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 1 through 10 of 251.00

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  Power and Transmission - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Smokeyridgerunner - December 22 - 10:00 am

  First it was not the engine I was told I had, it has a 173 hp. The lights dim when I turn the AC on. Whe making a turn the automatic transmission does not shift down to the next lower and when I press the gas it drives really slow until I make up the speed to shift to a higher gear. Sometimes it just jumps into passing gear and you would almost run into the car in front of you. If anyone is having these problems let me know because Hyundai said the auto is ok.

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  pleasantly surprised - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By russ - November 22 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car for my wife to drive around in. the air cond/heating is fast and efficient as is the pickup in it. I was a little disappointed in the legroom as Im 61" and am used to the legroom in my fullsize pickup but when I put the seat back tilted a bit, it works out fine for a trip. The cargo space and style are also very nice and we get compliments on it all the time. I

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  very satisfied - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By john smith - November 9 - 10:00 am

  Whats all this talk about not enough power?? Compared to most of the rest of the world we Americans are sooo spoiled. In most other places this vehicle would be considered very peppy. It is certainly adequate for me. Only complaint is not enough room for long legged drivers. Live long and prosper!

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  my santafe - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Ellen Perlson - July 9 - 10:00 am

  So far after 4000 miles in 2 months I love my santa fe. Tons of room for me my show dogs and all their gear. This is a fun car to drive.

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  My 2 cents - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By for_now - June 16 - 10:00 am

  Theres not much more I can say that hasnt already been said. The Santa Fe is very nice. Its only bad points are that it is under powered and that gas milage is bad. Im sure anyone that buys one will be happy with it.

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  Excellent Car for the Money - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By boverman - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Excellent mini-SUV. True to the manufactures description and design. However, power seats added to the already great list of standard would be a big plus. No complaints from this Santa Fe owner on its performance. Good little ride and safe design.

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  reliable - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By T Bagn - March 18 - 10:36 am

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  We love our Santa Fe - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By luvrsantafe - January 15 - 2:00 am

  This has been a GREAT SUV. With AWD, ABS and traction control it is extremely difficult to lose control in snow/ice. We had no trouble getting to/from work this winter in 1+ foot of snow - no need for chains at all. Unique styling makes it stand out from the competition. Lots of creature comforts standard - cant believe we went this long without keyless entry - now cant see having another vehicle without it. Great handling, comfortable driving and riding.

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  As they say "Driving is beleiving" - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Hyundai driver - December 8 - 10:00 am

  After driving a BMW 325IS for 5 years I decided that I needed to upgrade to something with 4 doors with the ability to carry cargo. I drove numberous other SUVs mini and mid sized. None of them could complete with the feel, drive, design, and space of the Hyundai, not to mention the warranty. The Hyundai Santa fe is the best in its class hands down and as they say "Driving is believing" beacause once you drive the new Hyundais you will agree.

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  Nice car - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Lloyd - November 9 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I enjoy this vehicle. It is fun to drive and a good value for the money. We are a little nervous because so many items have had to be repaired in the first 10,000 miles.