Tag: SUV

Table of Contents

• Introduction: A Reliable Mid-Sized SUV Contender
• 2018 Hyundai Tucson Highlander
• Comparing Trim Levels: Go, ActiveX, Elite & Highlander
• Pricing & Value: Is a Used Tucson a Smart Buy?
• Safety & Tech: Does It Still Feel Modern?
• Practicality: Space, Comfort, and Family Suitability
• Engine & Performance: Which Powertrain Holds Up Best?
• 2018 Hyundai Tucson Highlander

Introduction: A Reliable Mid-Sized SUV Contender

Since its 2015 launch, the Hyundai Tucson TL-series has been regarded as a cozy and well-rounded competitor in the medium-SUV market.We examine the 2018 ‘final’ refresh upgrade for Tucson purchasers who are not new.

A near-new car is more sensible for some consumers than a brand-new one. We’re going back in time to examine what a “new-used” car that’s still covered under warranty looked like when it first came out of the dealership.

The three-year-old Tucson has only undergone a small cosmetic alteration, defying Hyundai’s recent trend of producing eye-catching next-generation cars.

Sales of its mainstay SUV model should continue to be robust, but mid-life cycle updates are rarely revolutionary, and the mid-size SUV market is highly competitive.

But looks are crucial, and this upgrade checks off most of the necessary boxes with its sharper style, slight drivetrain changes, and a few new technological additions.

2018 Hyundai Tucson Highlander

Comparing Trim Levels: Go, ActiveX, Elite & Highlander

Although the series is still available in four different model grades, the ActiveX above it doesn’t seem like such a small improvement because the entry-level Active is now known as the Go. The most luxurious Elite and Highlander trims remain at the top of the lineup.

The base 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, which produces torque earlier than previously, the 2.0-liter turbo diesel with a new eight-speed automatic transmission, and the slightly less potent 1.6-liter turbo gasoline engine, which is exclusive to Elite and Highlander model grades, are the three remaining engine options.

The chassis has undergone additional local tuning to locate the sweet spot on our roads, even though the drivetrains are still comparable or the same as before, offering a variety of six-speed manual, automatic, and seven-speed dual-clutch transmissions.

Beginning with the Go, which receives a 7.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a reversing camera, fabric inside decor, manually adjusted seats, automatic LED headlights, and 17-inch steel wheels, the company is expanding its updates to include improvements to basic equipment.

Pricing & Value: Is a Used Tucson a Smart Buy?

In addition to a larger 8.0-infotainment display, rear parking sensors, leather upholstery, an Infinity eight-speaker sound system, and a rear seat USB port, the ActiveX, the previous best-selling model, now has nicer-looking 17-inch alloy wheels. The Go with a manual transmission starts at $28,150 including on-road expenses. Choosing an automatic adds $2500, and the ActiveX grade costs an additional $700.

At the top of the tree, the Elite comes with a Smart Sense pack as standard, along with other features like a power driver’s seat, rain-sensing wipers, tinted windows, a luggage net in the back, chrome accents throughout, and 18-inch alloy wheels.

With 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charging, a motorized passenger seat, a heated steering wheel, twin-tip exhaust outlets, and heated and ventilated front seats, the Highlander goes above and beyond. The vehicles’ starting prices, when new in 2018, are $37,850 and $46,500, respectively, with an automatic transmission.

Safety & Tech: Does It Still Feel Modern?

Both lack the required AEB and five-star ANCAP certification, but the Smart Sense pack is an available for $2200 (all costs stated are from new, in 2018).

Additionally, the package includes automatic high-beam assistance, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic collision warning.

Practicality: Space, Comfort, and Family Suitability

A floating infotainment tablet is consistent with the brand’s most recent models, and new features like a wireless mobile phone charging pad, rear USB port, and heated steering wheel keep the model competitive with rival kits, even though it looks similar on the outside. The Tucson’s second row is spacious enough for children and infant seats, although it is not as comfortable for adults as some of its mid-size competitors.

The driver’s seat still has a wide range of adjustability and the front pews still feel airy, while the boot is still a reasonable size for this class at 488 liters. Although 10-year map update-supported satellite navigation is included, the infotainment system is simple to use and conveniently located for touch input. It is also enhanced with basic Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connection.

