Model tested: 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 2.4 AWD
Engine: 2.4-liter, inline-4
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Horsepower: 185
Torque: 178 lb.-ft.
EPA ratings: 21/city, 27/highway, 24/combined
Base price: $37,350
As tested: $38,580
Overview: The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe was completely redesigned last year and only features a few changes.
Walkaround: The Santa Fe’s styling is sharper than the previous version, giving it a more aggressive — and upscale — appearance. Starting with the adoption of two-tiered headlights gracing the rest of the Hyundai lineup, the Santa Fe’s profile is handsome and distinctive, with the same chrome trim and the same 17-inch alloy wheels on the base SE as the top-of-the-line Limited — our test driver.
Interior: The cabin is curvaceous, featuring a broad dashboard, individually wrapping around the driver and passenger. An 8-inch infotainment screen sits front-and-center, with accessible climate controls and easy-to-read instrumentation. There’s also abundant storage. The Limited features leather upholstery, boasting high-quality, contrasting stitching. Ample cushioning makes the front seats quite comfortable, with excellent interior fit and finish. The Limited offers everything expected in a top-of-the-line model — including keyless start, Infinity premium audio with QuantumLogic surround sound, Sirius XM satellite radio, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, heated and cooled power front seats, heated rear seats, a surround-view camera system, heated steering wheel, wireless cellphone charger, a head-up display and automatic wipers. Five adults can ride contently in the Santa Fe, with lots of rear legroom — more than 40 inches — thanks to a nearly 3-inch increase in wheelbase and overall length. There’s 36 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat that nearly doubles to 71 with the rear seats folded down. There’s also a power liftgate for easy access.
Behind the Wheel: The 2020 Santa Fe offers competitive performance, a supple ride and a high-quality interior, plus excellent safety ratings. The standard 2.4-liter inline-4 in our test driver adequately powered it while the eight-speed automatic delivered smooth shifts, albeit somewhat leisurely — even in sport mode. While front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available on all models. Handling is well-managed but not particularly exciting, with light steering. But the best thing about the Santa Fe is its comfortable ride.
Bottom Line: The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe has evolved, becoming more sophisticated and featuring high-quality materials and excellent technology. The more we drove the Sante Fe, the more we liked it because there’s a lot to like.
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