Hyundai Santa Fe Named Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year for 2025
December 15 2025,
The Hyundai Santa Fe has officially claimed one of the country's most significant accolades, being named the 2025 Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year by the Canadian Car of the Year Awards! This massive honour is a direct reflection of Santa Fe's huge leap forward for the 2025 model year. It enters the new year with an incredibly bold, boxy redesign, signalling a major shift toward stronger capability and a genuinely adventure-ready personality. This isn't just an update; it's a statement that proves Hyundai's popular three-row SUV is ready to challenge every rival in the segment.
Build & Price your own 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe
Why the 2025 Santa Fe Stood Out to Canadian Jurors
Jurors from across Canada evaluated dozens of new and updated models, and the Hyundai Santa Fe distinguished itself through its dramatic transformation. The rugged new exterior shows Hyundai’s shift toward outdoor-focused driving, and the inclusion of a standard third row gives families and commuters more space for passengers and gear. Power is delivered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission for confident acceleration and smooth daily performance.
Three Key Strengths Highlighted in Testing
The judging panel praised the 2025 Santa Fe in several areas that helped it rise above the competition.
• Interior ergonomics were consistently recognized for simplicity and ease of use.
• The infotainment system earned high marks for clarity, responsiveness and overall user-friendliness.
• Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels also stood out, with jurors noting a quiet and composed cabin even during rough-road driving.
This recognition positions the Hyundai Santa Fe as one of Canada’s most appealing utility vehicles for 2025, blending style, strength and day-to-day practicality in one modern package.
Explore the Award Winning Santa Fe at Canyon Meadows Hyundai

The award-winning 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is here, and the knowledgeable team at Canyon Meadows Hyundai is ready to help you explore every feature of this three-row champion. Your next step is simple. Visit us in AB to compare trims and discover why Canadian drivers are making the switch to the bold new Santa Fe.