Why Everyone's Rushing to Buy the Santa Fe Hybrid: Wait Times Soar!

Today, I want to introduce the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, a mid-size SUV model from Hyundai.

Recently, despite rising interest rates and the impact of economic downturns reducing vehicle delivery times,

the popularity of hybrid (HEV) models remains strong, with wait times still exceeding one year.

This enduring demand showcases their appeal.

Currently, the gasoline model of the Santa Fe has a delivery wait time of about four months,

while the HEV model requires approximately 14 months.

Those who experienced gasoline prices soaring to 2,500 won per liter around this time last year

might find the popularity of the hybrid model quite understandable.

For this reason, even though the HEV model is more expensive than the gasoline version,

many people are increasingly viewing it as a smart choice due to its stable maintenance costs.

The Santa Fe plans to unveil a full redesign in the fourth quarter of this year,

About three months ago, I saw a predicted design from a user named New York Mammoth,

and I posted about the design and various expected features.

With a complete redesign, they plan to showcase a design that is 180 degrees different.

Recently, a close friend of mine was torn between choosing the Santa Fe and the Sorento hybrid model,

so I shared comparisons of both models along with various information.

Most likely, they will weigh their options between these two popular domestic models,

so I will share specifications and comparison information for those individuals.

The comparison features the most popular models:

the 2023 Santa Fe Hybrid Gasoline 1.6 Turbo 4WD Exclusive 5-Seater and

the Sorento Hybrid Gasoline 1.6 Turbo 4WD Prestige 5-Seater.

Santa Fe Gasoline 1.6 Turbo HEV

Sorento Gasoline 1.6 Turbo HEV

Overall Length (mm)

4,785

4,810

1,685 35.7

1,900	1,900	Overall Height (mm)
1,700	Wheelbase (mm)	2,765
2,815	Maximum Power (ps/rpm)	180/5500
230	Maximum Torque (kgm/rpm)	27.0/1500~4500
	The Sorento HEV model is slightly larger, particularly with its wheelbase being 50mm longer, providing ample headroom for the same number of passengers.
	Fuel Efficiency Comparison
Santa Fe Gasoline 1.6 Turbo Hybrid 4WD (Exclusive, 5-Seater) Engine Displacement: 1,598 cc	Combined Fuel Efficiency: 13.4 km/L (City 14.0 / Highway 12.6)	Sorento Gasoline 1.6 Turbo Hybrid 4WD (Prestige, 5-Seater)

Engine Displacement: 1,598 cc

(City 14.3 / Highway 13.0)

Cost Estimate Comparison

Santa Fe Gasoline 1.6 Turbo

Vehicle Price: 39 million won (approximately 29,000 USD)
Registration Tax: 2.5 million won (approximately 1,800 USD)

Public Bond Amount (Discount): 160,000 won (approximately 120 USD)

=> Estimated Actual Purchase Price: 41.8 million won (approximately 31,000 USD)

Sorento Gasoline 1.6 Turbo

Vehicle Price: 39.7 million won (approximately 29,500 USD)

Registration Tax: 2.5 million won (approximately 1,800 USD)

Public Bond Amount (Discount): 170,000 won (approximately 130 USD)

=> Estimated Actual Purchase Price: 42.5 million won (approximately 31,500 USD)

When comparing fuel efficiency, the Sorento model shows a 0.3 km/L advantage in combined efficiency,

and the estimated actual purchase price indicates that the Santa Fe Hybrid is about 700,000 won (approximately 500 USD) cheaper.

Overall, the differences in size and fuel efficiency are not significant, so

personal preferences regarding exterior design and interior features likely play a major role in the decision-making process.

In the 2022 domestic car sales rankings, the Santa Fe sold 28,705 units, while the Sorento sold 68,902 units, indicating a significant gap.

This difference likely stems from the Sorento's superior space and design features.

However, there are predictions that the full redesign set to launch this fall could reverse the sales trend.

My friend made their decision after thoroughly understanding the pros and cons of long-term rentals and the delivery time,

and matched their desired stock, receiving immediate delivery within a week.

My friend chose long-term rental for various reasons,

primarily because they run a personal business and can benefit from tax deductions through cost management.

Operating a vehicle for business allows for annual cost deductions of up to 15 million won (approximately 11,000 USD) for rental and maintenance expenses.

If the vehicle is not expensive, all expenses can be managed within this budget.

New entrepreneurs might have many questions regarding cost management,

and they can seek assistance from KS Auto Plan consultants to navigate legal boundaries effectively.

For those still learning to drive, long-term rentals can prevent their insurance rates from increasing.

Long-term rentals apply the insurance rates of the rental company, so even if an accident occurs, personal insurance rates do not rise.

Those who are inexperienced drivers or have a history of frequent accidents can see a reduction in their insurance premiums.

When purchasing and operating a vehicle, one often worries about where to get repairs, whether the service provider is reliable, and if the prices are reasonable.

However, with long-term rentals, you can manage vehicle maintenance and repairs at designated locations, eliminating the need to worry about where to go or the cost.

Those who have dealt with these concerns know that it can be time-consuming and stressful to research options.

Additionally, using a long-term rental vehicle means it won’t count as your asset, allowing you to avoid DSR regulations and not affecting your home purchase eligibility.

Some people have missed out on their ideal homes due to car purchases, so considering this aspect, rentals and leases can alleviate some of the stress.

The downside is that you must display a license plate with the letters '하, 허, 호.'

Just a few years ago, such plates drew negative attention, but now they seem to have lost their stigma.

I also believe that as long as you use the service reasonably, there shouldn't be any issues.

Monthly rental fees can vary based on the contract holder's credit and initial costs,

and it might be beneficial to get a comparison quote from KS Auto Plan before deciding.

The 2023 Santa Fe Hybrid has a delivery wait time of 14 months,

making it nearly impossible for those who contract now or must wait over six months to receive the current model.

By that time, only the fully redesigned model will be in production, and

customers will likely have to accept a price increase on the new model.

Recently launched vehicles have seen price increases of 3 to 5 million won (approximately 2,200 to 3,700 USD) based on powertrains and trims,

creating a sense that manufacturers are passing on material cost increases to customers under the guise of improved product value.

However, for those wanting the current Santa Fe HEV model,

the redesigned model with its different design and price increases may not be necessary.

Those interested in the current model should take advantage of the early purchase opportunity to secure stock of popular models and options through KS Auto Plan's long-term rental and leasing services.

Some may argue that long-term rentals and leases are more expensive than direct purchases, but if you compare the pros and cons, you can find advantageous options depending on your situation.

By matching the inventory secured by long-term rental and leasing agencies, immediate delivery within a week is possible,

meaning you can avoid waiting over a year and dealing with price increases.

The availability of immediate delivery can be quickly confirmed through KS Auto Plan's consultation services.

Especially, the HEV model has not seen a reduction in delivery wait times, so

those wanting the current model should consult before stock runs out.

Consultation can be easily requested through the website, and you can receive guidance via KakaoTalk, phone, or text message,

so understanding the lowest price comparison quotes and delivery availability will help ensure a satisfying decision.

This post received support for content creation from KS.

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