Hyundai Santa Fe: 2014 Seven-Seat SUV Comparison
Even in its entry trim level the Santa Fe has a lot to offer, especially where value for money is concerned2014 Seven-Seat SUV Comparison
EXECUTION OF INTENDED PURPOSE
The Hyundai Santa Fe is the lightest and dimensionally smallest vehicle on test, and it draws a distinctly different silhouette than its rivals. And yet it packs a punch that saw it match or better each of the competition in at least one criterion across this category. While the aggregate score saw the seven-seat Korean finish middle of the pack, we came away most impressed.
Ergonomics were a highlight for the Santa Fe, equaling that experienced in the considerably more expensive CX-9 and Pathfinder.
Points of difference for the Santa Fe included a 40:20:40-split second-row configuration, which gives the option to flip each seating position independently. Travelling four-up in the back, you can flip the centre seat for increased vision and to create a better sense of connection with third-row occupants.
On the other hand, the sporty Hyundai was marked down for limited access to the third row as well as the smallest rear windows, leaving occupants feeling a little enclosed and unloved.
With seven-seat configuration in play, the Santa Fe offered 516 litres of load space, making it best on test.
FIT, FINISH AND FINESSE
Looking at the history of Hyundai's Santa Fe, it almost beggars belief the latest version is as refined as it is. Line it up against the Mazda CX-7 and it's right on target, with small, consistent panel gaps, excellent paint that sees no colour change between metal and plastic panels and a virtually fault-free interior featuring quality plastics and a soft-touch dash.
It's trimmed off nicely around the inner A-pillars, while if you check around the glove box lid you'll find no rough edges there, either.
The doors are double sealed, of course, and the door-frame welding is about on a par with the Mazda. The carpet is only of average quality, though.
Under-bonnet, the Santa Fe is super neat and tidy, yet uses minimal engine disguising in the form of moulded plastic covers, while the neatly finished, flat-floor boot has the benefit of a cargo cover that can be stowed beneath the floor when not in use.
ON THE ROAD
The Santa Fe’s 2.4-litre petrol engine may not have the mumbo of some on this test but it is a refined and willing unit that fulfills most tasks with aplomb. The 141kW and 242Nm aspirated four-cylinder is happiest between 2000-5000rpm, though will rev harder when required.
Shifting smoothly between its six ratios, the automatic transmission responds promptly to throttle input and changes in grade. Shifts are nearly imperceptible and with well-spaced ratios, fuel economy is kept quite low (we achieved an 8.5L/100km average).
The suspension compromise also impressed, and on higher-profile 17-inch rubber the ride is comfortable. Handling is confident and the steering accurate and well assisted.
A responsive and well-modulated pedal provides the Santa Fe with a strong braking action, while the ingress of road and wind noise is suitably attenuated.
VALUE FOR MONEY
The new Hyundai Santa Fe range was launched in 2012 and is priced from $37,990 to $51,490. The Santa Fe Active variant on test is priced at $40,490 (plus on-road costs) with metallic paint attracting a further $595.00.
A five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty bestows the Hyundai with the most comprehensive after-sales support of any vehicle on test. Roadside assistance is included for the first 12 months.
Capped price servicing is offered for the first 40 months or 50,000km (whichever comes first) with the first service interval charged at $319. The Santa Fe requires servicing at 12-month or 15,000km intervals (whichever comes first).
Vehicle valuation guide redbook.com.au shows that a five-year old Santa Fe holds a retained value of 44 per cent, the highest of all vehicles featured in this comparison.
SUITABLE INTEGRATION OF TECHNOLOGY
The Santa Fe is unquestionably way upmarket of its more utilitarian predecessor, with its bells-and-whistles interior and quality presentation.
The HVAC system is clean and simple to use and the steering wheel adds a new dimension to the term ‘multi-function’, as it is festooned with buttons for the sound system, Bluetooth telephony, cruise control and the trip computer.
There are ventilation outlets for centre- and third-row passengers, but the third-row occupants are inhibited by tiny, up-sloping, claustrophobic side windows. Sun visors that can be extended to help minimise glare from the side windows are a good feature, as are the 40:20:40 split-fold centre-row seats that flip forward with one flick from boot-located levers.
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