Used 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV Crossover Review & Ratings

Performance

Although fuel economy is already available for the Sport model, it has not yet been revealed for the extended wheel base, 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Crossover SUV. This longer version received a 3.3-liter V6 engine that will produce 290 horsepower and 252 pound-feet of torque. This V6 engine is not available for the Sport. It only comes paired up with a six-speed automatic transmission as well.

The Santa Fe is a front-wheel drive vehicle, but all-wheel drive is optional. Most consumers will appreciate the peace-of-mind that the all-wheel drive brings knowing that the powertrain can adjust to quickly changing road conditions.

This thoughtful V6 engine provides an effortless flow of power using fuel-efficient advancements, including D-CWT and GDI. It is the perfect engine to tow a pair of jet skis, snowmobiles or a small boat with.

The verdict is still out as far as handling and ride quality. Since the Santa Fe does not have a fully independent suspension, it is safe to assume that major bumps will be felt by passengers.

Technology

• Proximity Key: Never fumble for your key while your hands are full with groceries again. This additional feature will recognize you as your approach the vehicle with the key in your pocket.
• Blue Link: A 4-inch TFT-LCD cluster offers the latest information and entertainment options with audio and navigation. Remote start can be added on.
• Bluetooth: This wireless data link allow you to answer, send and end calls without using your hands.
• Power Tailgate: Load and unload your Santa Fe with ease thanks to this available feature that opens your tailgate without using your hands.

Safety

The extended wheel base is all new for 2013, so it is unknown how Santa Fe will score as far as crash tests go. However, Hyundai is well-known for continuously receiving perfect scores, just as the 2012 Santa Fe with the smaller wheel base did.

An additional airbag comes on Santa Fe that you won’t often find elsewhere. It is placed in front of the knees of the driver so in the event of a collision, it keeps the individual from submarining under the dash. Other safety features include:

• 4-wheel ABS
• Tire pressure monitoring
• Post-collision safety system
• Stability control
• Child seat anchors
• Emergency braking assist
• Traction control
• Front seatbelt pretensioners
• Electronic brakeforce distribution

Appearance

The exterior of the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe is one that will be turning a lot of heads. The fluidic sculpted design language adds character lines to the aerodynamic flow. A bold new grille and front bumper are highlighted by the stylish and deep set headlamps while chrome artistically placed on the door handles adds the finishing touch.

Comfort

The interior of the Santa Fe is a real showstopper. First of all, new for 2013 is seating for seven passengers. A bench seat in the middle row allows walkthrough space on the side to reach the rear bench seat. It is unknown just how roomy or comfortable this rear seat is though.

The dash looks so much more luxurious over last year’s model. Controls are at your fingertips and cup holders and small storage areas are found throughout, even in the third row seat.

Cargo

Santa Fe will be blowing its competition away with cargo space. In fact, it may even make large sport utility vehicles look bad. Behind the third row, there is 13.4 cubic feet. Fold that bench down and you have 41 cubic feet. With both rows folded, you are granted 80 cubic feet!