2021 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a choice between SE, SEL, and Limited trims, with the "2.0T" versions providing a turbocharged engine for enhanced power and performance. All-wheel drive was optional, allowing the automatic transmission to distribute power to the rear wheels when needed. Buyers could select from various paint colors, interior hues, and dealer-installed accessories. The Limited 2.0T trim, with its daring design, featured a dual-cowl dashboard and diamond-textured speaker grilles, though the materials didn't quite match the high-style design. Despite this, the build quality was exceptional, and the controls operated smoothly.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe introduced a more upscale look with new gasoline engines and a hybrid powertrain. The lineup included SE, SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy trims, with hybrids available in Blue, SEL Premium, and Limited. The exterior featured a redesigned front end with new running lights and grille, while the interior boasted new colors, patterns, and a bridge-style center console. The Calligraphy trim, with its premium leather and panoramic sunroof, exuded quality and sophistication. Despite the exterior's acquired taste, the interior improvements and added features made the 2021 model feel like a bargain.

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe's base engine was a 185-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder, but the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 235 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, was the preferred choice. This engine provided better performance, especially at higher altitudes, and was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Santa Fe offered a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and achieved an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in combined driving. The driving experience was pleasant, with a smooth ride and decent handling, though it lacked driver engagement.

For 2021, the Santa Fe introduced three new powertrains. The SE and SEL trims featured a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter engine, while the hybrids combined a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with electric components for a total output of 226 hp. The Limited and Calligraphy trims boasted a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The 2021 model offered improved driving dynamics, with better body control and athletic handling. Fuel efficiency was comparable to the 2020 model, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg in combined driving.

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe provided thoughtful interior features, including eight-way power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a comfortable rear seat with air vents and sunshades. However, its cargo space was limited, with 35.9 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 71.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The hands-free liftgate was a convenient feature, opening automatically when the key fob was nearby.

In 2021, the Santa Fe continued to offer dual-zone climate control and stain-resistant fabric, with leather available on higher trims. The Calligraphy trim elevated the interior with premium Nappa leather and a suede-like headliner. The rear seat was spacious and comfortable, with sliding and reclining capabilities. Cargo space was slightly improved, with 36.4 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 72.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The smart liftgate remained a useful feature, though it could open unintentionally.

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen, stereo control knobs, and shortcut buttons. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with additional features like SiriusXM radio and Blue Link connected services on higher trims. The Limited trim added a larger display, navigation, and a surround-view camera.

The 2021 Santa Fe Calligraphy was packed with technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, surround-view camera, and head-up display. The infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with the basic screen, while the larger screen included upgraded voice recognition and a Harman Kardon sound system. Blue Link connected services were enhanced, though a WiFi hotspot was absent. The Digital Key and Remote Smart Parking Assist were innovative features, allowing for remote vehicle operation.

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. It included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The SEL trim added blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning, while the Limited trim featured a Blind-Spot View Monitor.

In 2021, the Santa Fe offered advanced safety features, including pedestrian and cyclist detection, junction turning assistance, and Safe Exit Assist. The rear-occupant alert system was standard, with an ultrasonic version available on higher trims. The Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist enhanced safety, and the Santa Fe earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS with LED projector headlights.