SUVS

3 Reasons a 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy Is a Better Choice Than a BMW X3

If you’re looking for a crossover, the 2023 Santa Fe has what you need. We just spent a week in the high-end Calligraphy model and were blown away by how luxurious it was. It also rode very smoothly and provided more than enough energy for our daily errands. And while it competes with the likes of the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Nissan Rogue, we thought it would be interesting to compare it to a crossover of the upper class.

Therefore, we stacked the Hyundai Santa Fe’s stats alongside those of the 2023 BMW X3 and were surprised at the value it represented in comparison. Here are three reasons why Calligraphy might be a better choice than a luxury crossover like the BMW X3.

Santa Fe calligraphy is easy, it’s cheaper. Our weeklong test car carried an MSRP of $45,255, including the $1,295 destination fee. By comparison, the base model 2023 X3 costs $46,200, and if you want all the bells and whistles, you can easily spend up to $60,000 when all is said and done.

2. The Hyundai Santa Fe has similar characteristics to the BMW X3

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

Would you believe the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe has more horsepower than standard? It does. As the highest trim level, the Santa Fe Calligraphy features a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. By comparison, the BMW X3 features a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that delivers 248PS and 258Nm of torque.

Sure, you can always opt for the X3 M40i or X3 M, which have a lot more power, but also cost almost twice as much. Power aside, the Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy has many of the same features as the X3. Some of the more notable similarities include the following:

  • A four-wheel drive transmission
  • Electric tailgate
  • A 10.25 inch touchscreen navigation system
  • A premium sound system
  • Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Remote start
  • Nappa leather seats
  • A monitor with surround view

The Hyundai Santa Fe also has a Smart Park feature that allows for self-parking in tight spaces.

3. The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is just as safe as the 2023 BMW X3

Exterior of the 2023 BMW X3
2023 BMW X3 | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

Are you concerned about security? If so, you can rest assured that the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe has received a five-star safety rating from as well as a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS. The 2023 BMW X3 won the same awards and both cars feature similar safety features. Some of these security features include:

  • Forward collision avoidance assistance
  • Blind spot warning
  • Rear cross traffic warning
  • Driver attention alert

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. BMW X3: which crossover is the best choice?

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy infotainment controls
2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

If you’re looking for the best value in a crossover, it’s clear the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy won’t let you go wrong. It is cheaper than the BMW X3, has similar characteristics and is just as safe. Ultimately, it really depends on which car you would prefer – one with everything you need or one with a nifty badging. It’s up to you, but we highly recommend the Santa Fe any day of the week.

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