Inside, the comfort and little touches—especially in the Calligraphy model—are exactly what you’d hope for. That said, even the lower-spec versions are still really well equipped, which is great to see.

The front seats are both heated and cooled, with plenty of electric adjustments, so it’s easy to get comfortable no matter how long the drive (or how little sleep you’ve had!).

In the top-spec model, you also get twin wireless charging pads, which I found surprisingly handy—no more fighting over who gets to charge their phone.

I also love the one-touch power windows with an anti-pinch feature. It’s one of those small things that makes a big difference when you’ve got little ones in the car.

Another standout is how quiet it is inside, thanks to the acoustic glass. It’s almost whisper-quiet, which means you can play that all-important music or white noise softly to help bub drift off to sleep—without road noise getting in the way.

And of course, as mums know, having enough space for all the gear is necessary. The boot space is fantastic when you’re using it as a five-seater. That boxy shape really works in your favour—there’s plenty of room for the pram, bags, groceries, and everything else that comes with mum life. The tailgate opens nice and high too, so no bumped heads (even my husband fits comfortably underneath!). Packing everything in felt easy and stress-free.

If I had to pick, I’d go for the Calligraphy seven-seat all-wheel-drive hybrid. It really feels like the best of everything—space, comfort, efficiency, and all the features you could want.

It is starting to get up there in price, from around $77,000 plus on-road costs—but it does feel worth it for what you get.

This is a Motoring Minute.
I’m Brianna Fraser.

Previous Hyundai Santa Fe Motoring Minute reviews 

• Hyundai Santa Fe – Baby duties week 2
• Hyundai Santa Fe – Baby duties week 1
• Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy revisited for 2025
• Hyundai Santa Fe Highlander Hybrid 2023 Review

Readers can see the full specifications HERE 

Readers can find more details about the Hyundai Santa Fe – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Hyundai Santa Fe – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Hyundai Santa Fe – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Hyundai Santa Fe are in a crowded segment. There is a LOT to choose from.

Better potential choices could be Mazda CX-90, Mazda CX-80, Kia Sorento, Toyota Kluger, Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid, Nissan Pathfinder

Some more left field choices could be Subaru Outback, KGM Rexton, GWM Tank 500 HEV,

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Hyundai Santa Fe – baby duties week 3 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

As you’d expect, the Santa Fe has a five-star ANCAP safety rating, which is reassuring straight away. But it’s the everyday safety features that really stood out to me.

For starters, there are front and side curtain airbags that extend right through to the second row, helping keep bub nicely protected.

The driver display is clear and easy to read, and the controls for the main screen are simple to use without taking your eyes off the road—something you really notice when you’ve got precious cargo on board.

Parking is also much less stressful thanks to the sensors and the surround-view camera, which is a lifesaver in tight car parks (especially when you’re juggling kids and distractions).

One feature I really love is the blind spot monitor, which shows up right in the driver’s display when you indicate—super handy for lane changes. There’s also a warning if you go to open the door and a car is coming, which is such a thoughtful touch when you’ve got little ones in the back.

I also appreciate that things like the headlights, high beams, and even the wipers are automatic. It’s one less thing to think about, so you can stay focused on driving safely.

And honestly, part of safety as a mum is just having enough space to store everything properly. The boot space in the Santa Fe is fantastic when you’re using it as a five-seater. That boxy shape really comes in handy—there’s plenty of room for the pram, nappy bags, groceries, and all the extras. The tailgate opens nice and high too, so no bumped heads (even my husband fits comfortably underneath!). Packing up for the day felt really easy.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Hyundai Santa Fe – Baby duties week 1

Readers can see the full specifications HERE 

Readers can find more details about the Hyundai Santa Fe – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Hyundai Santa Fe – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Hyundai Santa Fe – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Hyundai Santa Fe are in a crowded segment. There is a LOT to choose from.

Better potential choices could be Mazda CX-90, Mazda CX-80, Kia Sorento, Toyota Kluger, Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid, Nissan Pathfinder

Some more left field choices could be Subaru Outback, KGM Rexton, GWM Tank 500 HEV,

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Hyundai Santa Fe – Baby duties week 2 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

It’s a brand-new model, and it really stands out on the road. The front is sleek, while the back has more of a boxy shape. I actually really like this look—and it turns out that boxy rear is super practical too.

There are three different versions to choose from, with the top model offering either six or seven seats.

You can also pick between two engines: a 2.5L turbo petrol or a 1.6L turbo petrol hybrid. Personally, I’d go for the hybrid—it’s a great mix of power for family road trips, while still being fuel-efficient for everyday mum life.

