Hyundai Santa Fe History
By
LATEST ARTICLE
2013 Nissan Altima Sedan: $21,500, Available For Pre-Order Now
The new 2013 Nissan Altima made its debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show, but it won't arrive at... Read More
2013 Nissan Altima Sedan: $21,500, Available For Pre-Order Now
The new 2013 Nissan Altima made its debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show, but it won't arrive at... Read More
- #3LEADERBOARD RANK
- 5424ARTICLES CONTRIBUTED
- 204COMMENTS POSTED
423 views
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a mid-size, mainstream crossover SUV that's been on sale in the U.S. since 2001. Over its model run, it has grown in size and power as well as recognition. It now competes strongly against the Ford Edge, Honda Pilot, Kia Sorento, Toyota RAV4 and Toyota Highlander, but it has the advantage of price, starting at $21,695 to $26,645 depending on the trim level chosen--up to several thousand dollars cheaper than its competition.
Since its debut on the market in 2001, the Hyundai Santa Fe has seen just two generations of production. The first version of the Santa Fe featured three trim levels, and a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine available with a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission or a 2.7-liter V-6 paired only with the automatic. Front-wheel drive was standard, though four-wheel drive was available. In 2003, a 3.5-liter V-6 engine option was added to the lineup, with only minor visual changes through 2006.
The new generation, which debuted in 2007, featured a choice of three trims, the GLS, SE, and Limited at its debut, along with a revised lineup of engines: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, a 2.7-liter V-6, and a 3.3-liter V-6. The 2.7-liter was the only model available with a manual transmission, with the others getting a four- or five-speed automatic. For 2010, a 175-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder was re-introduced to the lineup, along with a 276-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 and a new six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic, but the small third-row seat was dropped. The GLS trim level combines the four-cylinder engine with a standard six-speed manual and available automatic, while the SE gets only the 3.5-liter V-6 and the automatic. The Limited can be had with either engine, but only the automatic transmission. All automatic-transmission models can be fitted with all-wheel drive.
The current Santa Fe models are sold much like other Hyundai vehicles--in relatively few build combinations, and with a strong list of standard features. Alloy wheels are standard in all models, as are power windows and locks, cruise control, a USB port, and keyless entry. A navigation system includes a rearview camera system and real-time traffic, and XM satellite radio is available. Top Limited models get a standard power sunroof and exterior chrome accents, plus heated front seats, 605-watt Infinity surround sound, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Hyundai Santa Fe has been a strong safety performer as well, with the IIHS Top Safety Pick nod renewed for 2012.
A new Santa Fe is due for the 2013 model year.
