Hyundai Santa Fe Reviews

The Hyundai Santa Fe, introduced in 2000 by the South Korean manufacturer, Hyundai, has been a prominent figure in the automotive landscape. This five-door crossover SUV, available in both front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive options, was Hyundai’s inaugural SUV offering, marking a significant milestone in the company’s evolution. Named after the picturesque city of Santa Fe, New Mexico, it swiftly gained popularity among American buyers, affirming its success as Hyundai’s first foray into the SUV market. Today, it occupies a prime spot between the Tucson and the Palisade, showcasing Hyundai’s commitment to catering to diverse consumer needs and preferences.

The Hyundai Santa Fe has journeyed through 5 distinctive generations, each marking a significant evolution in design, technology, and performance. With each generation, Hyundai has pushed the boundaries of automotive innovation, incorporating advanced safety features, cutting-edge infotainment systems, and efficient powertrains to cater to the diverse needs of modern drivers. As it enters its fifth generation, the Hyundai Santa Fe stands as a testament to Hyundai’s commitment to excellence, offering a harmonious fusion of style, substance, and sophistication.

  • First Generation (2001-2006)
  • Second Generation (2007-2012)
  • Third Generation (2013-2018)
  • Fourth Generation (2019-2023)
  • Fifth Generation (2024-Future)

Price Range: $33,950 – $48,300

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe debuts with a fresh redesign, marking the start of a new generation. Embracing a boxier aesthetic, it exudes a modern and spacious feel, further accentuated by its extended wheelbase. Inside, the minimalist interior showcases sustainable materials and cutting-edge technology, reminiscent of electric vehicles. Unlike its predecessor, this iteration now features standard three-row seating, enhancing its versatility. Positioned below the Palisade in Hyundai’s lineup, the Santa Fe offers various trims, from the well-equipped SE to the luxurious Caligraphy and rugged XRT variant. Additionally, Hyundai introduces the Santa Fe Hybrid as part of its lineup, catering to environmentally conscious drivers.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 20 mpg/Hwy 29 mpg/Comb 24 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating7
Horsepower277 @ 5800 RPM
Cargo Space79.6 cu.ft.

Price Range: $28,750 – $44,300

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe, while often overshadowed by its SUV counterparts in the Hyundai lineup, maintains its unique identity and desirable features. Positioned between the compact Tucson and the larger Palisade, this mid-size SUV offers two-row seating and a range of powertrain options. While the standard 191-hp 2.5-liter inline-four may lack excitement, there’s an optional 277-hp turbo four that we recommend for a more spirited driving experience. Both engines are available with either front- or all-wheel drive. Additionally, Hyundai offers hybrid variants of the Santa Fe, including a 226-hp hybrid setup with an impressive EPA-rated 36 mpg in the city, and a plug-in hybrid model delivering 260 horsepower and a combined 76 MPGe rating, capable of traveling up to 31 miles on electricity alone. Despite its snoozy base engine, the spacious 2023 Santa Fe offers a satisfying ride and competitive pricing, positioning itself solidly in the mid-pack of mid-size SUVs.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 25 mpg/Hwy 28 mpg/Comb 26 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower191 @ 6100 RPM
Cargo Space36.4 cu.ft.

Price Range: $28,495 – $42,705

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe is an enticing option for those seeking a mid-size crossover without the need for a third row of seats. Boasting a comfortable and spacious cabin with a premium appearance, it rightfully earns its place on our Editors’ Choice list. With four different powertrain options, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, there’s a Santa Fe to suit various preferences. While not particularly sporty, the Santa Fe offers a satisfying driving experience. Hyundai has equipped the Santa Fe with a plethora of standard driver-assistance features, and its infotainment technology is on par with competitors in its segment. Accommodating four adults comfortably across its two rows, the Santa Fe also offers ample cargo space suitable for bulky items or luggage.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 25 mpg/Hwy 28 mpg/Comb 26 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower191 @ 6100 RPM
Cargo Space36.4 cu.ft.