The trick with model grades is that while the ActiveX, which costs a little more, comes with leather, the most expensive Highlander is the first to have electric passenger seat adjustment. However, that model also has heated and ventilated seats and, for the first time, a heated steering wheel.

As usual, local tuning plays a big part in the Tucson’s success in Australia by making it seem “right” on our varied roads. Our local launch drive included a wide range of terrain, including twisty dirt, tiny town maneuvers, and highway roads—a little bit of everything a traveling family or wandering couple could encounter. The Tucson continues to impress on the road with a smooth ride and excellent body control.

Engine & Performance: Which Powertrain Holds Up Best?

Although the ride is smooth and has outstanding bump absorption, there is underlying athletic stability that endures when exerting force. With only larger bumps feeling a little brittle across the front wheels, elite vehicles with 18-inch alloys and a 1.6-liter turbocharged powertrain offered the ideal combination of performance, appearance, and comfort. Although the base 2.0-liter GDI engine lacks the turbo’s energy and won’t enjoy towing a loaded car, it is similar to the turbo motor in that it makes driving easier and more natural by shifting into sport mode early on.

When driving in traffic, the dual-clutch automatic, which is solely coupled to the 1.6-liter turbo, was smooth in town but twice felt sluggish to shift into first gear.

Although the 2.0-liter diesel engine has the fastest claimed 0-100 km/h time of 6.4 seconds, it is the noisiest of the group and doesn’t feel as spritely low down as the turbocharged petrol.

2018 Hyundai Tucson Highlander

Both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive systems are paired with engines, and while both offer adequate traction, all-wheel drive is inherently better at handling on slick conditions.

As anticipated for a mid-life cycle update, the Tucson only receives minor enhancements and a new look to stay current, but adding AEB from the base—or at the very least, the second-tier ActiveX—would significantly increase its value in comparison to its main competitors.

Everything else is going according to plan, and the Tucson is still a fantastic drive and an excellent value.

Table of Contents

• Summry
• Cost and Choosing Which to Purchase
• motor, gearbox, horsepower, and, top speed
• Fuel Economy
• Cargo, Comfort, inside and Interior
• Safety

Summry

The Hyundai Santa Fe for 2016 is the same as it was the year before. The SE is the new moniker for the base GLS trim level.

The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe provides a compelling combination of power, comfort, and style while receiving less attention than some other three-row crossover SUVs. Its tendency to be less expensive than the well-known brands may also influence your choice.

It is not a clear choice for buyers looking for a crossover SUV with three rows of seats, such as the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe. It is neither the largest nor the newest model in its price category, and it lacks the name recognition and track record of other crossover class possibilities. However, there are valid reasons to think about the Santa Fe.

Most of these reasons become clear once you step inside the car, as is typically the case with family crossovers. Even though Hyundai’s crossover can only accommodate seven passengers (some competitors can accommodate eight), the front two rows provide plenty of head and legroom. Adults with a sense of humor can make it through short journeys to dinner, but it’s best to leave the two-passenger third-row seat to the primary school population. Aside from that, the Santa Fe’s cabin has a nice atmosphere because of its neat, appealing design, remarkably luxurious materials, and easy-to-use controls. Even if you’re confused by the apps on your smartphone, you’ll be able to navigate the available touchscreen interface.


The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe’s standard V6 engine is another appealing feature. Both acceleration and towing capacity are above average thanks to this powerful yet quiet engine. If you test-drive every vehicle in this class, you’ll probably discover that the 2016 Santa Fe is not as smooth or refined as its more recent rivals, who steer a little more precisely. However, this Hyundai can satisfy your needs if your primary goal is an easy-to-drive crossover that travels quickly on the interstate.

Naturally, you should consider all of your possibilities before choosing one. The updated 2016 Honda Pilot and the highly acclaimed (‘ “A”-rated) Toyota Highlander are the clear leaders in the three-row crossover class. Though larger families would choose the Pilot’s roomier third row, both are remarkable eight-passenger cars that are sure to check every box on your list and then some. With its enormous cargo space, the Chevrolet Traverse is another excellent option. We also appreciate the recently updated Kia Sorento and the wagon-like Ford Flex. We still believe the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe is a well-made crossover that provides excellent value for families, despite the fact that it lacks any notable benefits over these competitors.

