Morrie's Auto Group - Why the 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE XRT Makes Sense for Brooklyn Park, MN Drivers
The 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE XRT is the trim that makes the SANTA FE feel especially ready for real Minnesota life without pushing shoppers into a specialty vehicle. Brooklyn Park drivers often need one SUV to handle a wide range of routines: commuting along Highway 610, running errands near Zane Avenue, carrying sports gear across town, visiting family in nearby suburbs, and heading out toward parks, trails, or lake destinations when free time opens up. The XRT fits that rhythm because it blends three-row practicality with standard HTRAC AWD, all-terrain tires, added ride height, and useful towing capability.
What makes the XRT compelling is not one single feature. It is the way the equipment works together. The SANTA FE already has a spacious, boxy design with a wide liftgate opening and meaningful cargo capacity. XRT builds on that foundation by adding confidence-oriented hardware and a more rugged personality. For shoppers who like the premium shape and quiet ride of the SANTA FE but want a stronger sense of capability, XRT is the clear standout.
Built for Drivers Who Use Every Part of the SUV
The SANTA FE XRT keeps seven-passenger seating, which is important for households that need flexibility more than a permanently filled third row. The second row can carry adults comfortably, while the third row is helpful for kids, carpool duty, or occasional extra passengers. When cargo takes priority, the folding second and third rows open up a large, flat, usable area. Hyundai lists 14.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 40.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 79.6 cubic feet behind the front seats. That means the XRT can switch from people mover to gear hauler without asking the driver to plan the whole day around cargo limitations.
For Brooklyn Park families, that matters. A weekday might involve backpacks, work bags, groceries, and a stroller. A weekend might bring folding chairs, hockey bags, home improvement supplies, or luggage for a road trip. The XRT's squared-off rear design and wide opening make loading bulky items feel less awkward, and the underfloor storage tray adds another place to keep smaller items organized and out of sight.
Why Standard HTRAC AWD Matters
HTRAC AWD is standard on the 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE XRT, and that is a major reason to choose this trim. The system is active on demand, meaning it can vary torque distribution based on conditions and drive mode. Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart modes can distribute torque between the front and rear wheels as needed, while Snow mode is designed to help manage lower-traction road surfaces. XRT also adds Sand and Mud settings, which reinforces its role as the more adventure-ready member of the lineup.
This does not turn the SANTA FE into an extreme off-road SUV, and that is part of the appeal. Most shoppers do not need a harsh-riding trail machine. The XRT delivers a balanced approach: standard AWD for changing road conditions, all-terrain tires for more bite beyond clean pavement, and enough ground clearance to make rougher access roads less concerning. Around Brooklyn Park, that mix feels practical because driving can shift quickly from multi-lane commuting to neighborhood streets, construction zones, gravel parking areas, and recreational access roads.
XRT Capability Without Losing Everyday Comfort
The XRT uses Hyundai's Smartstream 2.5L Turbo GDI + MPI engine, rated at 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission and SHIFTRONIC® manual shift paddle shifters. The result is a powertrain that feels well suited to a three-row SUV, especially when merging onto faster roads or carrying a cabin full of passengers and gear. The SANTA FE is tuned more for comfort than aggressive cornering, which works in its favor for drivers who prioritize a quiet, settled ride.
XRT also stands apart with added trailering strength. While most gas SANTA FE trims are rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds with trailer brakes, the XRT increases that rating to 4,500 pounds with trailer brakes. That difference can matter for shoppers planning to tow a small camper, utility trailer, personal watercraft, or other recreational equipment. Trailer Sway Control and trailer pre-wiring are standard, supporting the trim's practical capability story.
- Standard AWD: HTRAC AWD is included on XRT rather than optional.
- Added clearance: XRT has 8.3 inches of minimum ground clearance.
- All-terrain tires: 18-inch wheels wear Continental all-terrain tires.
- Higher towing: XRT is rated up to 4,500 pounds with trailer brakes.
- Navigation tech: A 12.3-inch wide touchscreen with onboard Navigation is standard.
Technology That Supports Real Driving
The 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE XRT also upgrades the technology experience in meaningful ways. Its 12.3-inch wide touchscreen includes onboard Navigation and traffic-flow information, which is useful for drivers moving between Brooklyn Park, Minneapolis, Maple Grove, and surrounding communities. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay remain standard, while Dynamic Voice Recognition makes it easier to manage certain functions without taking attention away from the road.
The XRT adds Hyundai Digital Key 2 Premium, allowing compatible devices to function as a vehicle key through NFC, BLE, and UWB technology. That can be especially convenient for households with multiple drivers. The trim also includes dual wireless phone charging for supported devices, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, Hyundai Pay, a 115-volt power outlet, Rear Seat Quiet Mode, and high-power USB charge ports, including third-row access. These features matter because modern family driving often involves multiple phones, tablets, headphones, and navigation needs all at once.
Safety and Driver Assistance Are a Big Part of the Value
Hyundai gives the XRT a strong driver-assistance package. Standard systems include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist 2, Driver Attention Warning, Safe Exit Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Warning, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist. The XRT also includes Highway Driving Assist I and Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control with stop and go.
For drivers who frequently use Highway 610, I-94, or Highway 169, these systems can help reduce fatigue and support awareness in traffic. Forward Attention Warning is also standard on XRT, adding a driver monitoring element. Advanced Rear Occupant Alert is included as well, using a radar sensor and Bluelink® integration. The overall package makes the XRT feel well-rounded, not just rugged-looking.
Why XRT Is the Smart Trim to Compare First
If the SANTA FE SEL is the comfort-focused value pick, the XRT is the capability-focused value pick. It adds the equipment that cannot be easily duplicated later: standard HTRAC AWD, all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, improved approach and departure angles, and the higher tow rating. It also includes key technology upgrades from the upper-trim side of the lineup, including onboard Navigation, Dynamic Voice Recognition, Hyundai Digital Key 2 Premium, and Highway Driving Assist I.
That balance makes the XRT especially attractive for shoppers who want one SUV for commuting, family duty, recreation, and occasional towing. It looks distinct with Gloss Black exterior elements, black anodized badging, XRT-specific details, and a more planted stance, but the purpose behind the trim is practical. Morrie's Auto Group, serving Forest Lake, Brooklyn Park, and St. Paul, can help shoppers compare the XRT against other SANTA FE trims based on seating needs, towing expectations, technology preferences, and AWD priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does the 2027 Hyundai SANTA FE XRT come with all-wheel drive?
Yes. The XRT comes standard with HTRAC AWD, while several other gas SANTA FE trims offer AWD as an option.
How many passengers does the SANTA FE XRT seat?
The XRT seats seven passengers with a second-row bench seat and a folding third row.
What makes the XRT different from the SEL?
The XRT adds standard HTRAC AWD, all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, XRT exterior styling, onboard Navigation, Hyundai Digital Key 2 Premium, Highway Driving Assist I, and higher towing capability with trailer brakes.
Is the XRT still comfortable for daily driving?
Yes. The XRT keeps the SANTA FE's quiet, comfort-oriented ride while adding capability-focused hardware and technology. It is a strong fit for drivers who want rugged usefulness without giving up everyday refinement.
*Image may not be actual model