Hyundai Santa Fe: pros and cons

Hyundai Motor Philippines Incorporated (HMPH) introduced the next-generation Santa Fe a year ago. Fast-forward to 2024, and the model has become more desirable to prospective buyers due to the recent launch of the all-new hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) trim. 

So, to help those who are looking to drive home Hyundai’s midsize three-row crossover, let us delve into its pros and cons. 

Pros:

Loads of road presence

One of the biggest strengths of the Santa Fe is its exterior styling. Simply put, the vehicle is a definite eye-catcher thanks to its boxy shape, combined with a wealth of “H-pattern” designs found on its body.

The three-row vehicle also received a large size, which provides it with an impressive road presence. For reference, it is 4,830-millimeters (mm) long, 1,900-mm wide, and 1,780-mm tall. Combined with its shape and design, the size of the Korean-made crossover means it can be easily spotted in traffic. 

For its rear end, some may not like the low positioning of its H-pattern LED taillights, but the very tall and wide tailgate will be useful for loading up on cargo. Plus, the model comes standard with a power tailgate, resulting in more ease of use. 

Peppy powertrains

Regardless of the trim, the next-gen Santa Fe comes kitted out with a peppy powertrain. On the entry-level GLS trims, it uses a naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter gasoline mill capable of producing up to 191 horsepower (hp) and 246 Newton-meters of torque. 

Further up the Santa Fe variant range is the Calligraphy, which uses a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder capable of producing 277 hp and 422 Nm of torque. 

Finally, the new HEV trim is propelled by a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 gasoline mill paired with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. Combined, the said powertrain can produce up to 231 hp and 367 Nm of torque. 

To put it into perspective, those torque figures mentioned above are already reaching the realm of diesel engines. As a point of comparison, the G and V trims of the 2.4-liter-powered Toyota Fortuner can produce up to 400 Nm of torque. 

Apart from its engine lineup, the Hyundai model may also come with all-wheel drive. This feature means better traction in slippery situations. Coupled with its generous ground clearance of 210-mm, the model will have no issues when encountering unpaved roads and the occasional poorly maintained thoroughfares in the city. 

Roomy and well-arranged cockpit

Yet another notable strength of the Hyundai Santa Fe is its front cabin. It offers a wealth of useful driving features, plus it is arranged well enough for the driver to easily find the buttons for the vehicle’s music player and automatic air-conditioning system. 

Finding one’s preferred driving position is also easy, thanks to the vehicle’s power-adjustable front seats and tilt and telescopic steering wheel.

Hyundai likewise freed up more room in the center console area due to the shifter’s position on the steering column. As such, the vehicle features a huge center console bin and two wireless smartphone charging pads sitting side by side. 

Its pair of 12.3-inch digital displays are also well laid out to not impede forward visibility. Notably, the screens are seamlessly linked together to form a widescreen, which does wonders for legibility and usability.

Cons:

Third row can be tight

While the second row of the Santa Fe is noted to provide loads of legroom and elbowroom, the third row can be stuffy for larger occupants. It may be able to fit two adults, but some may find it too cramped for long journeys.

Nevertheless, small children or teens will have no issues when using the rear-most bench-type seat. 

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Hyundai Santa Fe is a potent choice for buyers wanting a peppy three-row ride. It boasts a stylish exterior design and is loaded with plenty of features befitting a family-oriented people mover. 

For those who are serious about getting the Santa Fe, however, be aware that this guide merely touches the surface regarding the capabilities and limitations of the aforementioned crossover. So, to formulate a more informed car-buying choice, we highly advise giving the vehicle a thorough test drive. 

Also read: 

Hyundai Santa Fe HEV vs. the competition

Stablemate duel: Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5T Calligraphy vs. Calligraphy HEV

Hyundai Motor PH unveils Tucson, Santa Fe hybrid versions