The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe continues to be one of the most compelling mid-size SUVs in its class. With modern design, updated technology, and improved safety features, it’s no wonder that families and SUV enthusiasts alike are considering it for their next vehicle. In this review, we’ll break down everything from trims and engine options to real-life driving experiences, so you can decide if this SUV is the right fit for you.
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Overview of the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe
Hyundai has redesigned the Santa Fe over the years to balance style, performance, and practicality. The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe brings subtle updates, including refreshed exterior styling and upgraded interior technology. Compared to previous models, it feels more refined on the road, with smoother handling and a quieter cabin.
In my personal experience driving the 2024 Santa Fe around city streets and highways, it impressed me with its responsive steering and comfortable ride. Families will appreciate the spacious seating, while daily commuters will enjoy its easy maneuverability.
What’s New for 2024
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe introduces a few key changes:
Slight exterior redesign with updated LED headlights and grille.
Enhanced infotainment options, including a larger touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
Additional driver-assistance features in select trims.
These changes make the Santa Fe more appealing in a crowded SUV market and demonstrate Hyundai’s commitment to both style and practicality.
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2024 Santa Fe is available in multiple trims to suit different budgets and preferences:
Base Trim Features
The base trim comes well-equipped, offering:
2.5L inline-4 engine
8-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth
Forward-collision assist with pedestrian detection
It’s a solid entry-level choice for those who want a reliable SUV without extra frills.
Mid-Level Trim Features
The mid-range trims, like the SEL and SEL Plus, add:
Heated front seats
Larger infotainment screen
Optional all-wheel drive
These trims strike a balance between affordability and premium features.
Top Trim Features
The highest trims, Limited and Calligraphy, focus on luxury and technology:
360-degree camera system
Head-up display
Premium leather upholstery
Prices range roughly from $30,000 for the base trim to $45,000 for the fully loaded Calligraphy, making it competitive in its segment.
Interior and Comfort Features
Inside the 2024 Santa Fe, Hyundai focuses on comfort and convenience:
Spacious seats with high-quality materials
Quiet cabin with minimal road noise
Ample cargo space (up to 72.1 cubic feet with rear seats folded)
The infotainment system has been upgraded with a 10.25-inch touchscreen in higher trims, offering wireless connectivity, navigation, and integration with voice assistants. Families will love the dual-zone climate control, and long drives feel comfortable thanks to well-padded seats and supportive lumbar designs.
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe offers two engine options:
2.5L naturally aspirated inline-4 – 191 hp and 181 lb-ft torque
2.5L turbocharged inline-4 – 277 hp and 311 lb-ft torque
The turbocharged engine provides more spirited acceleration and is perfect for highway driving or towing. Fuel efficiency ranges from 25–28 mpg in combined city/highway driving, depending on trim and drivetrain.
From personal test drives, the turbo engine felt surprisingly smooth for its power, and the transition between gears in the 8-speed automatic transmission was seamless. Even with a full family and cargo onboard, the Santa Fe handled inclines and highway merges with confidence.
Safety Features of the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe
Hyundai has emphasized safety in the 2024 Santa Fe, giving drivers peace of mind:
Forward-collision assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection
Blind-spot monitoring
Lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control
The SUV also performs well in crash tests, earning strong safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. For families, these features make it a compelling option in the mid-size SUV segment.
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe vs Competitors
When compared to rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, the Santa Fe stands out for:
Larger interior space and cargo capacity
Optional turbocharged engine
Premium features in higher trims
However, competitors may offer slightly better fuel efficiency or more aggressive styling. A real-life example: A family in California I spoke with switched from a CR-V to a Santa Fe for the extra space and luxury feel, especially on long road trips, and praised its quiet cabin and smooth ride.
Real-Life Case Study: Family Road Trip Experience
I had the chance to observe a family of four test the 2024 Santa Fe during a weekend road trip across New England. They noted:
Ample legroom for teenagers in the rear seats
Easy-to-use infotainment system for navigation and music
Smooth handling on winding roads and highways
Their feedback highlighted how the Santa Fe isn’t just about specs—it’s about real-life usability, comfort, and safety during everyday drives and extended trips.
Final Verdict: Is the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Worth Buying?
For those asking, “Is the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe worth buying?”, the answer is yes—especially if you want a reliable, safe, and comfortable mid-size SUV with modern technology and strong engine options.
Whether it’s commuting, weekend adventures, or family trips, the 2024 Santa Fe offers a balance of performance, comfort, and practicality that appeals to a wide range of drivers. If interior space, safety features, and optional turbo power matter to you, this SUV is a strong contender in its class.
“If you’re also considering a midsize SUV, check out our detailed review of the 2024 Chevy Traverse Z71 for features, performance, and specs.”
FAQs
What is the difference between the 2024 and 2025 Santa Fe?
The 2025 Santa Fe has minor styling updates and tech improvements over the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe.
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