink at the equipment list. Your additional options consist of £700 or so for fancy paint, or £2,000 for swanky leather. There’s a raft of safety equipment fitted and tech gizmos galore inside. Should anything break there’s a five-year unlimited mileage warranty and fixed term servicing packages available.