Inside, the Santa Fe feels really spacious and comfy. The front seats are lovely, but it’s the back that really shines for mums. The rear doors open nice and wide, making it much easier to get a baby seat in and out—or gently place a sleeping bub without too much hassle (a big win!).

It also comes with ISOFIX and top tether points for both the second and third row seats. So, you’ve got that extra peace of mind when it comes to safety.

Like most SUVs this size, the third row is better suited for occasional use rather than everyday seating, especially for older kids or adults.

We will chat more about the Sant Fe next week.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications HERE 

Readers can find more details about the Hyundai Santa Fe – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Hyundai Santa Fe – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Hyundai Santa Fe – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Hyundai Santa Fe are in a crowded segment. There is a LOT to choose from.

Better potential choices could be Mazda CX-90, Mazda CX-80, Kia Sorento, Toyota Kluger, Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid, Nissan Pathfinder

Some more left field choices could be Subaru Outback, KGM Rexton, GWM Tank 500 HEV,

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Hyundai Santa Fe – Baby duties week 1 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

A hybrid Vitara makes a lot of sense. The Vitara Hybrid is powered by Suzuki’s Smart Hybrid system that combines a 1.4L turbo petrol engine and lithium-ion battery with 48V mild hybrid technology.

Improvements in acceleration, fuel efficiency and emission reductions are the result.

There are two versions available The Vitara Turbo Hybrid and the Vitara Turbo Hybrid ALLGRIP

Designed with versatility in mind, the ALLGRIP all-wheel drive system offers drivers enhanced traction and confidence across varying road and weather conditions.

With selectable driving modes including Auto, Sport, Snow and Lock, ALLGRIP allows the Suzuki to adapt to everyday commuting as well as weekend adventures, reinforcing its position as a capable and confidence-inspiring compact SUV.

All models come with an impressive range of safety features and are well equipped.

Pricing for the Vitara hybrid start at $39,990 drive away for the base model and $45,990 drive away for the All Grip model.

This is a clever move by Suzuki as smaller SUVs are becoming more popular making up the largest segment of SUV sales.

Having a hybrid model available allows buyers greater choice.

It sits in a competitive segment that includes vehicles like

• the capable Subaru Crosstrek,
• Honda HRV,
• Toyota Corolla Cross,
• Nissan QASHQAI and
• Kia Seltos.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Suzuki Vitara Hybrid  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Suzuki Vitara Hybrid  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Suzuki Vitara Hybrid SUV details for 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

A traditional hybrid like the Toyota Camry uses regenerative braking and its petrol engine to recharge a small battery. The main benefit is convenience: drivers never need to plug in, and fuel efficiency is significantly better than a conventional car.

Hybrids are especially efficient in city driving, where stop-and-go traffic allows frequent energy recovery. They also tend to cost less upfront than plug-in hybrids and require no changes to driving habits. However, their electric-only range is very limited, meaning they still rely heavily on fuel and cannot operate for long without emissions.

In contrast, a plug-in hybrid such as the Mitsubishi Outlander  has a larger battery that can be charged from an external power source. This allows drivers to travel moderate distances—often 50 to 70 km—on electricity alone.

For short daily commutes, a PHEV may use little or no petrol, reducing fuel costs and tailpipe emissions. The downside is higher purchase price, increased vehicle weight, and the need for regular charging access. If not charged consistently, a plug-in hybrid may offer little advantage over a regular hybrid.

Ultimately, hybrids prioritize simplicity and efficiency, while plug-in hybrids offer greater electric capability but require more commitment and infrastructure.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Hybrid Electric Vehicles vs Plug in Hybrid Electric Vehicles 

TO LISTEN TO THE HEV VS PHEV – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post HEV VS PHEV – Im often asked the difference between hybrid and a PHEV vehicle. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Obviously, it has a strong safety cell protecting everyone inside. But there are little features that give me that warm safe feeling.

Things like

• Rear view camera with guidelines – always helpful when parking
• Blind spot monitor and collision avoidance function
• It’s a big car so backing out of car parks is helped by the Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
• Emergency braking for pedestrians, cars and turning a corner if needed and
• The best one for me is a safe exit warning.

On top of those there are airbags everywhere, even for the third row seats. Also, if you do happen to get in an accident the door locks unlock, making access easier.

The hands free automatic tailgate opening on the top three models is a handy feature. So often you have bub in your arms and need to access the boot area. I really like that idea.

Also lets mention that unlike many people movers in the past, This people mover is kind of cool for kids. As they get older, they love the space.