Cost and Choosing Which to Purchase

motor, gearbox, horsepower, and, top speed

A 3.3-liter V6 engine that generates 290 horsepower and 252 pound-feet of torque powers the Santa Fe. You can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive on both trim levels, and a six-speed automatic transmission is standard.


An AWD Santa Fe Limited with the Ultimate package reached 60 mph from zero in 7.7 seconds, which is a respectable time for its class, according to Edmunds testing. The Santa Fe can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly outfitted.

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency estimates from the EPA are 20 mpg combined (18 city/24 highway) with AWD and 21 mpg combined (18 city/25 highway) with front-wheel drive. Compared to its base versions, the heavier Ultimate-package cars have a 1-2 mpg lower rating.

Cargo, Comfort, inside and Interior

The cabin of the current generation Santa Fe remains unique in the three-row crossover class, despite the fact that it has been on the market for a few years. This is mostly because of its excellent construction, well-considered control layout, and strikingly large first two rows. The menus and features of the available 8-inch touchscreen are as user-friendly as they come, and the switchgear is neatly arranged and readable.

With ample adjustability to fit drivers of all sizes, the front chairs are cozy for lengthy trips. Even with the optional panoramic sunroof installed, second-row occupants will enjoy the spacious cabin, which offers a large range of recline angles and plenty of head and legroom. The third-row seat is accessible and of a reasonable size for children and teenagers. Although some other three-row crossovers offer better comfort and third-row headroom, adults will also be fine in an emergency.


The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe has a capacity of 41 cubic feet for freight and luggage behind the second row of seats. That amount increases to 80 cubic feet when the second row is folded, but it only decreases to 13.5 cubic feet behind the third row when every seat is occupied. Though larger cars like the Pilot and Traverse offer greater useful space behind the third-row seat, this is comparable to what the Toyota Highlander delivers.

Safety

All 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe models come equipped with antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, side curtain airbags, front seat active head restraints, and front seat side airbags as standard safety equipment. A rearview camera and Hyundai’s emergency telematics system, Blue Link, which offers features like geo-fencing, emergency help, remote access, and theft recovery, are also included as standard.

Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts and rear parking sensors are available options. It should be noted that the Santa Fe lacks electronic safety features such as a frontal collision mitigation system and a lane departure warning system.

The Santa Fe received the second-lowest “Marginal” rating in the small-overlap frontal-offset test and the highest “Good” rating in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset, side-impact, and roof-strength tests in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s crash testing. It received a “Good” rating for whiplash protection in rear crashes due to its seat/head restraint arrangement.

A Santa Fe Limited stopped in 125 feet during Edmunds braking testing, which is typical for this market.

With a 5-star ANCAP safety certification, the Hyundai Santa Fe 2016 is a seven-seat SUV.
Depending on the model badge, its fuel efficiency ranges from 6.3L/100km to 10.5L/100km for a diesel or gasoline engine.
Depending on how it is set up, the rear space can grow. Its storage capacity ranges from 516L to 1615L.
Intervals of service

Table of Contents

• Summary
• Cost and Choosing Which to Purchase
• motor, gearbox, horsepower, and top speed
• Capacity for Payload and Towing
• Fuel Economy
• Cargo, Comfort, Inside, and Interior
• Safety

Summary

Few automakers possess Hyundai’s quiet confidence, and the plus-sized Palisade is the best example of that in its lineup.

This SUV upended one of the most significant market segments right away by taking the battle straight to its competitors. Its many features, abundance of power, and design make it a popular option for people movers of this size.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade keeps pushing upscale with its premium content and matching pricing, thanks to slight stylistic and technological changes. Fortunately, it continues to do its duties and does so with sufficient quality to offer solid value in a crowded field of three rows.

Cost and Choosing Which to Purchase

Those who have been monitoring the Palisade’s pricing since its inception a few years ago, and with good reason, will experience some sticker shock. This three-row is now thousands of dollars more expensive than it was previously, even excluding the cheapest front-wheel-drive model that was dropped in favor of a full all-wheel-drive selection.

