2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

In an effort to keep pace with the competition, Hyundai decided to completely overhaul the Santa Fe. Not only does the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe have a more dazzling appearance, but it also benefits from an improved interior design. However, Hyundai's great warranty coverage still remains a big selling point. Although the new Santa Fe is an upgrade over its predecessor, there are plenty of other great options in this segment. Does the resigned Santa Fe outshine today's other small crossovers?

What's New for 2019?

Hyundai radically transformed the crossover's interior and exterior. With the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe being a redesigned model, you'll also have access to a number of new features.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe – The Pros

1. Satisfying Turbocharged Engine

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe comes standard with a naturally aspirated four-cylinder. While this power source is adequate, you'll be better off with the available turbocharged engine. It develops a more suitable 235 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The extra power is especially evident when accelerating from a stop. Although the turbocharged Santa Fe is not quite as efficient, it's designed to deliver the optimum performance on regular unleaded gas.

2. Smarter AWD System

Front-wheel drive is standard on the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe. However, you can opt for Hyundai's HTRAC AWD system. It's now smarter than before. When diminished traction is detected, special sensors help the system to properly distribute power to the wheels. Drivers will certainly enjoy HTRAC's versatility. While the system effectively improves handling on the pavement, it also aids the crossover's ability to maneuver on dirt roads.

3. Smooth Handler

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe has a very stable character on the road. Although the Santa Fe sits higher off the ground than a sedan, it does not have nearly as much body roll as a traditional SUV. This quality will appeal to the drivers who prefer car-like handling. Because of the new Santa Fe's responsive driving dynamics, you will feel more in control. Even on curvy roadways, the Santa Fe does not lose its balance.

4. Very Handsome Exterior

Hyundai did a great job of sprucing up the crossover's exterior. It's among the best-looking SUVs of the year. The Santa Fe's sporty grille and thin projector headlights help it to stand out on a crowded highway. While the base SE model looks good enough, a few upgrades are found on the upper trims. Available 18-inch alloy wheels help give the crossover a meaner stance. Some of the hottest paint colors include Lava Orange, Stormy Sea, and Rainforest.

5. Great Warranty Gives You a Peace of Mind

When buying the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe, you'll receive a great warranty package. Hyundai's powertrain warranty covers the engine and transmission for 100,000 miles. A 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty gives buyers more protection. For five years, drivers can also enjoy 24-hour roadside assistance. Very few competitors provide you with nearly as many perks. The extra protection allows you to ride worry-free for years to come.

6. Rewards You With More Standard Features

The new 2019 Hyundai Santa is an even better bang for the buck. It boasts a greater number of standard features. Some of the goodies include a 7.0-inch display with smartphone integration, Bluetooth, and a total of four USB ports. Blind-spot monitoring and forward collision mitigation now come standard as well. This is a lot of equipment for an SUV that starts at less than $26,000.

7. New Safe Exit Assist and Rear Occupant Alert Features

All versions of the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe benefit from a standard Smart Sense safety package. Hyundai has also added some new features that families will love. Safe Exist Assist is a technology that makes passengers more aware of their surroundings. By using blind-spot sensors, the system is able to let kids know when it's safe to open their doors. Meanwhile, parents will be thankful for Rear Occupant Alert. It honks the horn to alert you of a child that's been left behind.

8. Premium Sound System Thumps Hard

The Santa Fe's standard six-speaker stereo system sounds average. True music lovers will be left wanting more. If you love to crank up the volume, don't miss out on the 12-speaker Infinity sound system. It offers an especially great blend of power and clarity. A 630-watt amp helps ensure the best possible audio quality. Clari-Fi also promotes a cleaner sound. This technology is a major benefit for the drivers who like to stream music.

9. Bigger and More Spacious

In comparison to the previous generation, the new 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is a bit bigger. This means your family will be able to experience an extra measure of comfort. When sitting in the backseat, passengers will certainly have more freedom than before. You can also benefit from the crossover's spacious cargo hold. If your family needs to safekeep certain valuables, the underfloor storage compartments will come in handy.

10. Luxurious

Sitting atop the lineup is the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate. It comes loaded with some quite luxurious features. While adjustable lumbar support helps drivers to maintain a good posture, a top-down camera helps you to safely navigate parking areas. Some of the other upgrades include ventilated seats, wireless smartphone charging, and an 8.0-inch touch screen.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe – The Cons

1. Base Engine Doesn't Have Enough Spunk

Some drivers will crave the base engine's extra fuel savings. However, don't expect it to deliver an exciting performance. When equipped with the standard 185-horsepower engine, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe's acceleration is much slower. If you're seeking a more inspiring performance, choose the turbocharged engine. The additional muscle also enables you to tow a heavier load.

2. Not Suitable for Serious Off-Roading

When equipped with Hyundai's updated HTRAC AWD system, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe will perform very well in the snow. It should also have no trouble toppling an average off-road trail. However, don't attempt to take this crossover on a hardcore adventure. Hyundai does not offer the Santa Fe with rugged hardware such skid plates and off-road shock absorbers. Drivers who need a crossover that can conquer challenging terrain should check out the 2019 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk.

3. Less Economical Than Some Competitors

While the new Santa Fe is not bad on gas, it does lag behind some competitors. For example, the 2019 Honda CR-V can return up to 34 mpg at highway speeds. Meanwhile, you'll find the 2019 Mazda CX-5 to be a lot more efficient in urban areas. Luckily, neither of the Santa Fe's engines require the use of premium gas.

4. No Model Geared Towards Sporty Driving

Very few people will have any major complaints about the Santa Fe's driving dynamics. However, the availability of a true sport model would be nice. From a performance standpoint, the Ford Escape is a bit more engaging.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

Before you decide to buy a new 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe, be sure to test drive the 2019 Honda CR-V. For good reason, the Honda CR-V is among America's favorite family vehicles. It hits the bullseye is several categories, including safety and fuel efficiency. You should also take a look at the 2019 Mazda CX-5, which delivers very precise handling. Although the Mazda CX-5 may not offer as much rear-seat space as the Santa Fe, its cabin has a more upscale feel. In terms of warranty coverage, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe dominates these two rivals.

Conclusion

When searching for a small crossover, you'll be wise to give the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe some strong consideration. The new model's more provocative exterior styling is sure to attract a lot of younger buyers. While the base engine returns decent fuel economy, some buyers will be won over by the optional engine's greater power. Hyundai's HTRAC AWD system also makes the Santa Fe a better performer on and off the road. Families will especially enjoy this crossover's spaciousness. This year, the entire lineup benefits from an array of advanced safety features. Although the Santa Fe's long-term reliability is unknown at this point, Hyundai's class-leading warranty will ease your fears.