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. The Santa Fe gains a push-button shifter, several new optional driver-assistance features including a semi-autonomous driving mode, larger 8.0-inch and optional 10.3-inch infotainment displays, an optional 12.3-inch digital gauge display, and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Following in the larger Palisade's footsteps, the Santa Fe also gains a fancy Calligraphy trim level with quilted leather upholstery, a color head-up display, standard all-wheel drive, unique exterior accents, and more upscale interior embellishments.
The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe pushes efficiency with a new hybrid model.
PROS Larger standard and available touchscreens Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models More efficient, potent powertrains Revised transmission
CONS Expected price increase Calligraphy edges into Genesis turf Unknown standard features Unknown value
Pros Comfy, spacious, clever tech
Cons Not very interesting, not as cheap as it was, lack of choice RE engines
The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer is an old name on a new idea from GM.
Pros Sharp looks Heritage name Right-sized Standard active safety tech
Cons Comparatively sedate interior How much will it cost? No powertrain info
The Chevy Trailblazer is all-new for 2021, returning to the market after Chevy ended production of the crossover in 2009.The 2021 Trailblazer starts at less than $20,000, making it cheaper than the Trax. Every model features a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Except for the base L model, every Trailblazer can be had with all-wheel drive and the more powerful turbocharged 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine. While the Activ and RS models have distinctly rugged and sporty styling, respectively, we think the LT trim level is the best value. We'd also recommend opting for the bigger engine with all-wheel drive for an extra $2000.
After a 12-year hiatus, the Trailblazer name has been revived for the U.S.Part of the second Trailblazer generation introduced for 2021.
Pros Sharp exterior styling Competitive list of standard and optional safety features Activ model brings some light off-road capabilities
Cons Engine and power figures seem weak on paper for an SUV
