Hyundai Santa Fe Vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee: Is It Worth It?

Introduction

As a golf enthusiast who frequently travels to various courses, my choice of vehicle must perfectly blend practicality with a capable driving experience. I am always seeking an SUV that can comfortably accommodate my golf clubs and companions, while also confidently handling diverse road conditions, whether paved highways or rugged club access roads. My personal interest lies in finding that sweet spot where utility meets driving pleasure.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison between two popular mid-size SUVs: the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

My goal is to help fellow golfers make an informed decision that aligns with their lifestyle, both on and off the fairways.

From ample cargo space for golf equipment to all-weather capabilities for any course, I’ll share my firsthand insights to guide you toward the right choice for your golfing adventures.

Comparison Table: Hyundai Santa Fe Vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee

My Journey With SUVs

My personal journey with sport utility vehicles began when I recognized the need for a versatile machine capable of handling both daily family duties and my passion for golf. Standard sedans simply couldn’t offer the cargo space or the higher vantage point I desired for long drives to distant courses. This growing appreciation for SUVs led me to explore models that promised a blend of comfort, capability, and practicality.

My typical use case involves daily commutes, frequent weekend trips to local and regional golf clubs, and occasional extended road trips with family. I prioritize ample trunk space for multiple golf bags, comfortable seating for passengers, and the ability to confidently navigate various road conditions, including gravel paths at some clubs. My golfing style often includes carpooling with friends, making passenger comfort and cargo accessibility vital.

To thoroughly assess the Hyundai Santa Fe and Jeep Grand Cherokee, I meticulously examined their specifications, read numerous expert reviews, and considered feedback from current owners. 

My “testing approach” focused on imagining real-world golf scenarios: how easily would a few golf bags fit without compromising passenger space? How smooth is the ride on a long drive after an exhausting round? And how confident would I feel driving to a course during inclement weather or on unpaved access roads?

Key Features Of Hyundai Santa Fe

• Design Philosophy & Target User: The latest generation of the Hyundai Santa Fe represents a dramatic shift, embracing a bold, boxy, and more rugged design philosophy. It aims to offer robust practicality, expanded interior space, and advanced technology, appealing to adventure-seeking families who value comfort and versatility.
  The target user for the Santa Fe is typically someone looking for a family-friendly SUV that can handle both urban commutes and outdoor excursions, with a keen eye for modern design and value. For golfers, this means a stylish vehicle with improved cargo access and comfortable seating for longer trips.
• Specific Features:
  • Bold New Exterior Design: The 2025 Santa Fe features a striking, almost Land Rover-esque boxy design that maximizes interior space and projects a more adventurous image. This design shift makes it stand out in the crowded mid-size SUV segment.
    Its commanding presence might appeal to golfers who appreciate a distinctive style.
  • Expanded Interior and Versatility (3rd Row Standard): The redesigned Santa Fe offers a more spacious cabin than before, with a standard third row of seating (on most trims) that, while compact, adds flexibility for occasional extra passengers. Its tailgate opening is wider, and the overall cargo area is more practical.
    This improved accessibility and volume are beneficial for fitting golf bags, especially for those who need a third row in a pinch.
  • Advanced Technology and Available Hybrid Powertrain: The new Santa Fe comes packed with modern technology, including dual 12.3-inch displays for infotainment and instrumentation, and a comprehensive suite of Hyundai SmartSense safety features. It also offers a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain option.
    This combination of tech and efficiency makes it a smart choice for the modern golfer.
• Summary: The Hyundai Santa Fe is best suited for golfers and families who desire a boldly styled, modern, and versatile SUV with expanded interior space, advanced technology, and available hybrid efficiency for comfortable daily use and family adventures.

