The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is an appearance-focused trim level designed to provide a more rugged, adventurous aesthetic to the popular mid-size SUV. While it lacks mechanical off-road upgrades like a lifted suspension or all-terrain tires, it bundles the desirable features of the SEL Convenience Package with unique blacked-out exterior elements and functional roof rails. It serves as a middle-ground option for buyers who prioritize "trail-ready" styling and interior technology over raw performance or high-end luxury.
Understanding the XRT’s Place in the 2022 Santa Fe Lineup
In 2022, Hyundai introduced the XRT trim to capitalize on the growing consumer demand for "overland-lite" vehicles—SUVs that look capable of traversing the Rubicon Trail even if they primarily navigate suburban grocery store parking lots. Positioned between the well-equipped SEL and the near-luxury Limited trim, the XRT is essentially a styling package built upon the foundations of the Santa Fe SEL with the Convenience Package.
As we evaluate this vehicle in 2026, it is important to recognize that the 2022 model year was part of the fourth-generation (TM) facelift. This generation was characterized by its wide, cascading grille and T-shaped LED daytime running lights. The XRT trim specifically targeted the "active lifestyle" demographic, offering a visual alternative to the more chrome-heavy higher trims. However, unlike competitors such as the Subaru Outback Wilderness or even Hyundai’s own later "XRT" iterations in different models, the 2022 Santa Fe XRT focused almost exclusively on aesthetics rather than mechanical fortification.
For secondary market buyers in 2026, the Santa Fe XRT represents a value proposition. It offers the modern safety tech and digital interfaces that became standard during the early 2020s but avoids the steep price tag of the turbocharged Limited or Calligraphy trims.
Exterior Design: The "Rugged" Transformation
The defining characteristic of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is its exterior treatment. Hyundai’s designers replaced the standard silver and chrome accents found on the SEL with matte black and dark silver components.
XRT-Exclusive Features
- Exclusive 18-inch Dark Alloy Wheels: While the Limited and Calligraphy trims moved up to 19-inch or 20-inch wheels, the XRT stuck with 18-inch wheels. From a practical standpoint, the smaller wheel diameter allows for a taller tire sidewall, which technically provides a slightly more cushioned ride over potholes, even if the tires themselves are standard all-season rubber.
- Matte Black Grille and Mirror Covers: The glossy or chrome elements were deleted in favor of a stealthier look. This gives the XRT a more aggressive "blacked-out" presence that remains popular in 2026.
- Rugged Side Steps: These are perhaps the most controversial addition. While they contribute to the SUV's off-road silhouette, the Santa Fe is not a particularly high-riding vehicle. For many adults, the side steps can actually make entry and exit slightly more awkward, as they are narrow and can catch the back of a pant leg in muddy conditions.
- Skid Plate Elements: The front and rear bumpers feature dark silver "skid plate" garnishes. It is vital to note that these are decorative plastic elements, not functional metal plates designed to protect the underbody from rock strikes.
- Roof Side Rails and Cross Rails: Unlike lower trims where cross rails might be an optional accessory, they come standard on the XRT, making it ready for bike racks or cargo boxes immediately.
Performance and Powertrain: Form Over Function
One of the most critical aspects to understand about the 2022 Santa Fe XRT is that its performance is identical to the base SEL trim. It does not receive the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine found in the higher-tier Santa Fe models.
The 2.5L Smartstream Engine
The XRT is powered by a 2.5-liter Smartstream GDI/MPI four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission.
In the context of 2026 driving standards, this powertrain is best described as "adequate." For city driving and daily commuting, the 8-speed automatic shifts smoothly, and the engine is relatively refined. However, with a curb weight approaching 4,000 pounds, the XRT can feel sluggish during high-speed highway merging or when fully loaded with five passengers and gear.
HTRAC All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
While Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) was standard, many 2022 XRT models on the market in 2026 feature Hyundai’s HTRAC AWD system. This is an electronic part-time system that can actively distribute torque between the front and rear axles. While it includes a "Lock" mode for slippery conditions (snow or gravel), it is not a heavy-duty system with a low-range transfer case. It is designed for confidence in inclement weather rather than technical rock crawling.
Fuel Economy
Because it lacks the turbocharger and heavy luxury features of the Calligraphy trim, the XRT’s fuel economy is respectable for its class.
- FWD: Approximately 25 MPG combined (22 City / 28 Highway).
- AWD: Approximately 24 MPG combined (22 City / 25 Highway). In 2026, these numbers are outpaced by modern hybrids, but for a purely internal combustion mid-size SUV, they remain competitive for the 2022 era.
Interior Technology and Comfort
Since the XRT is based on the SEL with the Convenience Package, the interior is surprisingly tech-forward. This is where the vehicle offers its greatest value to the driver.
Cabin Materials and Seating
The XRT features H-Tex synthetic leather seating surfaces. By 2026, this material has proven to be quite durable, often holding up better against cracks and stains than real leather in high-use family vehicles. The front seats are heated, and the driver's seat features 8-way power adjustment with lumbar support.
The Digital Cockpit
One of the standout features included in the XRT (via the Convenience Package) is the 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster. In 2022, this was a premium feature usually reserved for luxury brands. It allows for customizable layouts and provides clear, high-resolution data.
The infotainment system is centered around an 8-inch touchscreen (unless upgraded to the 10.25-inch unit with navigation). Standard features include:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: This is a major benefit, though the larger 10.25-inch screen oddly required a wired connection in 2022 due to hardware limitations at the time.
- Wireless Device Charging: Located in a convenient vertical slot in the center console.
