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Comparative Evaluation: Hyundai Santa Fe 3-Row SUV

Third-row passengers in Hyundai Santa Fe encounter headroom and visibility problems, while the vehicle excels in driver satisfaction, according to our findings.

Hyundai Santa Fe 30 evaluated against seven-seater rivals
Hyundai Santa Fe 30 evaluated against seven-seater rivals

Comparative Evaluation: Hyundai Santa Fe 3-Row SUV

Hyundai Santa Fe 30 (2016 Model) Review

The Hyundai Santa Fe 30, a part of the third generation (2012-2018) of the Santa Fe SUV, is a family-friendly vehicle that offers a smooth and refined driving experience.

Specifications

The Santa Fe 30 typically comes equipped with a 3.3-litre V6 GDi petrol engine, producing approximately 290 hp. However, in some markets, a 2.4-litre inline-4 petrol engine was also available. The vehicle is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and is available in both 5-seat and 7-seat configurations. The standard drivetrain is front-wheel drive, but an optional all-wheel drive (AWD) is available.

Fuel Economy and Features

Fuel economy for the Santa Fe 30 is approximately 17-20 mpg city and 23-26 mpg highway, depending on the drivetrain. The vehicle comes equipped with safety features such as multiple airbags, stability control, ABS brakes, and available driver aids. Comfort features include leather seats, touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and a panoramic sunroof.

Review (circa October 2016, Wheels magazine style)

The Santa Fe was praised for its smooth and refined V6 engine performance, comfortable ride quality, and spacious interior. It was considered a good value family SUV with generous equipment levels. Critics noted that handling was competent though not sporty, and some interior materials could have been of higher quality. The third-row seating was adequate but best suited for children. Safety features and crash test ratings were strong selling points. Fuel economy was reasonable but not best in class.

Pricing and Test Results

As tested, the Hyundai Santa Fe 30 cost around $40,790. In tests, the vehicle achieved a 0-400m time of 15.5 seconds at 147.9 km/h, and a 0-100km/h time of 7.6 seconds. The vehicle's cargo capacity is 516 litres.

Competition

Other seven-seater options available at the time included the Toyota Kluger GX AWD, Volkswagen Multivan, Holden Captiva LT AWD, Nissan Pathfinder ST AWD, and Honda Odyssey VTi.

In summary, the Hyundai Santa Fe 30 offers a smooth and refined driving experience, with a comfortable ride and spacious interior. While it may not have the color and design flair of some of its competitors, it is a good value family SUV with strong safety features and reasonable fuel economy.

This Hyundai Santa Fe 30, with its spacious interior, can accommodate various lifestyle needs, including family road trips. If you're a car enthusiast who values car-maintenance, you might appreciate the available all-wheel drive for enhanced driving capabilities, especially during sports outdoor activities.

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