Price Range: $28,025 – $43,275

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe presents families with a spacious cabin, desirable amenities, and eye-catching aesthetics. With a choice between two four-cylinder engines—including a turbocharged 2.5-liter—and the option for front- or all-wheel drive, along with a hybrid powertrain variant, the Santa Fe caters to diverse preferences. Regardless of configuration, the Santa Fe provides a largely gratifying driving experience coupled with respectable fuel efficiency. Those prioritizing safety will appreciate Hyundai’s inclusion of a range of standard driver-assistance technologies, while tech enthusiasts will find the Santa Fe’s infotainment offerings impressive.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 25 mpg/Hwy 28 mpg/Comb 26 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower191 @ 6100 RPM
Cargo Space36.4 cu.ft.

Price Range: $27,450 – $39,050

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe often gets lost in the crowd of mid-size crossovers, but it shouldn’t be overlooked. This SUV offers practicality and satisfaction in abundance. With a spacious and well-equipped interior, there’s ample room for passengers and luggage alike. While it might not be the fastest or most fuel-efficient option in its class, it excels in providing a quiet and engaging driving experience. Safety is a strong suit, boasting excellent ratings, and it comes with one of the best powertrain warranties available. Despite not grabbing attention like some of its flashier competitors, the 2020 Santa Fe’s positives far outweigh any negatives.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 22 mpg/Hwy 29 mpg/Comb 25 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower185 @ 6000 RPM
Cargo Space35.9 cu.ft.

Price Range: $26,845 – $39,895

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe and its three-row counterpart, the Santa Fe XL, stand out as stylish and family-friendly crossovers, boasting a plethora of features. Previously recognized as the Santa Fe Sport, the two-row Santa Fe underwent a complete redesign for 2019. It offers a selection of two four-cylinder engines, including one turbocharged option, while the XL variant is equipped with a smooth V-6 engine. While both models deliver a relaxed and stable driving experience, they lack the athletic driving dynamics found in some competitors. Standard automated emergency braking is included in the Santa Fe, while it’s an optional feature for the XL.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 22 mpg/Hwy 29 mpg/Comb 25 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower185 @ 6000 RPM
Cargo Space35.9 cu.ft.

Price Range: $32,080 – $42,530

The 2018 Santa Fe presents a stylish departure from the more ordinary three-row crossovers. While its elegant design is undoubtedly attractive, it does come with trade-offs in terms of cargo capacity and third-row passenger space. The refined V-6 engine offers ample towing power, yet acceleration and fuel efficiency fall short compared to many competitors. Packed with features starting from the base SE trim level and progressing to luxurious options further up the model range, the Santa Fe makes a compelling case for its value proposition.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 18 mpg/Hwy 25 mpg/Comb 21 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating7
Horsepower290 @ 6400 RPM
Cargo Space80.0 cu.ft.

Price Range: $32,000 – $42,700

The three-row crossover stands as a cornerstone of American family life, offering a plethora of options to choose from. Hyundai’s Santa Fe distinguishes itself with its elegant styling, yet it does necessitate compromises in cargo capacity and third-row passenger space. While its V-6 powertrain delivers towing capability, it falls short in terms of acceleration and fuel efficiency compared to competitors. Despite this, the largest Hyundai SUV comes well-appointed even in its base SE trim, with luxury readily accessible through additional options. While its infotainment and active safety features may not be as cutting-edge as newer rivals, many buyers find the Santa Fe’s value, extensive warranty coverage, aesthetics, and overall comfort sufficient to offset these drawbacks.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 18 mpg/Hwy 25 mpg/Comb 21 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating7
Horsepower290 @ 6400 RPM
Cargo Space80.0 cu.ft.

Price Range: $31,545 – $35,645

In 2016, the Hyundai Santa Fe, a 7-passenger crossover SUV, sees minor changes: the GLS trim is now the SE, and the saddle interior option is dropped. The Limited trim gains Hyundai’s Smart Liftgate as standard. With its sleek exterior, spacious interior, and powerful V6 engine, the 2016 Santa Fe competes well against its rivals. It matches the new Honda Pilot’s towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and comes with Hyundai’s impressive 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, making it a compelling choice in the crowded SUV market.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 18 mpg/Hwy 25 mpg/Comb 21 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating7
Horsepower290 @ 6400 RPM
Cargo Space80.0 cu.ft.

