If you’re in the market for a spacious and comfortable SUV, look no further than the Hyundai Santa Fe. With its raised seating position, excellent visibility, and generous safety features, this vehicle is sure to impress. In this review, we’ll delve into the key features and prices of the Hyundai Santa Fe.
Excellent Visibility and Safety Features
The Hyundai Santa Fe offers great visibility with its large side windows and thin pillars, minimizing any blind spots at junctions. While the rear windscreen and windows behind the back doors are smaller, Hyundai has compensated for this by equipping all Santa Fe models with rear parking sensors and a reversing camera. For added convenience and peace of mind, high-spec Premium SE cars even come with a self-parking system.
A Smooth and Comfortable Ride
The Santa Fe delivers a smooth and comfortable ride, effortlessly absorbing bumps and potholes. One contributing factor to this comfort is the rear air suspension that comes as standard on seven-seat versions. Similar to what you’d find in a Mercedes E-Class Estate, the cushion of pressurized air separates you from the road and keeps the car level when carrying heavy loads.
At high speeds, the Santa Fe remains comfortable and quiet, with minimal wind and tire noise. Its serene cabin makes it an ideal companion for long journeys, surpassing even the Land Rover Discovery Sport in terms of relaxation.
Easy to Drive, Despite Soft Suspension
While the Santa Fe’s soft suspension may cause it to lean more on twisty country roads, it compensates with its ease of driving. The light steering, although it can be vague at times, makes maneuvering a breeze. Opting for an automatic gearbox further enhances the driving experience, as it shifts gears quickly and smoothly. Combine this with the standard-fit cruise control system, and you have a stress-free companion for long drives.
Impressive Safety Credentials
The Hyundai Santa Fe received a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP in 2012. Although safety standards have become stricter since then, the Santa Fe still offers robust protection. However, newer models like the Skoda Kodiaq, which achieved a five-star rating in 2017, may provide even more advanced safety features.
For added peace of mind, the range-topping Premium SE cars include lane-departure warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which warns you of approaching vehicles when pulling out of a parking space. Additionally, there’s an optional Convenience Pack or the top-spec Endurance Edition models that offer automatic emergency braking, capable of stopping the car if it detects an obstacle ahead.
FAQs
1. Is the Hyundai Santa Fe suitable for long journeys?
Absolutely! The Santa Fe’s comfortable suspension, quiet cabin, and ample legroom make it an excellent choice for long trips.
2. Does the Hyundai Santa Fe have good safety features?
Yes, the Santa Fe offers a range of safety features, including rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking in certain models.
3. How does the Hyundai Santa Fe compare to other SUVs in its class?
While the Santa Fe may lean more on twisty roads and have light steering, its overall comfort, ease of driving, and safety features make it a strong contender in the SUV market.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Santa Fe (2012-2017) offers a comfortable and safe driving experience, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a reliable SUV. With its excellent visibility, smooth ride, and generous safety features, it ticks all the boxes for a family-friendly vehicle. So, if you’re looking for a spacious and comfortable ride, the Hyundai Santa Fe is certainly worth considering.