Santa Fe SUV: The Ultimate Guide to Hyundai’s Popular Compact Crossover
The Hyundai Santa Fe SUV has established itself as a leading contender in the compact crossover market, offering a compelling mix of comfort, technology, and performance. Its well-designed cabin provides ample space for passengers and cargo, while its efficient engines ensure a smooth and economical ride. The Santa Fe also boasts an impressive suite of driver-assistance features, making it a top choice for safety-conscious buyers.
Key Features of the Hyundai Santa Fe
The Santa Fe comes equipped with a host of modern amenities designed to enhance convenience and comfort.

Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Santa Fe offers two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 191 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine delivering 277 horsepower. The hybrid variant pairs a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor for improved fuel economy, achieving an EPA-estimated 34 MPG combined. All-wheel drive is available for enhanced traction in various driving conditions.
Interior and Cargo Space
The Santa Fe’s cabin is designed with both comfort and functionality in mind. The five-seat configuration provides generous legroom and headroom, while the 60/40 split-folding rear seats allow for flexible cargo arrangements. With the rear seats up, the Santa Fe offers 36.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 72.1 cubic feet when folded down.
Comparison of Popular Compact Crossovers
| Model | Starting Price (USD) | Engine Options | Cargo Space (cu ft) | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Santa Fe | $28,000 | 2.5L, 2.5L Turbo, Hybrid | 36.4 – 72.1 | 24 – 34 (combined) |
| Toyota RAV4 | $27,500 | 2.5L, Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid | 37.6 – 69.8 | 30 – 40 (combined) |
| Honda CR-V | $26,800 | 1.5L Turbo, Hybrid | 39.2 – 75.8 | 30 – 38 (combined) |
| Ford Escape | $26,000 | 1.5L Turbo, 2.0L Turbo, Hybrid | 37.5 – 65.4 | 28 – 41 (combined) |
Safety and Technology
The Santa Fe excels in safety, earning top ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and head-up display further enhance the driving experience.
Final Thoughts
With its well-rounded capabilities, the Hyundai Santa Fe SUV remains a standout option in the competitive compact crossover segment. Its combination of style, practicality, and advanced features makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of drivers. For those seeking a reliable and feature-packed vehicle, the Santa Fe is certainly worth considering.
References:
Hyundai Official Website
Toyota Official Website
Honda Official Website
Ford Official Website