Overview & Reviews

Entering its second year of production, the Santa Fe gets four-wheel disc brakes as standard equipment as well as an optional upgraded stereo system. In May 2002, Hyundai responds to customer requests and makes a power sunroof optional for GLS and LX models. Besides that, all models benefit from midyear interior upgrades, among these larger air conditioning vents; a center stack-mounted clock; illumination for the power window buttons and glovebox; chrome accents; ISOFIX child-seat anchors for the outboard rear seating positions and an improved rear-seat recliner and folding mechanism. In September 2002, Hyundai announced that it had misstated the horsepower ratings for all of the models in its lineup -- the Santa Fe's 2.4-liter four-cylinder is now rated for 138 hp and its V6 is now at 173 hp. To compensate, the company is offering Hyundai owners (of 2000 models and newer) three options: 10 years of roadside assistance, 6-year/72,000-mile basic warranty coverage or 12-year/120,000-mile powertrain coverage.

• Relatively inexpensive price, super warranty, roomy interior.

• Unimpressive four-wheeling capability, underwhelming powertrain performance.

User Reviews:

Showing 41 through 50 of 251.00

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  best mini suv there is - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By kelly26 - July 27 - 10:00 am

  I just brought my santa fe and I love it. Its very comfortable fun to drive. It goes up hills very well. You difently get your moneys worth with the Santa Fe

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  This SUV cannot be beat - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By schmoejoe - July 25 - 4:06 am

  After about 1,500 miles I can honestly say that I have never purchased a better vehicle than the 2002 Santa Fe LX FWD. This car has every luxury amenity you could ask for and I cost me less than $22,000. The handling and peformance is terrific and after driving a 1999 Honda CRV for 3 years, it feels like I have really moved up in class. As one editor stated in the mini-SUV competition, if you like the way it looks(and I love it), dont even bother test driving the others.

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  Fantastic Car/SUV - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By TomJ - July 23 - 11:03 am

  Styling (controversial--but I like it!) and features got me past the raised eyebrows when I told people I was looking at a Hyundai; ride (and price) convinced me to buy it. After three weeks, I am still surprised at how solid and sensible the Santa Fe is--I have no problems with either the engines power or the firmness of the front seats (two areas that some reviews have questioned). It is built like something much more expensive, and it has a good (if incomplete) selection of "upscale" features. If you are looking at a small SUV, be sure to take the Santa Fe for a drive and discover what a change has occurred in Hyundai.

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  Enough Power For Me - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By rgunnc - July 14 - 2:00 am

  This car rides and handles far better than Ford Explorers I have ridden in for the 3000 miles we have driven it. We took it to the mountains of NC for a real trial and it climbed even the steepest hills with little effort and maintained 60 mph in cruise, downshifting as needed. Got 25mpg going up and nearly 30 coming back. The horsepower is adequate, not exceeding 4000 rpm on the steepest incline.

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  I wish I had another one! - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By susanAT - June 22 - 10:00 am

  My husband drives it most of the time. Now I want to buy my own because I want to drive it too. That says it all. Its the best quality for the value out there.

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  So far so good! - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By jakster - June 14 - 10:00 am

  I researched SUVs until my wife was ready to kill me. Was looking hard at Ford Escape/Mazda Tribute until I saw the crash results (marginal). The Hyundai is a blast to ride, the wife keeps trying to take it from me! I paid $20,736 (before taxes and tags) and got rails, mats, guards, cargo mat and tray from Fairfax Hyundai (Danny Lee). Really impressed with the dealership. To get a Ford or Mazda equally equipped would cost another $3000-$4000.

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  My Crome - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Johnny J - May 27 - 2:00 am

  A Great vehicle I use it for Mobile DJing and it is quite dependable. It also is very eye catching. Many good comments from people that I wouldnt expect it from. The customer service has been excellent.

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  I love my Santa Fe! - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Donna - May 20 - 11:16 am

  I purchased this vehicle brand new, and from the day I picked it up to this day, it has served me well. I recently had a 60,000 mile check-up, and although it was expensive, I had great feedback from the mechanic who did the work. I have never broken down anywhere, nor have I ever been afraid to take my car on trips. I feel safe in my car, especially being above most other vehicles. I recently replaced my brakes and tires after 60000 miles. Can you imagine that? Brakes that stop and tires that keep on running! When the day comes to retire this wonderful car, you can bet that I will turn right around and replace it with another Santa Fe. I love my Santa Fe! Donna in Sacramento

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  Superb Quality - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Aggie91 - April 16 - 5:50 am

  This ugly thing has grown on me. It has been virtually maintenance free. The build quality is superb - Im really impressed. Its resale value is far underappeciated for the reliability and quality. I will buy more Hyundai products.

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  2002 Santa Fe LX 4WD Pewter - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By lpjxk0 - March 23 - 10:23 pm

  The vehicle drives like a luxury car, quiet, smooth & responsive. It is a heavy vehicle and I am averaging 20 mpg combined city/highway. The workmanship is top notch,and it looks great. I notice many people looking at the vehicle when my wife and I go to the mall.