Price Range: $31,250 – $35,350

In 2015, Hyundai enhances its Santa Fe crossover SUV with upgrades to the driver-selectable power-steering unit and revised front bushings. Additionally, new standard features like daytime running lights and a driver’s-side blind-spot side mirror are introduced, with an optional Hands-Free Smart Liftgate with Auto Open also available.

Amidst the crowded market of 3-row family crossover SUVs, Hyundai presents its impressive Santa Fe midsize SUV for 2015. Boasting sophisticated styling surpassing the Honda Pilot and interior features that outshine rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Chevrolet Traverse, the Santa Fe offers seating for seven, a spacious cargo bay, optional all-wheel drive (AWD), and one of the segment’s most potent V6 engines. With competitive pricing and an unbeatable standard warranty, Hyundai’s 2015 Santa Fe SUV continues to elevate its value proposition, posing a formidable challenge to its competitors.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 18 mpg/Hwy 25 mpg/Comb 21 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating7
Horsepower290 @ 6400 RPM
Cargo Space80.0 cu.ft.

Price Range: $30,880 – $34,780

In 2014, the Hyundai Santa Fe enters the arena against formidable rivals like the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Nissan Pathfinder. As an extended version of the popular Santa Fe Sport, the 7-passenger Santa Fe offers ample interior space, a comprehensive list of standard comfort and safety features, and boasts the most potent V6 engine in its class. Available with front- or all-wheel drive (FWD, AWD), the Santa Fe matches its competitors feature for feature, with the exception of a DVD entertainment system, all while maintaining a slightly lower price point. Despite its affordability, Hyundai ensures no compromise in quality, evident in the Santa Fe’s attractive interior design and refined styling.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 18 mpg/Hwy 25 mpg/Comb 21 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating7
Horsepower290 @ 6400 RPM
Cargo Space80.0 cu.ft.

Price Range: $29,205 – $33,945

The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe marks a significant update in the SUV lineup. Competing in a tough segment against stalwarts like the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer, as well as newcomers like the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder, requires top performance. The new Santa Fe, an extended version of the 2-row Santa Fe Sport, steps up with enhanced space, three rows of seating accommodating six or seven passengers, standard V6 power, and a comprehensive array of standard and optional features. With options for front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive, the 2013 Santa Fe, available in GLS (base) and Limited (upscale) trims, maintains Hyundai’s tradition of offering competitive pricing while delivering on style, comfort, and quality both inside and out.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 18 mpg/Hwy 25 mpg/Comb 21 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating7
Horsepower290 @ 6400 RPM
Cargo Space80.0 cu.ft.

Price Range: $24,245 – $30,050

Initially positioned as a budget-friendly yet well-appointed alternative to compact SUVs, the Hyundai Santa Fe has evolved over the years while staying true to its original purpose. In 2012, the Hyundai Santa Fe compact SUV underwent significant changes, shedding its quirky styling for a more refined and upscale appearance. While it may no longer be compact in size, the Santa Fe remains ideal for urban commutes and family outings, offering ample space for cargo and passengers alike. Although lacking a third-row seat, the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe impresses with its array of standard and optional features, solid fuel efficiency, and an exceptional 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty, making it a compelling choice for those in the market for a compact SUV.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 18 mpg/Hwy 25 mpg/Comb 21 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating7
Horsepower290 @ 6400 RPM
Cargo Space80.0 cu.ft.

Price Range: $24,135 – $29,790

The 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe remains largely unchanged, continuing to offer its popular and well-equipped features. One notable addition is the inclusion of solar glass as a standard feature, enhancing both aesthetics and practicality. Additionally, the Limited trim level receives a significant upgrade with the introduction of a high-quality 605-watt Infinity Logic 7 Surround Sound AM/FM/CD-changer/MP3 audio system. This system boasts 10 speakers, including a subwoofer, and an external amplifier, ensuring an immersive audio experience for passengers. Furthermore, the 2011 model year introduces five new color options, allowing buyers to personalize their Santa Fe to suit their preferences. Overall, these updates enhance the appeal of the 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe, maintaining its reputation as a well-equipped and versatile SUV option.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 20 mpg/Hwy 28 mpg/Comb 23 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower175 @ 6000 RPM
Cargo Space78.2 cu.ft.