The streamlined lineup, which now offers three trim levels—Preferred, Urban, and Ultimate Calligraphy—is also to blame. However, in addition to foregoing the previous entry-level Essential trim, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade Preferred has a starting price of $47,799 plus a $1,975 non-negotiable freight fee. That is $7,300 more than the first point of entry and $2,300 more than the identical trim cost at launch.

The range-topping Ultimate Calligraphy costs $56,599 before extras, while the Urban trim, which essentially replaces the previous Luxury version, starts at $52,999 before freight and tax ($53,499 with second-row captain’s seats). Regardless of trim, any paint color other than white costs $250.

Regardless of the model you select, the 2019 Tucson is a fantastic value because it is more feature-rich and less expensive than the majority of its competitors. The mid-range SEL offers the best value in the lineup. It adds features including a rear-seat USB port, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a more flamboyant external design. All Tucson models come with front-wheel drive as standard, while all-wheel drive is an option.

motor, gearbox, horsepower, and top speed

Passing on sections of single-lane highway is as easy as it gets thanks to the Palisade’s 3.8L V6 engine’s ample torque and its eight-speed automatic transmission, which responds quickly to unexpected throttle input. With a progressive build-up towards the peak of 262 lb-ft at 5,200 rpm, torque is crucial for moving the amount of tonnage this SUV can.

Capacity for Payload and Towing

Most likely, people who are looking for an SUV of this size are doing so because they require the room it provides. Although there are other options that perform better in that area, if that is the case, the Palisade is a good choice. For example, there is the enormous Volkswagen Atlas, and another giant in the class is the Buick Enclave.

Despite its well-utilized proportions and ample space for tiny objects, this Hyundai is not small. The third row, which won’t be much use to anyone older than preadolescence, is where the Palisade is notably crowded in comparison to its competitors and beyond. Even young children are likely to find the approximately 1,092-mm (43-in) bench on the small side, despite the fact that it is theoretically designed to hold three passengers across.

In this sense, rather than the VW Atlas, which is at the top of the segment, the Palisade feels more like the GMC Acadia, which is near the bottom. Nonetheless, it delivers competitive towing capability for the class thanks to its 2,268 kg (5,000 lb) pulling capacity, auto-leveling rear suspension, and a unique tow mode that maximizes the powertrain’s performance. With 509 L when all seats are upright and 1,297 L when the third row is folded, the cargo space is also enough.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is mediocre for the sector given the Palisade’s size and standard all-wheel drive; its stated combined figure of 11.2 is better than the 10.1 L/100 km consumed during a 210-kilometer initial test drive. The GMC Acadia, Nissan Pathfinder, and Honda Pilot have somewhat higher ratings than their V6-powered rivals, the Atlas and Enclave. In the meantime, the svelte and fashionable Subaru Ascent and Mazda CX-9, which are powered by four-cylinder turbocharged engines, are even better.

Cargo, Comfort, Inside, and Interior

It seems smooth both in town and on the highway, even though the handling does not adequately reflect the weight of this three-row. Even with the 20-inch wheels that come standard on all models, it handles uneven terrain nicely. With sophisticated adaptive suspension technologies, the Palisade outperforms several expensive competitors in terms of ride quality. Even with its all-season tires, this tester produced a notable amount of tire noise on smooth roads, but it’s also fairly quiet.

This range-topping tester’s upholstery feels mediocre, even though it is advertised as premium Nappa leather—a somewhat arbitrary phrase, it should be noted. Even while the chairs themselves are attractive, the non-perforated sections are particularly unimpressive. Additionally, the driver’s seat now has pseudo-massage capabilities, and the front and second rows are heated and ventilated.

With a huge grille that integrates its signal lights similarly to the smaller Tucson crossover and the Santa Cruz truck that is based on it, the 2023 Palisade adds an aggressive appearance reminiscent of Lexus. It is less slab-sided than it would otherwise be thanks to simple crease lines, and the new wheels on the top trim appear to have been taken straight from Lincoln’s lineup.

