Should I go for the 2024 Hybrid Limited or the 2025?

Hi everyone,

I’ve been checking out this forum a lot recently because I’m seriously considering getting the Santa Fe Hybrid. I test drove one yesterday and thought it was great. I’m upgrading from my 2008 Honda Ridgeline, though I plan to keep it for occasional use since it’s got a bed and a hitch for towing. The difference between my old truck and these newer models is just wild. As much as I love the simplicity of my Ridgeline, all the features in these 2024 models make me really excited to upgrade.

The dealership near me has both the 2024 and 2025 Hybrid Limited models in green with pecan brown interiors. This trim and color combo are perfect for me because of the price and my plans to add Falken Wildpeak tires (which don’t fit on the Calligraphy wheels). I think the green exterior with brown interior and more rugged tires—necessary for winter driving and snow—will make it look fantastic! I might even consider a small lift for it.

But here’s my dilemma. People often say not to buy the first year of a new generation because of potential issues that get fixed in later years. From what I’ve researched, there aren’t any big differences between the 2024 and 2025 models. I haven’t found much online or on YouTube about updates to the hybrid engine or interior, and it seems like both years are getting positive reviews.

Are there any major differences between the 2024 and 2025 Hybrid Limited? Has anyone noticed something about the 2025 that made you choose it over the 2024 (other than price)?

Thanks for your help!

As far as I know, there weren’t any issues with the 2024 hybrid, and the only change for 2025 was adding a new exterior color—blue.

Ren said:
As far as I know, there weren’t any issues with the 2024 hybrid, and the only change for 2025 was adding a new exterior color—blue.

Thanks for the info! I appreciate it.

I don’t think there’s much of a difference, but the 2025 might hold its value better if you ever sell or get into an accident. It really depends on what kind of deal you can get for the 2024.

Corey said:
I don’t think there’s much of a difference, but the 2025 might hold its value better if you ever sell or get into an accident. It really depends on what kind of deal you can get for the 2024.

Yeah, I see what you mean. Resale value doesn’t matter much to me since I tend to keep my vehicles for a long time. By the time I let it go, it probably won’t be worth much, kind of like my Ridgeline now.

I haven’t noticed any real differences between the two years. I heard something about minor exterior changes and more power for the 2025, but whenever I check the specs, they’re exactly the same.

Hal said:
I haven’t noticed any real differences between the two years. I heard something about minor exterior changes and more power for the 2025, but whenever I check the specs, they’re exactly the same.

That’s been my experience too. I’ve seen people mention things, but when I look up specs on Hyundai’s site, everything seems identical.

I wanted a 2025 initially, but they had my preferred color in a 2024. I was happy about it because I managed to negotiate a much better deal on the 2024 since it was the end of November. It worked out really well. They were a lot less flexible when negotiating for the 2025. There’s no actual difference between the two years anyway.

I also plan to keep my car for a long time, so losing one model year on paper didn’t bother me at all.

@Bryn
Good to hear! That’s kind of why I’m leaning toward the 2024. I figure I can push for a better deal, especially since the dealership has more 2025 models than 2024 ones right now. I feel like they’d want to move the older ones quickly.

2025 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

From Google AI:
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe is a full redesign with a boxier look, and the 2025 model doesn’t have major changes.

The 2025 Hybrid is said to have improved fuel efficiency, better safety features, a refreshed exterior, and upgraded infotainment.

@Hayes
That sounds like one of those AI hallucinations.

There’s absolutely no difference except for one new color added to the 2025 lineup in the US. Everything else is identical—same parts, same specs.