Add standard all-wheel drive (AWD) to the midlevel 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe SE to behold the capable and well-equipped Santa Fe SE AWD compact crossover. This 5-passenger mini-ute boasts over 78 cubic feet of cargo space, accessible by folding the split rear seatbacks, as well as a standard roof rack, 18-inch alloy wheels, trailer wiring, a rear spoiler, power-adjustable driver’s seat and leather/cloth upholstery. Full power accessories, including heated outside mirrors, are also standard, as are cruise control, telescoping tilt-wheel steering, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter knob, air conditioning and simulated wood cabin accents. A 120-watt audio system with MP3-capable single-CD player and 6 speakers provides the tunes, complemented by satellite radio, a USB port and Bluetooth hands-free communications.
Options for this pint-size ute, meantime, include remote engine start, carpeted floor mats, cargo-management equipment, upgraded appearance bling, roof rails and a tow hitch. As well, the SE AWD is eligible for the available Premium Package, boasting a power sunroof, navigation (with 6.5-inch dash display), a rear-view camera and an upgraded 350-watt audio system with 7 speakers.
Powering the 2012 Santa Fe SE AWD is a variable-valve-timed (VVT) 3.5-liter V6 engine that pounds out 276 hp and, helped by the standard 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission, 248 lb-ft of torque. Equip the SE AWD with the available tow hitch and she’ll pull up to 3,500 pounds of trailer, with mileage estimated at 20 mpg city/26 highway. Descent control, by the way, is standard with the 6-speed automatic, while the full-time AWD system sports a locking and limited-slip mechanical center differential.
Safety is certainly not neglected in this capable crossover, with 4-wheel antilock brakes standard, along with traction and stability control. Front and rear head-curtain airbags also come standard, as do front side-mounted airbags and active front headrests, while secondary safety and security features include front fog/driving lights and a remote antitheft alarm.
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are available with average savings of $2,853 below market price
