A lot for the $
This is my 3rd Santa Fe from this body style.
At 15'3" it will fit in the parking places the later model 6cyl Santa Fe will not.
The 6 speed 3.2 axle ratio works well with the 6 cyl to get around the slower vehicles, especially up hills. ( don't try it with the 4 cyclinder ).
The shifter/brake assembly will start to make a click in the shifter ball after some time. A small annoyance.
The AWD version is much better with traction, than the 2wd version in all conditions.
The gas mileage is slightly better on the 2wd vs the AWD. The gas mileage on my 4cylinder AWD is about the same as the 6 cyl FWD.
On the FWD 6 cyl I got up to 30mpg on flat highways averaging about 26mpg across the US. City is 18-20mpg. Cruise ctrl lowers mileage.
The upgraded stereo system went out on on of them and the audio unit is an expensive replacement if you have the touch screen version.
Visibility is good compared to other comparable suvs.
The GL basic cloth interior is more comfortable than the SE seats that use a leather trim / fabric seat and back area.
The leather interior doesn't breathe - so it can be sweaty.
The non leather steering wheel is easier to grip, and the leather creaks a bit, until you treat it with a conditioner . a moisturizing sani wipe works well.
The dash display is easy to read. computer is decent with: Temperature, mpg, avg mph, and two trip counters.
Fog light and decent controls are in awkward place on lower left side of dash
Compass in the auto dimming rear view is accurate and the mirror visibility is great day and night.
Console has 2 stages of ez access storage. USB ad receptacle power are ez to access.
Heated seat controls are in the storage tray in front next to pwr outlets and can accidentally be activated easily.
Storage space is better than most any other SUV in it's class. smart out of view compartments and power outlets.
Cup holder are side by side in center console and have cool lighting.
The doors all have decent inner compartments for your stuff and are wide enough to handle bottles of water.
Stock tires are a B rated for temp and can go 50-60k before you need to replace.
Sensors can be tricky for many service centers to accurately diagnose;
An awd has axle sensors that have been tripped and affected my descent ctrl, traction ctrl and braking.
Overall it's smooth on the road, quiet with floor mats and all weather mats in place.
Handles well, steering is responsive, not too tight.
The Power is there to get on the fast moving freeways and tackle the steep ascents.
It's a car frame, so I haven't put it to the test on dirt and rock paths.
The AWD does keep traction well in compacted and shallow snow.
For Freeway and city driving, its comfortable to drive and ride in.
Recommended
Verified Owner
