Hyundai Santa Fe and Ioniq 5: A Comparison of Innovative Features
Hyundai is pushing the boundaries of automotive design and technology, and two of its latest models – the 2025 Santa Fe and the Ioniq 5 – showcase this commitment. Both vehicles have recently received accolades, with the Ioniq 5 being named Best Car for City Drivers and the Santa Fe recognized as Best 7-Seater at the 2025 Autotrader Drivers’ Choice Awards.1 This article delves into the unique features of each vehicle, highlighting what sets them apart.
Innovative Gear Selectors
Hyundai is moving away from traditional mechanical shifters, embracing more creative electronic gear selectors, particularly in its electric vehicles. The Santa Fe features an evolution of the gear selector first seen in the Ioniq 5. Mounted on the right side of the steering column, below the windshield wiper stalk, the selector operates with a twist for drive or reverse and a “bop” for park, reminiscent of the popular 1990s toy, “Bop It!”. This design frees up space for a large tray ahead of the cupholders, ideal for storing phones (with wireless charging in some trims) and other items.
Hyundai’s Connected Car App
Hyundai’s MyHyundai app offers remote vehicle control, a feature becoming increasingly common in modern cars. The app allows users to remote-start the vehicle and set climate control preferences for cabin temperature, defrosters, heated steering wheel, and heated seats. While Hyundai’s app is less feature-rich than those offered by Tesla or Rivian, it consistently performs a crucial function: remote starting. A notable benefit is that the Bluelink+ service, providing the app’s connectivity, is free for the original owner for as long as they own the vehicle, unlike many competitors who charge a monthly subscription fee.2
The app also provides push notifications for unlocked doors and reports on fuel/range levels, sunroof status, and service scheduling. Users can also utilize their smartphones as digital keys, though Hyundai currently limits users to creating a single digital key that cannot be shared between iOS and Android devices. Traditional key fobs are still included, offering a convenient alternative.
Pricing and Trims
As of early 2026, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe has a starting MSRP of $34,200, with various trims available including Calligraphy AWD, Limited AWD, and XRT AWD.2 The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 starts at a higher price point of $42,600, with trims such as Limited AWD and Preferred Long Range AWD.2 Both vehicles received a 3.60 out of 5 overall rating in data-driven ratings, though the Ioniq 5 Preferred trim earned a slightly higher 3.88 rating, particularly for its efficiency.3
Key Takeaways
- The Hyundai Santa Fe and Ioniq 5 both offer innovative features and have received industry recognition.
- Hyundai’s electronic gear selector, first introduced in the Ioniq 5 and now featured in the Santa Fe, optimizes cabin space.
- The MyHyundai app provides convenient remote control and monitoring features, with Bluelink+ connectivity offered free of charge to original owners.
- The Santa Fe is positioned as a more affordable option with 7-seat availability, while the Ioniq 5 offers a fully electric driving experience.
Hyundai continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction with vehicles like the Santa Fe and Ioniq 5. As the automotive landscape evolves, these models represent a blend of practicality, technology, and thoughtful design.