2002 Hyundai Santa Fe Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.58/5 Average
251 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

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.

Pros:
  • Relatively inexpensive price, super warranty, roomy interior.
Cons:
  • Unimpressive four-wheeling capability, underwhelming powertrain performance.

User Reviews:

Showing 241 through 250 of 251.00
  • Awesome Vehicle - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    Weve had our Santa Fe for over 2 yrs now and have not had any problems with it. I feel very safe in this car. My husband takes it to work about 35 miles from home in the winter (and we live in one of the worst snow band areas) and this car handles wonderfully. We have the AWD and Traction Control features. Would definitely buy another.

  • Brand New - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    I had my heart set on a Ford Escape or a Toyota RAV 4 but after driving it I found the Escape noisy and boring. Who would want a 3 year warranty when you can have a 5 year, 60000 miles with Hyundai? The Santa Fe is a much better looking car with a comfortable interior and excellent value for money. I know there are people who will always say a Hyundai is a Hyundai. Well, I suggest they go and drive the car before giving it the third degree. Im very pleased with the purchase.

  • Proud new owner - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    We are the proud new owners of a Pewter Santa Fe LX AWD. It is truly a "neighbours envy, owners pride"! The other favorite was the Mazda Tribute. Four reasons why we went for the Santa Fe: 1)Stalling problems and recalls in the Tribute. 2)Good crash test rating for Santa Fe(top of its class) 3)SF loaded with a lot of standard features. 4)SF exterior stands out from the rest.

  • Incredible Value - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    Weve had our Santa Fe for almost 3 months and have had absolutely no problems. This vehicle is fun to drive, easy to manuever, and has a great ride. Seats are comfortable and roomy. Rear seat space is ample. We got 24 mpg on first road trip - thats with AC on and pushing the speed limit.

  • LAWLERs PIC - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    Great Looking SUV(inside and out) thats fun to drive, and also great on gas. Maybe American Car builders should take a better look at the santa Fe before making thiers.

  • go for it, wont regret... - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    you get more for money. nice ride and safe

  • eri - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    very fun to drive and exciting

  • love my car - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    I love my Santa Fe, but it has had a few problems I have had to replace the battery on it 4 times the brakes 2 times the timing chain, and pvc valves and 3 gas caps, and tires 2 times. Im going to have to have it fixed again as the check engine light is back on and wont go off. Safety though in this car is wonderful I have been in 2 big accidents in it and no one in my car was hurt.

  • Transmission Issues? - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    Had the vehicle since Nov 01 (02 model). Possible transmission issues from the start. Had a transmission overheat (or something) in March 02. That may have started the ball rolling to a complete replacement in July of 03 (just after rolling 50K-per the dealership Svc Manager). Have trans oil checked/changed regularly to keep an eye open for any problems. Will come back and keep you posted. Otherwise, I am satisfied with the purchase, just may wind up being gun shy for a little while on the transmission problem.

  • 2002 Santa Fe Review - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    I have driven my Santa Fe since September 2002 and, without any hesitancy, purchase another Santa Fe. Its maneuverability in town traffic and over the road is outstanding. Im been proud to recommend it to others.

Hyundai Santa Fe Reviews By Year:
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