- Hyundai Digital Key: Allowing users to unlock and start the car using an Android smartphone (though compatibility is limited for iPhone users of that specific model year).
Cargo Space and Utility
The Santa Fe remains a two-row SUV, providing ample room for five passengers. Behind the second row, you’ll find 36.4 cubic feet of cargo space. Folding the rear seats flat expands that to 72.1 cubic feet. The XRT also includes a "hands-free" smart liftgate with auto-open functionality, which is highly practical when carrying groceries or outdoor gear.
Detailed Trim Comparison: XRT vs. SEL vs. Limited
To help clarify the value proposition, the following table compares the XRT with the trims immediately above and below it in the 2022 lineup.
| Feature | Santa Fe SEL (Base) | Santa Fe XRT | Santa Fe Limited |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L 4-Cyl (191 hp) | 2.5L 4-Cyl (191 hp) | 2.5L Turbo (281 hp) |
| Wheels | 18-inch Alloy | 18-inch Dark Alloy | 19-inch Alloy |
| Seating | Cloth | H-Tex (Synthetic) | Leather (Ventilated) |
| Instrument Cluster | 4.2-inch LCD | 12.3-inch Digital | 12.3-inch Digital |
| Sunroof | Optional | Optional | Standard Panoramic |
| Exterior Trim | Chrome/Silver | Matte Black | Satin Chrome |
| 360° Camera | No | No | Yes (Surround View) |
Safety and Driver Assistance Systems
Hyundai SmartSense was a class-leading suite of safety technologies in 2022, and it remains robust by 2026 standards. The XRT comes equipped with a comprehensive array of sensors and cameras.
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): Includes pedestrian, cyclist, and junction-turning detection. It can automatically apply brakes if a collision is imminent.
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA): Unlike passive systems that just beep, this system can apply the brakes on the opposite wheel to "pull" the vehicle back into the lane if you attempt to merge into an occupied spot.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA): Essential for backing out of parking spots in a mid-size SUV.
- Safe Exit Assist (SEA): A clever feature that prevents the rear doors from opening if the radar detects a vehicle approaching from behind, protecting children from stepping into traffic.
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go: This system maintains a set distance from the car ahead and can bring the Santa Fe to a complete stop in traffic, then resume automatically.
Ownership and Reliability in 2026
As the 2022 Santa Fe XRT enters its fourth or fifth year of service, long-term reliability data has become clearer.
The Engine and Transmission
The naturally aspirated 2.5L engine is generally considered more reliable for the long haul than the 2.5L Turbo. Without the added complexity and heat of a turbocharger, there are fewer failure points. The 8-speed automatic (torque converter) in the XRT is also widely regarded as more robust for daily commuting than the Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) found in the Turbo models, which can occasionally exhibit "shudder" in low-speed crawling traffic.
Warranty Considerations
One of Hyundai’s strongest selling points was the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. For the second owner in 2026, it is important to remember that this powertrain warranty usually reverts to a 5-year/60,000-mile coverage from the original in-service date unless the vehicle is purchased as a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) unit.
Maintenance Tips
Owners of the XRT should pay close attention to the roof cross rails. Over time, these can loosen or develop wind whistles if the rubber stripping degrades. Additionally, because the XRT encourages "adventure," check the undercarriage of used units for signs of scraping—remembering that those plastic skid plates offer zero protection to the oil pan or transmission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2022 Santa Fe XRT have more ground clearance?
No. The XRT shares the same ground clearance as the rest of the Santa Fe lineup, which is approximately 8.2 inches. While this is sufficient for dirt roads and snowy driveways, it is not higher than the standard SEL or Limited trims.
Can the Santa Fe XRT tow a trailer?
Yes, the 2022 Santa Fe XRT has a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds when equipped with trailer brakes. This is significantly lower than the 3,500-pound capacity found in the 2.5L Turbo models. It is suitable for a small utility trailer or a pair of jet skis, but not for larger campers.
Is the XRT trim available as a Hybrid?
No. For the 2022 model year, the XRT trim was exclusive to the non-hybrid, 2.5L internal combustion engine. If you require the "rugged" look with a hybrid powertrain, you would need to look at later model years (2024+) where trim availability shifted.
What is the difference between H-Tex and real leather?
H-Tex is Hyundai's proprietary synthetic leather. It is designed to be more eco-friendly and durable than traditional cowhide. It is generally cooler to the touch in summer and more resistant to the "stretching" or "puddling" that often occurs on leather seat bottoms over time.
Are the side steps on the XRT removable?
Yes, the side steps are a bolt-on accessory. If a 2026 buyer finds them cumbersome or aesthetically unpleasing, they can be removed with standard tools, although this may leave mounting holes visible in the plastic rocker panels.
Final Recommendation: Who Should Buy the 2022 Santa Fe XRT?
The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is a "style-first" vehicle. It is the ideal choice for a buyer who loves the "overland" aesthetic—black wheels, roof racks, and a darkened grille—but doesn't actually need to tackle technical off-road trails.
In 2026, it stands out as a smart pre-owned purchase because it includes the high-end 12.3-inch digital cluster and a suite of advanced safety features without the price premium of the Turbo engine or the Limited's leather interior. However, if you frequently drive in the mountains or need to tow more than 2,000 pounds, you may find the 191-horsepower engine underwhelming and should consider stepping up to the Limited or Calligraphy trims for the turbocharged powertrain. For the average suburban adventurer, the XRT offers a unique look and a comfortable, tech-heavy cabin that feels modern even years after its release.