A huge 12.3-inch touchscreen serves as the interior’s new focal point, and the air vents have been redesigned, but other than that, not much has changed. Although the console controls aren’t very appealing, that’s generally okay, especially in the top-tier Ultimate Calligraphy trim, which takes the biggest steps toward the middle ground between mainstream and luxury entrants.

Safety

The standard equipment includes a comprehensive advanced safety suite that includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control that works in stop-and-go traffic, and a junction turn assist system that can warn of oncoming traffic when making a left-hand turn.

In addition to Hyundai’s highway driving aid, which automates steering inputs but still requires two hands on the wheel, the Urban trim adds blind-view monitoring, which offers a real-time view of both sides of the car when the associated signal is activated. The Ultimate Calligraphy also receives a more sophisticated version of the drive-assist technology that can change lanes automatically when the signal is triggered, in addition to a camera-based rearview mirror and head-up display.

But there’s a contradiction in the way everything operates. At the first sign of driver input, the system will stop automated lane changes and remind drivers to keep both hands on the wheel when trying to feather it. Even yet, turning off those features without losing adaptive cruise or lane-keeping capabilities is manageable.

Table of Contents

• Summary
• 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe
• 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe trim
• motor, gearbox, horsepower, and, top speed
• Fuel Economy
• Cargo, Comfort, inside and Interior
• Hyundai Santa Fe 2017 Technology and Stuff
• 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe headlights
• 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited
• option packages

Summary

In the seven-passenger crossover market, some cars are recognized as category leaders. The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe comes next. However, you should not discount an SUV based on a car just because it lacks the name familiarity of some of its more well-known rivals. The Hyundai Santa Fe is actually worth giving careful thought to because of its many advantages.

The Santa Fe’s remarkable value for the money is one of its main draws. Even the base SE model comes equipped with desirable extras like satellite radio, dual-zone automatic climate control, alloy wheels, dazzling LED daytime running lights, and a rearview camera. With some careful tinkering, the 3.3-liter V6 powertrain also manages to get about 1 mpg this year.


Additionally, buyers seeking the newest safety features and high-tech amenities won’t be let down. While adaptive cruise control with automated braking, lane departure warning, and a 360-degree video system are available as options, blind spot warning with rear traffic alert and lane change assist are standard on higher trim levels.

2017 Hyundai Santa Fe

The Santa Fe’s only drawbacks are its smaller third-row seat and lower load capacity when compared to some of its rivals. The Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-9, and Chevrolet Traverse are some of the other best seven-passenger crossover options. However, we believe that the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe still has a lot to offer, even when compared to these more well-known crossovers.

Antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, side curtain airbags, front seat active head restraints, and front seat side airbags are among the standard safety features of the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe. A rearview camera and Hyundai’s emergency telematics system, Blue Link, which offers features like geo-fencing, emergency help, remote access, and theft recovery, are also included as standard.

2017 Hyundai Santa Fe trim

The Limited and both Ultimate variants come equipped with rear parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts as standard features. The Ultimate trims come with the option of a frontal collision prevention system (with pedestrian detection) and a lane departure warning system.

The Santa Fe received a top “Good” rating in the frontal-offset, side-impact, roof-strength, and seat/head restraint (whiplash protection) crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Additionally, it received a top “Superior” rating for its optional frontal collision prevention system.

A Santa Fe Limited stopped in 125 feet during Edmunds braking testing, which is a little longer than typical for this class.

motor, gearbox, horsepower, and, top speed

The 3.3-liter V6 engine that powers the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe generates 290 horsepower and 252 pound-feet of torque. All trim levels come with a six-speed automatic transmission with the option of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe feels calm when viewed from behind the wheel. On the road, confidence is bolstered by precise steering and solid, predictable handling. Additionally, the suspension provides the smooth ride you would anticipate from a crossover built on a car. Its calm driving style is further enhanced by the absence of annoying wind and road noise.

The 3.3-liter V6 engine that comes standard offers enough of acceleration without any problems. The six-speed automatic transmission, which offers seamless shifts in a range of circumstances, reflects this feeling of elegance.

Fuel Economy

The Santa Fe fuel efficiency estimates from the EPA are 20 mpg combined (18 city/24 highway) with AWD and 21 mpg combined (18 city/25 highway) with front-wheel drive. Compared to its base versions, the heavier SE Ultimate and Limited Ultimate vehicles have ratings that are 1-2 mpg lower.