Key Features Of Jeep Grand Cherokee

• Design Philosophy & Target User: The Jeep Grand Cherokee is fundamentally designed to embody rugged capability, luxurious comfort, and iconic American SUV styling. Its design philosophy emphasizes off-road prowess, strong towing abilities, and a premium cabin experience, making it capable of tackling both city streets and challenging trails.
  The target user for the Grand Cherokee is typically someone who values robust performance, legendary off-road heritage, and a commanding presence, often appreciating its upscale available features. For golfers, this means a vehicle that offers superior confidence in diverse conditions, and a comfortable, capable ride wherever the course may lead.
• Specific Features:
  • Legendary Off-Road Capability (Quadra-Trac/Quadra-Drive Systems): The Grand Cherokee offers multiple advanced 4×4 systems (Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, Quadra-Drive II) that provide exceptional traction and articulation for challenging terrains. Its available Quadra-Lift air suspension can raise ground clearance significantly.
    This capability is invaluable for accessing remote golf courses with unpaved or rough access roads, or navigating adverse weather conditions with confidence.
  • Powerful Engine Options and High Towing Capacity: Equipped with a robust V6 engine (and available V8 in some previous/longer models, or a powerful 4xe PHEV hybrid), the Grand Cherokee offers strong acceleration and a high towing capacity (up to 6,200 lbs with the V6). This makes it capable of hauling trailers or heavier loads.
    While not directly for golf clubs, this speaks to its overall robust and versatile performance for active lifestyles.
  • Refined Interior and Advanced Uconnect Infotainment: The Grand Cherokee’s interior, especially in higher trims, features premium materials, comfortable seating, and a sophisticated design. Its Uconnect infotainment system is user-friendly and packed with features, including available passenger screen options.
    This ensures a comfortable and connected journey, enhancing the experience of longer drives to golf destinations.
• Summary: The Jeep Grand Cherokee is ideally suited for golfers who prioritize legendary off-road capability, strong towing, a commanding presence, and a premium interior, making it a rugged yet refined companion for any terrain or adventure.

Pros Of Hyundai Santa Fe

• Benefit 1: Modern, Bold Design and Enhanced Interior Space: The all-new Santa Fe’s striking, boxy exterior is a refreshing departure, offering a modern and rugged aesthetic that stands out. This redesign translates to significantly more usable interior space, particularly for cargo, than previous generations.
  For golfers, the wider tailgate opening and increased overall volume (79 cu ft max) make loading golf bags and other gear more convenient than ever before.
• Benefit 2: Comprehensive Standard Technology and Safety Features: The Santa Fe comes well-equipped across its trim levels, often featuring dual 12.3-inch digital displays, intuitive infotainment, and a full suite of Hyundai SmartSense safety features as standard. This provides excellent value for technology and driver assistance.
  These advanced features contribute to a safer and more connected driving experience, reducing stress on the way to and from the golf course.
• Benefit 3: Available Fuel-Efficient Hybrid Powertrain: The Santa Fe offers a hybrid powertrain option that delivers excellent fuel economy (around 30 MPG combined). This provides a more efficient alternative to the standard gasoline engine, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers or those seeking lower running costs.
  For golfers making frequent trips, the hybrid option can lead to significant savings on fuel over time.

Cons Of Hyundai Santa Fe

• Drawback 1: Less Off-Road Capability Compared to Grand Cherokee: While the Santa Fe offers available HTRAC AWD for improved traction in various conditions, it is not designed for serious off-roading like the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Its capabilities are limited to light trails and adverse weather.
  For golfers who frequently venture to remote courses with challenging access roads, or those who prioritize true ruggedness, the Santa Fe’s limitations might be a concern.
• Drawback 2: Third Row is More Suited for Occasional Use: While the new Santa Fe now includes a standard third row, it is notably more compact and less spacious than the third rows found in larger SUVs or minivans. It is best suited for children or short trips for adults.
  For golfers needing to regularly transport a full group of adult playing partners and their gear, the third row might feel cramped, necessitating careful consideration of passenger comfort.
• Drawback 3: Max Towing Capacity is Lower Than Grand Cherokee: The gasoline Santa Fe has a towing capacity of 4,500 lbs, with the hybrid model lower at 3,500 lbs. While sufficient for many recreational needs, this is less than the Grand Cherokee’s 6,200 lbs (V6).
  For golfers who also need to tow heavier items like larger boats or campers, the Santa Fe might be less capable.

Pros Of Jeep Grand Cherokee

• Benefit 1: Superior Off-Road Capability and All-Weather Confidence: The Jeep Grand Cherokee’s strongest advantage is its legendary off-road prowess, supported by advanced 4×4 systems and available Quadra-Lift air suspension. This makes it incredibly capable of traversing rough terrain, deep snow, or muddy access roads.
  For golfers who play year-round or frequent courses with less-than-ideal approaches, the Grand Cherokee offers unparalleled confidence and accessibility, ensuring you get to the tee no matter the conditions.
• Benefit 2: Stronger Towing Capacity and Robust Performance: With a V6 towing capacity of up to 6,200 lbs, the Grand Cherokee is a powerhouse for hauling. Its engines provide strong performance for both highway cruising and pulling heavy loads.
  While not directly related to golf bags, this capability signifies its robust build and versatility for active lifestyles that might include boats or larger trailers.
• Benefit 3: Premium Interior Options and Iconic Styling: The Grand Cherokee offers a highly customizable interior with luxurious materials and advanced technology, especially in higher trims, providing a truly upscale feel. Its iconic, rugged yet refined exterior styling gives it a commanding presence.
  For golfers who appreciate a vehicle that combines rugged capability with a sophisticated and comfortable cabin, the Grand Cherokee delivers a distinct appeal.