Price Range: $23,985 – $29,390

The 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe underwent significant updates, including enhancements to its interior amenities, exterior styling adjustments, and the introduction of new powertrain options. The most notable changes included the addition of a four-cylinder engine and a more potent V6, both paired with six-speed transmissions. These new powertrains not only provided improved performance but also delivered better fuel efficiency compared to previous models. With these upgrades, the 2010 Santa Fe offered a refreshed driving experience while maintaining its reputation for reliability and practicality in the SUV market.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 20 mpg/Hwy 28 mpg/Comb 23 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower175 @ 6000 RPM
Cargo Space78.2 cu.ft.

Price Range: $23,940 – $31,295

In 2009, Hyundai made notable updates to the Santa Fe lineup, focusing on enhancing the audio systems across all trim levels. All Santa Fe models received improved audio systems featuring USB and iPod inputs, catering to the growing demand for connectivity and convenience. Additionally, the SE Touring trim received added features such as a power driver’s seat and Homelink, further enhancing comfort and convenience for drivers. These upgrades reflected Hyundai’s commitment to providing modern amenities and technology in their vehicles, ensuring that the Santa Fe remained competitive in its segment.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 18 mpg/Hwy 24 mpg/Comb 20 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower185 @ 6000 RPM
Cargo Space78.2 cu.ft.

Price Range: $23,740 – $31,090

In 2008, Hyundai made significant enhancements to the Limited trim of the Santa Fe model. The Limited trim now came standard with a premium 605-watt Infinity Logic 7 Surround Sound audio system, providing an immersive audio experience for passengers. Additionally, a power tilt-and-slide sunroof was included as a standard feature, offering an open-air driving experience and enhancing the overall luxury feel of the vehicle. For those seeking advanced navigation capabilities, a new optional LG navigation unit was made available, providing drivers with convenient and reliable navigation assistance on their journeys. These updates aimed to elevate the driving experience and offer additional comfort and convenience features for Santa Fe owners, further solidifying the model’s appeal in the competitive SUV market.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 18 mpg/Hwy 24 mpg/Comb 20 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower185 @ 6000 RPM
Cargo Space78.2 cu.ft.

Price Range: $24,795 – $26,595

In 2007, Hyundai introduced several notable updates to the mid-size Santa Fe SUV. One significant addition was the optional third-row seat, providing greater versatility and accommodating additional passengers when needed. The exterior design underwent a transformation, departing from the swooshy styling of the previous Santa Fe and adopting a cleaner, more masculine appearance, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, Hyundai bolstered the Santa Fe’s safety features by including Electronic Stability Control and six airbags as standard equipment, prioritizing driver and passenger safety on the road. These enhancements reflected Hyundai’s commitment to continuous improvement and ensuring that the Santa Fe remained competitive in its segment by offering enhanced comfort, versatility, and safety features to drivers and passengers alike.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 18 mpg/Hwy 24 mpg/Comb 20 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower185 @ 6000 RPM
Cargo Space78.2 cu.ft.

Price Range: $23,795 – $26,495

In its final year of production, the 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe underwent a few subtle changes. The color palette underwent revisions, with two colors, Merlot and Canyon Red, discontinued. To replace them, a rare color known as Dark Emerald Green was introduced midway through the year. Interestingly, this hue was not featured in any sales brochures and could only be obtained through dealership orders, adding an element of exclusivity. Additionally, there was a significant update to the trim level naming convention, as the LX trim was renamed ‘Limited’ and adorned with a corresponding tailgate badge, marking a first for the Santa Fe lineup. Another notable introduction was the availability of a monochromatic paint scheme, departing from the previously standard contrasting gray cladding. However, this option was exclusively offered on the Limited model and limited to the color black, adding a touch of sophistication to the Santa Fe’s exterior design.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 15 mpg/Hwy 21 mpg/Comb 17 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower200 @ 5500 RPM
Cargo Space77.7 cu.ft.

