The Hyundai Santa Fe has gone through a remarkable evolution since the third-generation model first hit the streets in 2013. Originally designed as a three-row SUV, the Santa Fe morphed into a smaller two-row model for the fourth generation before reverting to its roomy roots with the debut of the current fifth-generation model in 2024. It’s a promising return to form for the midsize SUV, but the extra passenger and cargo capacity aren’t the only things to love about the fifth-generation Santa Fe. Hyundai has also placed an increased emphasis on off-road ability. The XRT trim turns the three-row Santa Fe into a ready-made adventure vehicle perfect for those seeking a spacious family ride that still includes all the comfort, convenience, and safety features drivers have come to expect from the crossover segment. If you’re searching for a new daily driver or considering a used Hyundai Santa Fe for sale, you’ve come to the right place. Join us as we track the SUV’s progress and learn how Hyundai has managed to keep up with changing trends to offer customers one of the best three-row options on the market.
Third Generation: 2013 to 2018
The Santa Fe was already one of the strongest entries in the midsize segment, but Hyundai’s commitment to continual improvement saw the brand make some major changes with the advent of the third-generation model in 2013. The most important upgrade would obviously be the three-row design, a notable departure from the second-generation model available in both two- and three-row configurations. A two-row version, dubbed the Santa Fe Sport, was spun off the traditional model, allowing Hyundai to cater to those seeking a smaller option without hampering the SUV’s evolution. The seven-passenger Santa Fe traded on its ample interior space and premium features, offering up to 80 cu.ft. of cargo capacity and a host of high-end features including an all-new eight-inch infotainment system, intelligent connectivity features, and a full suite of advanced safety tech. Those who appreciate a little extra legroom could opt for the second-row captain’s chairs, which made the Santa Fe a more practical choice for fast-growing teens and other lanky riders. The third-generation Santa Fe also represented a sea change from a powertrain perspective, with Hyundai dropping the manual transmission and introducing a range of potent new engines. A 290-hp 3.3L V6 replaced the outgoing 3.5L version, while a new 2.0L turbo I-4 upped the SUV’s profile from an efficiency perspective.
The third-generation Santa Fe was one of the first models to embrace Hyundai’s new Storm Edge design language. The aggressive aesthetic emphasized elegant lines, yet the Santa Fe retained a strong, athletic look that spoke to its considerable performance potential. A new hexagonal grille with strong chrome accents gave the SUV a more imposing appearance. New headlights and foglights helped to differentiate the new Santa Fe from its second-generation predecessor. It was a dynamic new look for the Santa Fe, and one that proved Hyundai wasn’t content to rest on its laurels.
Fourth Generation: 2019 to 2023
The fourth-generation Santa Fe saw Hyundai revert to the traditional two-row design, but that doesn’t tell the whole story. The new model essentially took the place of the two-row Santa Fe Sport, while a new three-row model known as the Santa Fe XL retained the three-row design. It was more of a marketing change than anything, but drivers should be aware of the distinction before seeking out a used Santa Fe for sale. Aside from this shift in seating, the Santa Fe didn’t undergo any major changes as it moved into the fourth generation, with Hyundai employing an “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it” approach to the popular SUV.
That’s not to say that the Santa Fe didn’t make some major strides in a few key areas. Hyundai put safety at the forefront when it came to the fourth-generation Santa Fe, equipping the midsize model with its cutting-edge SmartSense technology across the entire lineup. The advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) included many features that have now become par for the course in the modern auto market, which just goes to show how Hyundai’s forward-thinking strategy has long allowed the brand to outpace its competitors. The SmartSense package featured forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control feature with stop-and-go technology, making the fourth-generation Santa Fe particularly well-suited for dense morning rush hours and frustrating highway traffic. Rear cross-traffic alert with collision-avoidance assist marked one of the Santa Fe’s more impressive features, but the real standout would have to be the all-new Rear Occupant Alert system. This industry-first feature used an ultrasonic sensor to detect the movement in the backseat, ensuring that kids, pets, and other VIPs wouldn’t get left behind when the vehicle is parked. SmartSense was quickly recognized for its exceptional abilities and earned the fourth-generation Santa Fe a stellar five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ nod from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
A mid-cycle refresh for the 2021 model year saw the 2.4L base engine replaced with a new 2.5L I-4 design that provided a modest uptick in power. However, the introduction of a new turbocharged option represented one of the most significant enhancements. A little forced induction allowed the new 2.5L mill to produce up to 281 hp, providing a more thrilling driving experience without compromising efficiency. Best of all, the turbocharged engine was paired with a fresh eight-speed dual-clutch automatic that upped both the SUV’s efficiency and acceleration. Hyundai also threw a new hybrid option into the mix with a 1.6L engine that ushered in a new era of fuel economy with a combined rating of 33 MPG.
