Hyundai Santa Fe

The midsized Hyundai Santa Fe SUV is redesigned for the 2024 model year, giving it a boxy look and a striking interior. Increased dimensions bring improved interior space for rear passengers, a standard small third-row seat, and a larger rear hatch opening. Two carryover powertrains are offered: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid with a six-speed automatic. The plug-in hybrid option has been dropped. Front- and all-wheel drive will be available. The dash features a large, curved display screen that integrates the dual 12.3-inch displays for the digital driver's instrument screen and the infotainment system. One nice feature is that the cubby under the armrest is double hinged so it can be opened either from the front or the rear.

The midsized Santa Fe underwent an extensive freshening for 2021 with new engines, interior changes and the availability of a hybrid version. The Santa Fe fits above the Tucson and below the larger, three-row Palisade. The standard 191-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder is a bit weak and noisy. The optional 2.5-liter turbo is much more powerful but is mated to a dual-clutch automatic that has some low-speed vibrations. A hybrid version comes with a 1.6-liter turbo engine and got 30 mpg overall in our tests. We think it's the best version to get. It also rides more comfortably than the non-hybrid Santa Fe. The cabin is roomy with a generous rear seat and cargo space. The interior is stylish but the center console is a sea of buttons, and the push-button gear selector is tricky to use without looking. FCW and AEB with pedestrian detection are standard. BSW and RCTW are standard on all trims starting with the 2022 models. A 261-hp plug-in hybrid with 30 miles of electric range and a new, rugged exterior styling XRT trim are new for 2022. 

The redesigned five-passenger Santa Fe is a compelling choice priced close to some top-trim compact SUVs. It's available with a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine or a more powerful 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder. The turbo returned just 21 mpg overall in our tests and suffers from an uneven power delivery, either hesitating or abruptly launching the SUV forward. We think the 2.4-liter is a better choice. The Hyundai has composed handling and responsive steering, but the ride skews firm. Only mild engine noise penetrates the otherwise quiet cabin. The controls are clear and easy to master, particularly the quick-to-respond infotainment system. There is plenty of head- and legroom, and the seats are comfortable and supportive. Rear-seat room is very generous. Standard safety systems include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot warning.