Cargo, Comfort, inside and Interior

The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe’s interior is a stunning example of design. It is one of the most comfortable and manageable models in the crossover market because to its excellent materials, stylish design, and practical, user-friendly control system, which includes both virtual and physical buttons on the touchscreens and dash buttons.

The first and second rows of seats feel spacious, which further contributes to their accommodating nature. With a large range of adjustment, the front seats are comfortable. They have a good amount of head and legroom because the seats in the second row glide forward and backward and recline. Although other competitors are superior in this area, the typical third row is suitable for children and teenagers and can even fit adults in an emergency.

The seats in the second and third rows may be pulled down to create 80 cubic feet of space. freight capacity decreases to 41 cubic feet when the second row is occupied; when the third row seats are used, freight capacity drops to a relatively tiny 13.5 cubic feet. The included “smart” hands-free rear liftgate makes it easy to get that cargo in and out; all you have to do is stand behind the car for a few seconds while holding the key fob in your pocket or handbag.

An AWD Santa Fe Limited Ultimate tested by Edmunds reached 60 mph from 0 to 7 mph in 7.7 seconds, which is typical for its class. The Santa Fe can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly outfitted.

Hyundai Santa Fe 2017 Technology and Stuff

There are four model levels available for the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe, a midsize crossover SUV with room for six or seven passengers: SE, Limited, SE Ultimate, and Limited Ultimate. A separate assessment is given to the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, a smaller car with five seats.

2017 Hyundai Santa Fe headlights

Automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights, heated outside mirrors, roof rack side rails, dark-tinted rear privacy glass, a rear spoiler, dual-zone automatic climate control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, an eight-way power driver seat (with four-way power lumbar), a sliding 40/20/40-split second-row bench seat, and a two-person third-row seat are all standard on the base SE.

A 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, a rearview camera, Hyundai’s Blue Link system, smartphone connectivity for Android Auto, and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player and satellite/HD radio are all included.

2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited

The Limited model has LED taillights, keyless entry and ignition, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a hands-free power rear liftgate, blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, leather upholstery, outside mirrors with built-in turn signals, and captain’s chairs instead of the second-row bench seat, bringing the seating capacity down to six.

19-inch alloy wheels, a 360-degree multiview camera system, a panoramic sunroof, rear parking sensors, keyless entry and ignition, a six-way power front passenger seat, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, driver memory settings, a navigation system, and an Infinity surround-sound audio system with an 8-inch touchscreen display are all added to the SE Ultimate and Limited Ultimate offshoot models.

option packages

Only two option packages are offered. A Premium package for the SE includes a third-row USB port, manual side window sunshades, and LED foglights in addition to several of the features found in the SE Ultimate model. An Ultimate Tech package adds adaptive xenon headlights, automatic high-beam control, adaptive cruise control with automated emergency braking, lane departure warning, and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold to the SE Ultimate or Limited Ultimate.

Table of Contents

• introduction
• Cost and Choosing Which to Purchase
• motor, gearbox, horsepower, and, top speed
• Capacity for Payload and Towing
• Fuel Economy
• Cargo, Comfort, inside and Interior
  • Related: 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe: In-Depth Review
  • Related: 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe: Key Features and Improvements
  • Related:Hyundai Santa Fe Best Hybrid Trim 2025: The Ultimate Guide
  • Related: Hyundai Santa Fe History: From 2000 to Today’s Modern SUV
  • Related: 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe Review: Specs, Price,performance
  • Related:2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Review: A Versatile SUV with Comfort and Style

introduction

Although the initial shock of its boxy shape has somewhat subsided, the futuristic look of the Santa Fe SUV continues to be a divisive statement.

Whatever your thoughts, it’s undeniable that the modern Santa Fe’s large tailboard opening, spacious cargo room, and three-row, seven-passenger capacity help it target its target family market.

The Santa Fe’s powerful weight is moved by a 2.5-liter inline-four turbocharged engine with 277 horsepower and an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which yet manages to achieve an EPA-recommended city fuel efficiency of 20 mpg.

