The confident base trim of the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe gets some additional features this year, but otherwise the lineup of this compact crossover remains the same. That means hill-decent control and low rolling resistance tires now come standard on the GLS trim – more features for an already well-equipped base.
With features like heated power mirrors, Bluetooth, USB and iPod interface, satellite radio and 17-inch alloys, it’s easy to forget the GLS is the entry-level trim. Cruise control, air conditioning and a tilt and telescoping steering wheel only add to the confusion, especially when you can drive away in one for a little over 20 grand. It gets the 2.4-liter Theta II engine as the standard mill, an increasingly ubiquitous all-aluminum engine that’s appeared in other Hyundai and Kia vehicles. It offers 175 hp and 169 lb-ft of torque at just 3,750 rpm. This provides some increased around-town drivability, and with its standard 6-speed automatic transmission, you’ll get increased efficiency as well. Around town you can expect 20 city mpg, while out on the highway you’ll get as high as 28 with FWD.
For more power, there’s also the option of the 3.5-liter V6 made newly optional last year. It produces 276 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque with only a slight penalty on fuel consumption, still managing 20/26 mpg. That same engine comes standard in the SE trim, which will also get you 18-inch alloys, leather inserts for the upholstery, a power driver's seat and weather features like automatic headlights, fog lights and windshield wiper de-icers. The Limited trim gives you even more options, including the possibility of choosing either the 2.4- or the 3.5-liter engine. Regardless of engine chosen, you’ll get a sunroof, full leather upholstery, heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate controls. And with every trim you get class-leading cargo capacity of 78 cubic feet, including the handy under-floor storage bins.
There’s no doubt the Santa Fe represents a great deal in the compact crossover class, but there are sacrifices to be made. At this price point some shortcomings should be expected, and the Santa Fe delivers. Many have complained about a sloppy suspension and a spongy brake pedal feel, and some have called the steering far too lazy. While the 2.4-liter engine manages to make do around town, once you call on it for passing or merging power, the transmission exhibits a reluctance to downshift that can be frustrating. Once it finds the necessary gear, the 2.4-liter screams and groans until a cruising speed is achieved. More expensive entrants in the class have more refined base engines, but they also cost more.
The 3.5 has plenty of power and resultantly less need to downshift. It’s much more pleasant both around town and on the highway, especially when you start filling this crossover up with passengers and cargo. The Limited trim’s sunroof can also impede on headroom for taller occupants, and visibility is hampered by thick pillars and headrests that always seem in the way.
The big issue with the Santa Fe is not the suspension, it’s not the cheap interior materials, and it’s not the spongy brakes. Styling wins the day, and the Santa Fe simply does not measure up to competitors. Continually looking 5 years behind the times doesn’t help you stay competitive, but it does seem to keep prices down. Plus, when was the last time you saw a Santa Fe on the road? For not a lot of money you could possibly be driving one of the most exclusive crossovers on the market.