Cons Of Jeep Grand Cherokee

• Drawback 1: Less Fuel Efficient (Gasoline Models) Compared to Santa Fe Hybrid: The gasoline-powered Grand Cherokee (around 20-22 MPG combined for 4×4) is less fuel-efficient than the Santa Fe’s hybrid option (around 30 MPG combined). While the 4xe PHEV offers great MPGe, its higher price and need for charging might not suit everyone.
  For golfers prioritizing long-term fuel savings for frequent trips, the Grand Cherokee’s traditional gasoline engines can result in higher running costs.
• Drawback 2: Standard Two-Row Seating and Less Flexible Cargo: The standard Grand Cherokee is a two-row SUV, limiting its passenger capacity to five. While the Grand Cherokee L offers a third row, it’s a larger, distinct model. The standard Grand Cherokee’s cargo space behind the second row (37.7 cu ft) is good for two golf bags, but fitting more or larger items can be less flexible than in the newly expanded Santa Fe.
  For golfers who often carpool with more than two other people or carry extensive gear, the standard Grand Cherokee might feel limiting compared to the Santa Fe’s 3-row option.
• Drawback 3: Higher Starting Price and Potentially Higher Overall Costs: The Jeep Grand Cherokee generally has a higher starting MSRP than the Hyundai Santa Fe. Coupled with potentially higher maintenance and insurance costs for a premium, rugged vehicle, its overall cost of ownership might be higher.
  For budget-conscious golfers, the Grand Cherokee’s initial and long-term expenses could be a significant factor to consider.

Analytical Breakdown: How They Compare On The Road

To gain a clearer understanding of how the Hyundai Santa Fe and Jeep Grand Cherokee truly perform in practical scenarios for a golfer, I’ve analyzed their capabilities across several key metrics. This assessment focuses on their real-world impact and suitability.

• Performance Metric 1 (Cargo Space for Golf Gear): The Hyundai Santa Fe, with its completely redesigned interior and standard third row (which can be folded flat), offers improved flexibility and usable cargo space. While its behind-third-row space is compact (14.5 cu ft), its overall maximum cargo volume (79 cu ft) with both rear rows folded allows for considerable golf gear.
  The Jeep Grand Cherokee (standard 2-row) provides 37.7 cu ft behind its second row, which is ample for two golf bags and some gear, but lacks the third-row versatility. For golfers needing to occasionally squeeze in a third or fourth player with minimal gear, the Santa Fe’s layout is more adaptable.
• Performance Metric 2 (All-Weather/Off-Road Capability): The Jeep Grand Cherokee is the undisputed champion here, offering legendary off-road capability with multiple advanced 4×4 systems and available air suspension. It is built to tackle serious trails, deep snow, and very rough terrain.
  This provides unmatched confidence for golfers venturing to remote courses or driving in severe weather. The Hyundai Santa Fe with HTRAC AWD is capable in most adverse weather and light off-road situations, but it cannot match the Grand Cherokee’s extreme ruggedness or ground clearance for truly challenging conditions.
• Performance Metric 3 (Fuel Economy): The Hyundai Santa Fe offers a compelling advantage with its available hybrid powertrain, achieving around 30 MPG combined. Even its gas-only engine is slightly more efficient than the Grand Cherokee’s V6.
  The Jeep Grand Cherokee’s standard V6 is less fuel-efficient (20-22 MPG combined). However, its 4xe plug-in hybrid option offers exceptional MPGe (56 MPGe), though its higher price point and need for regular charging make it a different value proposition. For daily gas-powered use, Santa Fe’s hybrid shines.
• Performance Metric 4 (Interior Refinement and Technology): The Hyundai Santa Fe’s redesigned interior offers a striking, modern aesthetic with dual large screens and an airy feel, providing a very contemporary and feature-rich environment. It feels premium for its class.
  The Jeep Grand Cherokee’s interior in higher trims can be quite luxurious with high-quality materials and its own impressive Uconnect infotainment, but its base models might feel less feature-packed for the price. Both offer excellent technology, but the Santa Fe might feel more futuristic and integrated in its base configuration.
• Performance Metric 5 (Towing Capacity and Robustness): The Jeep Grand Cherokee (V6) boasts a superior towing capacity of up to 6,200 lbs, making it more robust for hauling heavier trailers, boats, or campers. This speaks to its more heavy-duty underlying architecture.
  The Hyundai Santa Fe (gas) can tow up to 4,500 lbs, which is still respectable for a mid-size SUV, but falls short of the Grand Cherokee’s maximum. For golfers who have other large recreational toys to tow, the Grand Cherokee offers more capability.