We analyze the fuel economy of the Santa Fe Hybrid separately. We adjust the ride to prioritize comfort over reckless driving, and the interior boasts contemporary style and technology, combining usefulness with ingenious details.

The Santa Fe takes a risk with its looks, but it still meets all the needs for a useful and flexible mid-size SUV in a market that is already pretty full of them, with big names like the Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Kia Telluride.

Cost and Choosing Which to Purchase

Depending on the model and options, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe may cost anywhere from $35,775 to $48,325. In our opinion, the SEL strikes the ideal balance within the lineup.

A small price increase over the base SE gets you body-color folding side mirrors, roof rails, dual-zone HVAC with air vents in the third row, wireless device charging, heated front seats (with eight-way power adjustment for the driver), and a few other features. With the exception of the XRT, which comes with AWD as standard, installing all-wheel drive costs $1715.

motor, gearbox, horsepower, and, top speed

Every nonhybrid Santa Fe has a 2.5-liter inline-four turbocharged engine that produces 277 horsepower and 311 pound (0.14 t)-feet of torque.

All-wheel drive is an option, although front-wheel drive and an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic are standard.

The gearbox may behave sluggishly at low speeds, as we have already mentioned.

Only the harshest impacts enter the cabin because the suspension setup prioritizes a comfortable, gentle ride.

Despite the fact that the steering has a good weighting and our calligraphy trim tester with the large 21-inch wheels was able to achieve 0.84 g of grip on the skidpad, there is, as anticipated, some body roll in bends.

For those seeking more sporty reflexes, we suggest considering the Mazda CX-90, which offers three rows of seats and an enhanced driving experience.

The Santa Fe provides a smooth and peaceful ride, especially on the highway, yet requires little driver intervention.Despite being 0.3 slower than the previous generation, our 2024 Santa Fe Calligraphy AWD reached 60 mph (ca. 97 km/h) in 6.3 seconds, making it competitive for its class. 

Capacity for Payload and Towing

When equipped with trailer brakes, the Santa Fe can tow 3500 pounds (1.59 t); when without, it can pull 1650 pounds.

Buyers who want to increase the towing capacity can opt for the XRT variant, certified for 4500 pounds with trailer brakes..

Fuel Economy

According to EPA estimations, the Santa Fe with front-wheel drive will get 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the interstate.

Choosing the more durable XRT model lowers fuel economy numbers to 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, while adding all-wheel drive lowers the highway number to 28 mpg.

The Santa Fe Calligraphy AWD scored 24 mpg on our actual highway driving test at 75 mph (ca. 121 km/h), which is a substantial 4 mpg drop from its EPA rating. Visit the EPA website to learn more about the Santa Fe’s fuel efficiency.

Cargo, Comfort, inside and Interior

The steering wheel and a few knobs are the only round components in the new Santa Fe’s cockpit, which is in keeping with its bold, boxy external design approach. Dramatic rectangles enclose the remainder of the room.

The cockpit of the Land Rover Defender clearly influenced the off-road-ready XRT trim’s boxy toughness. There are lots of storage spaces in the front row. Even the dual wireless smartphone charger, which can charge two phones in the center console at once, has adequate space.

Large cubbies line the bottom of the door panels, and a wide-mouth pass-through beneath that area may accommodate a bag or purse. For passengers seated in the rear, there is a temperature control knob to modify the HVAC, and the seats in the second and third rows fold flat.

Despite the fact that the third row is less spacious than the larger Palisade’s, it is still suitable for children and small individuals. According to Hyundai, the area behind the third row is 14.6 cubic feet (0.41 m³).

We tested carry-on suitcases by fitting 34 cases with the third and second rows folded, 16 cases with the third row stowed, and five bags behind the third row.

Related: 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe: In-Depth Review

Related: 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe: Key Features and Improvements

Related:Hyundai Santa Fe Best Hybrid Trim 2025: The Ultimate Guide

Related: Hyundai Santa Fe History: From 2000 to Today’s Modern SUV

Related: 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe Review: Specs, Price,performance

Related: 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe V6: Specs, Performance, Safety, and More

Related:2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Review: A Versatile SUV with Comfort and Style

Related: hyundai santa fe 2016 review and configuration