2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Pros vs Cons

The crossover SUV segment has evolved very quickly over the past few years as consumers demand a better combination of performance and interior cabin space. The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe is a good example of how automakers have been reshaping the family-size crossover wagon. Seating seven passengers comfortably and built to last, the Santa Fe is now clearly at the top of the pyramid. Not only does it provide plenty of power along with superior handling qualities, this vehicle also offers a good measure of luxury and style at an affordable cost.

What's New For 2014

The Santa Fe was redesigned a year ago, and the 2014 model comes with just a few tweaks to the standard and optional equipment. Ventilated front seats are now available, and the uplevel trim includes rear parking assistance. The engine and powertrain remains the same, and buyers have the same number of color choices for both the interior and exterior.

10 Reasons to Buy A 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe

1) Powerful V6 Engine.

The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe is powered by a 3.3L V6 that churns out a total of 290 horsepower. This is tops in its class, and drivers will be thoroughly impressed by the acceleration even when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo. An AWD version is optional, and the transmission is 6-speed automatic. This model goes from zero to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds, faster than most competing crossovers.

2) Elegant On The Inside.

Much thought went into the cabin design on this crossover. The quality of the materials is excellent. The upholstery is very nice, and the seats are quite comfortable. Last year, Hyundai tinkered with the arrangement of the instrumentation, and drivers are more than satisfied with the layout of the controls. The driver information center with touchscreen is perfectly positioned and easy to use. Ventilated seats are now available.

3) Top-Quality Navigation System.

The electronic interface is one of the most advanced in the automotive industry. There are phone, info, map, route, and setup buttons located directly beneath the touchscreen. The larger display is part of the available Technology Package. The base GLS trim comes with a 4.3-inch touchscreen as part of the audio system.

4) Blue Link Telematics System.

Highly innovative and very advanced, Hyundai's Blue Link is standard equipment on both the GLS and Limited trims. The system can be accessed via a smartphone to help locate an address or gas station, remotely start the vehicle, or call for assistance. Drivers can perform theft recovery or troubleshoot mechanical issues using the Blue Link technology.

5) Long List of Convenience Features.

Very few crossover wagons or full-size SUVs offer such a plateload of standard features on the base trim. The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, second- and third-row air conditioning controls, 8-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The rearview camera is also standard equipment on the base trim.

6) Optional Features On Both Trims.

Both the GLS and Limited trims can be accessorized to become truly luxurious vehicles. Available features include a blind spot detection system, power liftgate, leather upholstery, and rear seat window shades. The Technology package adds a sunroof, heated steering wheel and heated second-row seats, and rear parking sensors. Buyers who choose the Premium package on the Limited trim also get the addition of captain's chairs in the second row seating area.

7) A Roomy Interior. Few of the competing models offer such comfort in the passenger cabin. The second- and third-row controls are thoughtfully placed and easy to reach. Unlike many crossover wagons, the 2014 Santa Fe offers plenty of legroom in the third-row seating area.

8) Advanced Safety Equipment.

Both the GLS and Limited trims come with antilock brakes, advanced traction and stability control, and rearview camera. The rear parking assist sensors and blind spot monitoring systems are optional equipment. Braking distance for the vehicle is average for its segment. The IIHS has issued good ratings for front and side-impact collisions as well as for roof strength.

9) A Quiet Ride.

This is one of the quietest crossover models when operated at cruising speeds. There is plenty of sound-dampening technology, and very little wind noise is heard inside the cabin. The powerful engine is also very quiet, especially when the vehicle is cruising above 60 mph.

10) Excellent Warranty.

Hyundai offers an exceptional five-year new vehicle warranty as well as a 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty covering the engine and powertrain. Owners of a new 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe are also covered by a seven-year anti-perforation warranty and five full years of roadside assistance.

Reasons You May Not Want To Buy A 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe

1) Poorer Fuel Efficiency.

Hyundai will have to address this issue very soon, as most competing crossovers are now getting at least 23 mpg highway. The Santa Fe tops out at about 21 mpg, and this drops a bit for the AWD version.

2) Sluggish Handling When Fully Loaded.

Although this model is a quiet ride, it handles rather sluggishly when loaded with cargo. There is an increase in vibration, especially when cornering. Some competing models are more responsive.

3) Small Cargo Area.

When the rear seats are not in use, the cargo volume is moderate at best. When all seats are upright, there is less than 14 cubic feet of storage area, far less than the volume offered with larger wagon-style models.

Conclusion

Every single aspect of the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe - from the interior volume to the horsepower to the hauling capability - can be bested by purchasing a different model. However, the total package is unbeatable, and the elegant style of the interior cannot be matched for the price paid. The sticker price is more than reasonable, and owners will have themselves a vehicle that maintains its value for many years. The Santa Fe will certainly appeal to those who are looking for a base trim vehicle. The number of standard features is amazing, and the technology is ahead of the pack.