Pros A pair of gutsy engines, high-end interior design, surprisingly athletic chassis.
Cons Snug rear seats, a few questionable ergonomic choices, paltry towing capacity.
Pros Powerful and response V6 engine Interior materials rival those in top-tier competitors Costs thousands less than other luxury SUVs Lots of cargo room
Cons Infotainment system can be difficult to use Firm front seats Small door openings and tight rear seat Models with large wheels produce a noticeably bumpy ride
Pros Well equipped Keenly priced Lots of safety technology
Cons Larger wheels ruin the ride Some rivals are roomier in the back Noisy diesel engine
For 2021 Significant exterior and interior update.Completely revised powertrain lineup, including a newly available hybrid.New range-topping Calligraphy trim.
Pros Abundant standard features for the money Generous warranty coverage Smooth operation of advanced driver aids Quick acceleration from available turbocharged 2.5-liter engine
Cons Overly soft suspension tuning dilutes driver enjoyment 10.25-inch touchscreen can be a bit slow to respond
The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe makes premium gains with hybrid and turbo-4 power and a Palisade-like interior.
Pros Larger standard and available touchscreens Hybrid models Potent powertrains Revised transmission Luxe Calligraphy edition
Cons Moderate base-engine power Middling fuel economy (except Hybrid) Busy body
The Santa Fe receives a visual freshening for 2021 that includes bolder front-end styling and improvements to its interior. Three new powertrains are offered: A 2.5-liter four-cylinder replaces the standard 2.4-liter unit, a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder replaces the optional turbocharged 2.0-liter, and a hybrid variant powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor joins the lineup.
Pros Relative bargain compared to rivals, relaxed demeanor, nicely-equipped cabin.
Cons Nonhybrid models could be more fuel efficient, tight rear seat headroom, no third-row option.