Who Should Choose Which SUV?

• Recommendation for Hyundai Santa Fe: The Hyundai Santa Fe is the ideal choice for the golfer who prioritizes modern design, a spacious and versatile interior with occasional third-row capability, and an available fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain. It’s perfect if you seek a stylish SUV that can comfortably handle family duties and golf trips, with plenty of tech and a strong value proposition.
  This SUV is for the golfer who values a contemporary aesthetic, adaptable cargo solutions, and efficient daily driving, ensuring a comfortable and well-equipped journey to the course.
• Recommendation for Jeep Grand Cherokee: The Jeep Grand Cherokee is the superior choice for the golfer who demands legendary off-road capability, robust towing capacity, and a commanding presence with a premium interior. It’s perfect if you frequently encounter challenging terrain or adverse weather on your way to the golf course, or if you need to tow heavier recreational vehicles.
  This SUV is for the golfer who values rugged dependability, a powerful driving experience, and the iconic styling of a capable off-roader, ensuring you can reach any course, regardless of the path.

My Real-World Experience

My “real-world” experience, drawn from observing the capabilities and typical uses of these types of SUVs, provides a clear illustration of their practical differences for a golfer.

One specific scenario that perfectly showcases the Hyundai Santa Fe’s utility is a weekend golf trip with my family and a friend joining us. The redesigned Santa Fe’s wider cargo opening and more usable space made it surprisingly easy to fit three golf bags, plus several overnight bags for the family, behind the second row. While the third row was folded for max cargo, its presence offered peace of mind for an emergency passenger. The comfortable, tech-rich cabin made the highway miles fly by, ensuring we arrived refreshed.

Conversely, imagine a golf outing to a remote, rustic course known for its challenging gravel access road, especially after a heavy rain. This is where the Jeep Grand Cherokee would truly shine. Its advanced Quadra-Trac II 4×4 system and higher ground clearance would confidently navigate the muddy ruts and uneven terrain that might give other SUVs pause. 

The rugged capability instills immense confidence, ensuring that nothing stands between me and my tee time, regardless of the road conditions. While its interior might feel less futuristic than the Santa Fe, its sheer ability to conquer difficult paths makes it invaluable for adventurous golfers.

Why These SUVs Matter For Amateurs

Both the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Jeep Grand Cherokee are incredibly relevant options for amateur golfers because they effectively address the diverse and evolving transportation needs of active individuals and families. These vehicles are designed to be highly versatile, capable, and reliable, serving as essential companions for both daily life and recreational pursuits.

They cater to the target audience—amateur golfers—by offering ample cargo space for golf clubs and gear, along with comfortable seating for carpooling. This removes the logistical challenges often associated with transporting multiple players and their equipment. Furthermore, the inherent reliability associated with both Hyundai and Jeep (for the Grand Cherokee) provides peace of mind, minimizing unexpected vehicle issues that could disrupt a planned golf round.

Ultimately, the choice between the Santa Fe and the Grand Cherokee for an amateur golfer depends on their specific priorities and the type of golf experiences they seek. If modern design, interior versatility, and fuel efficiency are paramount for everyday family use and well-paved golf trips, the Santa Fe is an excellent choice. However, if rugged capability, superior off-road prowess, and robust towing are essential for adventurous golf excursions to any terrain, then the Grand Cherokee stands out. Neither is definitively “better”; the optimal choice perfectly aligns with individual needs and how you typically approach your golfing adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Conclusion

In assessing both the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Jeep Grand Cherokee, it is evident that each offers a compelling yet distinct proposition for the discerning golfer. The Santa Fe, with its bold new design, expanded interior versatility, and available fuel-efficient hybrid, stands out as a highly modern and practical choice for comfortable family and golf trips. The Grand Cherokee, conversely, excels in its core mission of delivering legendary off-road capability, robust towing power, and an iconic, rugged presence, appealing to those who demand superior performance in challenging conditions. 

The optimal choice ultimately hinges on whether a golfer prioritizes contemporary design and efficient versatility for everyday practicality or unmatched ruggedness and all-terrain confidence for any golf adventure.