So, my overall impressions of the Kia Carnival is that it is Mum and Bub approved.

Motoring Minute Video – Kia Carnival part three

Other Kia Carnival Reviews for new mums

• Kia Carnival GT-Line HEV – search for the best new mum car part two
• Part one – Kia Carnival GT-Line HEV – search for the best mum car part one 
• Kia Carnival GT-Line – is this the best family car available
• Family holiday – GT Line driven to the Gold Coast
• Kia Carnival – Why it is so good for a family

Readers can find more details  HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Kia Carnival – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead – buyers could look at:

This is a popular segment: Buyers could look at: Hyundai Staria, LDV Mifa, Ford Tourneo

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Kia Carnival – best new mum car Part 3 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

This large SUV has been a favourite over the years. However, the new, bigger and better Palisade has just been released.

It comes with a longer wheelbase, longer body and more interior space.

Thankfully it also retains pleasant styling and looks smaller than it actually is.

Launching in a single Calligraphy Hybrid model, the new Palisade comes with eight seats. There is the option for seven seats with middle row captains’ chairs.

The new turbo hybrid electric petrol engine provides more power and torque than either of the previous petrol or diesel engines. It also has better fuel economy. It comes with a six speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive capability.

Hyundai has also taken the opportunity to tune the suspension for Australian conditions.

Being a hybrid there are some clever features like the vehicle 2 load capacity. This allows user to charge devices and use power appliances as well as use the infotainment and climate control air conditioning when the engine is off.

Pricing for the Hyundai Palisade is from a bit under $90,000 dollars plus the usual costs. Given the size and level of luxury, that’s excellent value for money.

Ill be driving the Palisade in the coming weeks for a better look at how good it is as a new mums car so stay tuned.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Hyundai Palisade   HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Hyundai Palisade – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy Hybrid 2025 Model details appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The Carnival comes in a choice of five different models with three different engines. There is a petrol, a diesel, and a petrol hybrid version. The Hybrid comes with a six speed automatic transmission. The others with the familiar 8 speed automatic.

The Hybrid is available in the base, middle and top spec models.

Being a Kia, even the entry level model the “S” is well equipped. However, as you go up the grades the level of features grows.

I’ve driven all of the engine choices over the years. For the next three weeks im driving a GT-Line hybrid version.

This comes with almost everything you could want and is a luxurious family transport.

The hybrid engine is quiet and smooth to drive. Its reasonably economical, more so around town, rather than on longer trips.

Here the diesel excels. However, the difference between these two isn’t that much to be honest. The pure petrol version isn’t that great on fuel economy and probably should be avoided as a choice.

Pricing for the Kian Carnival ranges from around $52,000 dollars through to $76,630 dollars for the Hybrid GT-Line im driving. All plus the usual costs

Over the next two weeks we will look at just what makes the Kia Carnival so popular for larger families.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

MotoringMinute Kia Carnival Video part one.

Readers can find more details about the Kia Carnival  HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Kia Carnival – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Kia Carnival – buyers could look at:

This is a popular segment: Buyers could look at: Hyundai Staria, LDV Mifa, Ford Tourneo

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Kia Carnival GT-Line HEV – search for the best mum car part one  appeared first on Motoring Minute.

This mid spec model comes with a 2.5L 4-cylinder petrol engine with Toyota Hybrid Electric System and Auto CVT. It was surprisingly responsive but not a sport SUV.

Its smooth, quiet, and economical. Our fuel use was 6.5L/100K over the week. That’s outstanding for a vehicle this size.

The Kluger has a spacious interior with plenty of room for both front and mid row seats. The third row is a little tight for knee and leg room. However, with flat folding seats the luggage area can be cavernous.

The front seats are especially comfortable. The central screen is a 12.3-inch touchscreen. There is wired Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity but no wireless charging tray. The GXL comes with the full Toyota Safety Sense system.

The Toyota Kluger has been around for a long while and remains a reliable, safe, and practical family SUV. That’s why they are so popular. Priced from around $70,400 plus the usual costs the Kluger GXL is possibly the pick of the range.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Kluger GXL AWD Hybrid HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Kluger GXL AWD Hybrid – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Kluger GXL AWD Hybrid  – buyers could look at:

This is a popular segment: Buyers could look at:  Hyundai Santa Fe,  Peugeot 5008 GT,  Mazda CX-80, Kia Sorento HEV

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Toyota Kluger GXL AWD Hybrid 2025 drive revisited appeared first on Motoring Minute.