Overview & Reviews

One of Hyundai's longest-running nameplates, the Santa Fe is a car-based crossover SUV aimed at buyers seeking the elevated ride height and useful cargo area of a traditional utility vehicle in an easy-to-drive package. Modern versions of the Hyundai Santa Fe are midsize with three rows of seating, quality cabin furnishings and user-friendly tech features. Whether you're shopping for a new or used Santa Fe, value is a big part of its appeal. The standard equipment list is generous, as is Hyundai's warranty coverage.

Earlier versions of the Hyundai Santa Fe range from compact to midsize in dimensions and have seating for five passengers. The 2007 and later models are a big step up in styling, performance and interior space, and they're worth considering if you're shopping for a used midsize crossover. Hyundai has since subdivided the Santa Fe line into two models: the two-row Santa Fe Sport and the three-row Santa Fe. The latter is more luxurious than its predecessors, offering premium styling and plenty of power.

User Reviews:

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  Waste of money - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Meredith - August 3 - 10:22 am

  Since purchasing my Santa Fe a year ago, I have had nothing but problems. Within 2 weeks I had to spend over $1500 on repairs, and that wasnt the end. The windshield was not placed in properly (apparently a common problem with these cars), causing the passenger side to have a large leak any time it rains. The gas gauge does not read properly, and will say the tank is empty a day after it is filled up. The seat heaters do not work (the passenger button controls the driver seat, and the passenger heater does not work at all). The a/c and heat are on constantly at full blast, there is no way to turn it down or off. I could go on about the problems I have had with this car, and unfortunately Hyundai will not cover any of the costs to repair these problems. I am counting down the days until I can buy a new one. I will never buy a Hyundai again.

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  Fantastic vehicle - 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By JM - July 31 - 10:00 am

  I love my Santa Fe! I owned a 2007 Toyota RAV 4 for a month and traded it in for this fantastic vehicle. I dont recommend doing that, though. Lost some money. Lots actually. Toyota more expensive, Santa Fe a better value.Test drove Honda CRV, Saturn Vue, Subaru Forester and Outback. Forget the rest and go right for the Santa Fe. It is built solidly, quiet, great ride. Radio has a great sound. I feel like Im in a more expensive car. Found headrest uncomfortable, but just turned it around.

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  One Great SUV - 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By jfrnarr - July 31 - 2:00 am

  The SUV drives like a car. The best price for the quality. We are very happy with our Santa Fe. It has lots of space for our kids, and it doesnt kill you on gas.

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  First 3,000 mile impression - 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By santafejoe - July 23 - 12:25 am

  After reading the reviews and testing the vehicle for ourself we bought one, but not the one we test drove. The steering problem was not in the first one we tested but slightly in the one we bought. Switching to Sport pretty much made it go away. In my opinion its non exisistant now because you adapt and I think they put the front wheels very parallel without much Toe-in and that makes for in very good fuel economy. I normally average 31 MPG! with a mix of 60 mph highway and town driving. Top Highway for me is 34MPG and this makes vehicle outstanding! I have the FWD and my previous vehicle was a Nissan Murano AWD, which I dont think I ever used the AWD. I could not be more pleased.

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  Best little hauler out there - 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Skuuter - July 20 - 10:00 am

  After test driving and researching all the small and mid-size SUVs that we were interested in (Kia Sorento, Ford Escape, Saturn VUE, Mazda Tribute, Suzuki XL-7), the Santa Fe was the winner based on value, driveability, safety, warranty and style, in that order. Its taken a while to warm up to the unique styling, but when youre driving this vehicle, looks are secondary. Its enjoyable and comfortable to drive on long trips. Lots of room for front and rear passengers. I do feel the 2.7 liter V6 is adequate for most people who dont plan to tow anything and use this as a daily driver.

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  Sante Fe - 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By LB - July 17 - 8:46 am

  Purchased my Santa Fe last week and have loved it. Only issue is the add on RES DVD player has display issue, but dealer wants me to bring in and says he will even pay for my gas. You cannot get better service!!!

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  First Non-North American Car - 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By milehiclub - July 16 - 12:40 pm

  Ive had the Santa Fe for almost 2 months now. The ride and handling are great. Pick up is better than expected. I have had GM, Ford and Dodge and they didnt feel as solid as the Santa Fe. Highway driving is excellent, city is also good. Lots of cargo space and storage in rear. My 3 kids sit comfortably in back seat. Quiet in the cabin at highway speeds. Gas mileage isnt bad with the V6, just drive in the ECO range and youll get further. Overall not a bad choice for my first import car (Korean). Ill see how it holds up over the next 5 years and update my review where needed.

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  Great Buy for the Money - 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By JRinUtah - July 16 - 8:40 am

  I bought this vehicle a commuter car. This is my 1st Hyundai and I was a bit skeptical, however Ive been very impressed. The fuel economy could be better, but its fine even with todays prices. Love the layout of the cabin and the drive; and thats saying a lot since my other vehicle is a 05 Acura. The power is good, even in the Utah Mountains. The only 2 downs are the drivers side can be a little tight and the pedals are close together. I think the 2.7L engine is a little weak for my mountains, but was fine in the city during the test drive. Overall a great value for the money and a good low cost alternative to Toyota and Honda.

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  Smooth Rider - 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Dr BobRX - July 14 - 2:00 am

  I have driven the Santa Fe over 3000 miles and it has been just a gem. I have to keep reminding myself that this is not a $30K+ SUV. My longest trip was 400 miles and I arrived very refreshed which was a pleasant surprise.

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  I cant wait to trade in my Santa Fe - 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Shane - July 13 - 4:21 am

  I would not recommend buying this vehicle. The car has many leaks such as the power steering fluid and the A/C refrigerant. I constantly am buying more fluid for the car. Every summer I have to recharge the A/C. My headlights are faded and my car is slightly rusted. The seats arent very supportive. The dealer offers $816 to trade it in. The car does not get very good fuel economy. I hate my Santa Fe