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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  Great with a few issues - 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By ricknplano - August 20 - 6:30 am

  Have about 600 miles on my 2.7 GLS automatic. Love the styling, smooth and quiet engine and transmission, adequate power. Got 24 mpg on first tank and 21 mpg on second with gentle driving mixed city/highway. happy with purchase overall - best SUV in the class and price.

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  WELL WORTH IT - 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Robby - August 19 - 2:00 am

  Never thought I would own a Hyundai. I am happy I do. Well built. Well Engineered. A lot of thought went into the design of this car. I would buy one again. Thanks Hyundai

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  Bang for Your Buck - 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By cj8drummer - August 18 - 11:53 pm

  Very happy with vehicle overall. I think Hyundai is offering a lot of upscale features for a reasonable price. I have three kids that are hard on a car. The leather is definitely a winner and the interior feels nice. I opted to pass on the third row which at times Im sure Ill miss but I really didnt want to give up the storage space that you lose when adding the third row.

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  Love it - 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By JC - August 18 - 7:26 pm

  I love this vehicle. Its fun to drive and it handles very well. Glad I got the 3.5, as it has fantastic pick-up. The only draw back -- it is a little thirsty at the pump. I would not, however, go back to Auto Nation.

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  2007 Sante Fe, Fantastic Value - 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Joe W - August 17 - 11:16 pm

  I purchased a Hyundai for my son 2 years ago and was very impressed with the value of the vehicle. I did not like the 2006 Sante Fe exterior but read that the 2007 was going to be a significant redesign. When I found phots of the 2007 I began to compare the Sante Fe to the Hondas and Toyotas. I think that the value for the price is not even a close comparison. I knew I wanted to purchase a new Sante Fe as soon as I was able to find the best price for the model and options I wanted. I like the ride and handeling, I like how quite the interior ride is, I think that most of the controls and features are well thought out and placed within reach of the driver and I really like the way it looks.

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  Maintenance was clearly an afterthought! - 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Wavy Dave - August 15 - 12:43 am

  I purchased my Santa Fe new in 2003. Currently have about 69,000 miles on it. Several issues over the last year including, replacing alternator, gas regulator valve, gas return line. A/C cuts on/off going over bumps. Drivers side window is on its last legs. Rear bearings, emergency brake. While the initial purchase price was very good, you wind up paying for maintenance in the long term. Clearly Hyundai engineers did not take maintenance into consideration. Simple things like a spark plug change have to be brought to dealer because the process is very complex. Dealer quoted $520 for new PVC valve, plugs and wires. Currently, Im lucky if I average 12-13 mpg.

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  great suv for the price - 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By joe casano - August 7 - 10:00 am

  the santa fe is a well built suv for the money. all the extras in the car u would pay a lot more for on other suvs and the quality of the car is very good. I would recommend this auto to all my friends.

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  3.5L.........A must have!!! - 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Bdyardboy - August 7 - 10:00 am

  All I have to say is "wow"! Every Santa Fe should have the 3.5L. I bought this for my wife and now I get the 02 Elantra GT. Not to make the GT jealous, but I think I like the Santa Fe more (shhhh). Even if you already have the GREAT Santa Fe with the smaller engines, you need to just go test drive the 3.5L. It will bring a smile to your face.

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  A quantum leap from the old version - 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By Franc - August 5 - 11:03 am

  Traded-in 2002 model for new one. 2007 is so much better. Loaded model with everything except the third row seats (you get a really neat under floor storage system instead). Quiet inside with tons of comfort features. Good leather seats front and back. Not a barn burner re. performance but plenty of oomph for daily driving. Handling is sound and much improved over vagueness of previous model. Taking comfort in substantial safety features. MPG within EPA rating.

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  Harry Hyundai, part of family - 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe
  By C.Ash - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Great car, usually we buy toyota or volvo, but took a chance with hyundai. Ive been very pleased with the car, rides great, sits comfortable, but upholstery lacks class. Had a few problems with passanger seat clicking and timing belt clicking, but dealership fixed. Did great this winter in the snowstorm. Car came with many standard features. Acceleration is excellent from 0-40, but 40-70 slows down quite a bit. Expected better gas mileage, but I only get around 18 mpg in town and 21-22 mpg on the highway.