Fifth Generation: 2024 to Present
The fifth-generation Santa Fe might be the most intriguing version to date, with Hyundai making some bold moves to cater to changing tastes and bring the SUV firmly into the modern era. Offered as a three-row, seven-seat model, the current Santa Fe boasts almost 80 cu.ft. of cargo space, seven seats and, most importantly, a bold look that’s sure to turn some heads. The SUV embraces new H-shaped headlights and a boxy design that’s unlike any model in the Santa Fe’s 25-year history. The squared-off body is reminiscent of the off-road SUVs that dominate the high-end of the luxury market, but these sporty credentials aren’t superficial.
Hyundai has extended the crossover’s wheelbase and reduced its front overhang, which is a recipe for success when it comes to tackling challenging off-road conditions. The XRT trim underscores the Santa Fe’s off-road ability, providing the SUV with a host of rugged upgrades that are sure to come in handy when the going gets rough. In addition to its dark exterior trim, exclusive 18-inch wheels, and standard sunroof, the XRT also gains all-terrain tires and a 110-volt power outlet that enables drivers to run a wide range of accessories, appliances, and electronics no matter how far off the beaten path they might stray. Adventure seekers will appreciate the new boxy body, which provides the perfect platform for a cargo box or rooftop tent for those nights spent sleeping under the stars. Naturally, the XRT comes with all-wheel drive as a standard feature, but it’s the extra 1.3 inches of ground clearance that’ll really make the difference when you’re traversing rocky terrain or clawing through some mud on the way to your campsite or cabin. Throw in a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs, and it’s easy to make the case for the XRT as the most off-road-capable Santa Fe model to date.
A turbocharged 2.5L I-4 provides drivers with 277 hp and is paired with the same eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission found on the fourth-generation model. This engine offers the perfect synthesis of performance and efficiency, easily motivating the three-row model while allowing the Santa Fe to notch an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined. A separate hybrid model ups that number to 36 MPG, though it lacks the XRT trim.
The fifth-generation Santa Fe also earns points for its tech-heavy interior, which includes a number of clever gadgets that dramatically elevate the SUV’s convenience without inflating the price. Dual wireless smartphone chargers keep everyone’s devices juiced up and ready to go, while three-zone climate controls ensure everyone is as cool or warm as needed. Two 12.3-inch displays dominate the dashboard. One is for the SUV’s infotainment system, and the other is for a customizable digital gauge cluster that puts all the relevant vehicle metrics right at your fingertips. Of course, the Santa Fe comes with all the charging and connectivity options you could ask for, from fast-charging USB-C ports to wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The three-row crossover’s most unique feature would probably have to be the UV-C sterilization compartment located in the glovebox. Perfect for disinfecting phones, tablets, and other devices, the sterilization compartment solves a problem we didn’t even know we had.
Into the Future
The Hyundai Santa Fe hasn’t just kept up with the times. It’s helped to push the crossover segment forward by boldly going where few models dared. It’s easy for automakers to get stuck in a rut, play it safe, and let other brands take all the risks, but Hyundai has adopted an entirely different approach that’s made it a leader in today’s market. This isn’t just true of spacious, efficient, and stylish models like the Santa Fe, but of the company as a whole. Hyundai’s generous warranty plan is just one example of the brand’s unorthodox business model. While other brands tend to offer relatively limited coverage, Hyundai proudly stands behind all of its vehicles with a generous policy that includes limited warranty coverage for the first five years or 60,000 miles of ownership and a powertrain warranty that covers the first decade or 100,000 miles. That sort of warranty will allow drivers to hit the road with confidence, and goes a long way towards upping the Santa Fe’s value.
