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 51 through 60 of 251.00

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  fun suv to drive - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By batt224 - November 23 - 3:56 am

  very good suv for the price, poor gas mileage...

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  2002 Hyundai Santa Fe LX 4WD V6 - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By E Dawes - October 10 - 3:10 am

  This has been a very satisfactory car for me. The features are excellent for the price. It is a bit underpowered for the weight of the vehicle, but Hyundai has corrected that in newer models. The only failure in 5 years has been the interior clock for which a replacement doesnt seem to be available. I am considering purchasing another Santa Fe when I replace my present car.

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  Hooray for Fe - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By San T. Fay - September 3 - 2:00 am

  Solid built vehicle, nice addition to the marketplace. Good alternatives to some higher priced (over priced) competitors. Roomy interior, decent exterior design that is unique and different...although it has been mistaken twice for a Lexus. Overall excellent value. Great/easy experience with local dealership (which was a first!)

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  Brand New - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By RCLNH - August 8 - 2:00 am

  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.

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  Transmission Issues? - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By scott townsend - February 28 - 10:00 am

  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.