Price Range: $23,594 – $26,594

The 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe underwent its final facelift, receiving several noteworthy updates. The grille, tail lights, and rear bumper were redesigned, giving the SUV a refreshed appearance. Inside the cabin, changes were made to the instrument cluster, with the speedometer now capable of indicating speeds up to 140 mph (225 km/h), an increase from the previous limit of 130 mph. Additionally, the driver’s sun visor was enhanced with a better-designed toll ticket slot, improving convenience for drivers. Both sun visors were extended to provide better sun coverage from the side. Notably, the base Santa Fe model was discontinued during this update, paving the way for the introduction of the Tucson model in Hyundai’s lineup.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 15 mpg/Hwy 21 mpg/Comb 17 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower200 @ 5500 RPM
Cargo Space77.7 cu.ft.

Price Range: $18,589 – $26,089

In 2004, Hyundai’s Santa Fe continued its successful run, maintaining strong sales figures. Although the model saw minimal changes, it remained a popular choice among consumers. Minor revisions were made to the manual climate controls in the base GL and mid-line GLS variants, enhancing user experience. Additionally, a notable update was the standardization of the remote keyless entry confirmation ‘chirp’ feature, activated by pressing the ‘LOCK’ button on the remote twice. These subtle enhancements added to the overall appeal and convenience of the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe, contributing to its continued success in the market.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 18 mpg/Hwy 25 mpg/Comb 21 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower138 @ 5500 RPM
Cargo Space77.7 cu.ft.

Price Range: $17,894 – $24,394

In 2003, Hyundai addressed various customer concerns and suggestions regarding the Santa Fe model. One notable improvement was the introduction of the 3.5-liter V6 engine alongside the existing gas engine options. This larger engine not only provided more power but also featured a computer-controlled four-wheel-drive system and a 5-speed automatic transmission, enhancing overall performance and drivability. Additionally, Hyundai implemented changes such as replacing the bonnet prop with gas struts for easier access, adding a light to the glove compartment for improved convenience, and enhancing the sound system. The mid-level GLS model now boasted a standard Monsoon high-performance sound system, while the top-tier LX variant came equipped with a 6-disc CD changer, enhancing the overall driving experience and addressing customer feedback effectively.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 18 mpg/Hwy 25 mpg/Comb 21 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower138 @ 5500 RPM
Cargo Space77.7 cu.ft.

Price Range: $17,694 – $24,794

The 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe saw minimal changes, with the most noticeable being the relocation of the V6 emblem to a higher position on the tailgate. Additionally, in February of that year, Hyundai restyled the center dash vents and buttons, as well as relocated the clock from its previous overhead map light assembly to the center dash. These adjustments aimed to enhance the interior layout and functionality of the Santa Fe. Despite these minor updates, demand for the Santa Fe remained strong, although Hyundai received feedback from owners suggesting further improvements to the vehicle.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 18 mpg/Hwy 25 mpg/Comb 21 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower149 @ 5500 RPM
Cargo Space77.7 cu.ft.

Price Range: $20,234 – $22,434

The 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe offered customers a choice between two engine and transmission configurations. In North America, drivers could opt for a fuel-efficient 2.4 L four-cylinder engine paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Alternatively, a more powerful 2,656 cc (2.656 L; 162.1 cu in) Delta V6 engine was available exclusively with the automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive came standard, with the option of traction control with the V6, while 4WD was available as an upgrade. Outside the United States, Australian models of the Santa Fe, which debuted in November 2000, initially featured a 2.7L V6 engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, with 4WD as a standard feature. Later in 2001, a more economical 2.4L four-cylinder engine was introduced to the lineup, but it was exclusively available with a manual transmission.

Specifications

Fuel EconomyCity 19 mpg/Hwy 26 mpg/Comb 22 mpg
Fuel TypeGas
Basic Warranty5 years or 60000 miles
Max Seating5
Horsepower149 @ 5500 RPM
Cargo Space77.7 cu.ft.