2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

As Hyundai's first ever SUV model, the Santa Fe is known for its innate leadership skills. Carving a path to success as a full-size SUV in a barren lineup, the Hyundai Santa Fe made a big difference in this automaker's lineup. Helping Hyundai compete in a newly saturated SUV segment in the 1990s, the Santa Fe takes ownership of this brand's rise in popularity as a family transportation producer. Practicality forms the basis of this SUV until a slight upscale feel takes over. The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe does a great job of maintaining this effortless charisma in its newest model.

What's New for 2021?

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe does a great job of elevating its current noteworthy concepts, while integrating some new and fresh features along the way. With almost too many changes and upgrades to count in its 2021 model, there is hardly anything that was left untouched on the current Hyundai Santa Fe. To begin with, two brand new engines that offer more power than ever made the cut for 2021. In addition, a new Calligraphy trim level offered additional options for upgrade in this model. Across all trim levels, new and improved exterior design facets have emerged, too.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe – The Pros

The Hyundai Santa Fe has established its position as a reliable family SUV over the years, and its 2021 model is just as accommodating and impressive. Here are a few reasons why we like the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe:

1. The perfect blend of functional and athletic.

How often do you get to experience a full-size SUV that accommodates multiple consumers while maintaining a sporty appearance? It is not a feat that is generally conquered, but the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe does it well. With seating for up to five passengers, the Santa Fe also boasts a powerful turbocharged engine and upscale interior accents.

2. Bold exterior style elements.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe makes a statement wherever it goes. It is not just a normal SUV, but it is an aggressive machine. Its LED headlights, bold front grille, and attractive lighting throughout give this SUV a look of its own, and buyers love it.

3. Driver assistive safety features that impress.

There is nothing better than the reassurance that your passengers are covered in the event of an accident. Not only does the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe deliver on that promise, but it also implements features to prevent accidents altogether. While accident avoidance cannot be guaranteed, the Hyundai Santa Fe tries to implement technology that make collisions less likely.

4. Sturdy all-wheel drive that delivers.

The confidence buyers have in this SUV model just keeps building. Optional all-wheel drive across all trim levels allow drivers to maintain in control on all types of road conditions. A step ahead of the rest, this is far more substantial than rival SUVs that only offer AWD as an available upgrade only on certain trims.

5. A powerful turbo engine option.

One of the best enhancements the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe has to offer is a choice between two turbocharged engine options. The choice between a 2.0-liter and a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine is there for the consumer to make. You may also be impressed by a new hybrid powertrain that has made its way into the 2021 Santa Fe lineup.

6. Modern head up display.

As an available upgrade for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, a contemporary feature known as a head up display takes its place front and center. In fact, the Calligraphy trim level incorporates a color head up display in its standard amenities. Other trim levels also offer a head up display option, though they are not as savvy as that of the Calligraphy model.

7. Well-rounded standard features.

Instead of making buyers pay for each and every upgrade, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe makes it a point to include a wide array of standard features for buyers to enjoy. In fact, most driver-assistive safety features, app connectivity, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are all standard across 2021 Santa Fe trim levels.

8. Outstanding warranty for consumer benefit.

Hyundai is a brand that stands out for their extensive warranty that accompanies every model. A characteristic five year or 60,000 mile warranty is in place. This warranty is far longer and more extensive that what rivals have to offer.

9. Enhanced cargo capacity.

In an SUV as upscale as the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, towing power is not always considered. Yet perhaps it should be. This SUV is able to tow up to 3,000 pounds, making it easier for families to bring along their beloved campers and boats on a family vacation.

10. Premium package upgrade selections.

As with any other SUV, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe has plenty of package options to choose from. While the newest Calligraphy and the most upscale Limited are the most common choices, the Santa Fe prides itself on offering options to consumers.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe – The Cons

Although the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe is an SUV to keep your eye on, there are a few areas that could use some improvement. For many, these downfalls are not substantial enough to disregard this model. Yet, they should be considered before making a purchase.

1. A base engine that leaves much to be desired.

Despite its two turbocharged engine options that made their way into this SUV's 2021 lineup, the base Santa Fe engine could use a bit of an upgrade, itself. Equipped with a four-cylinder that makes 192-horsepower, buyers need more strength to push around this large SUV.

2. Limited passenger seating.

Only incorporating as many seats as a standard sedan, room for more passengers would not hurt the Santa Fe's reputation. In fact, seating for two additional passengers would do quite a bit for this SUV's comfort and convenience.

3. Minimal trim level selections.

Buyers love choices. It is one of the main things that draws consumers into a vehicle model. So, the limited trim options for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe does not do much for this SUV model.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe has certainly made an impact on consumers and the respective SUV market. Featuring both quality and style, it is a strong competitor. In its 2021 model, the Hyundai Santa Fe sees close competition with the Ford Edge and the Nissan Murano.

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2021 Ford Edge

Two vehicles with good reputations and impeccable style, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe and the 2021 Ford Edge are tight rivals. Boasting similar price points, these two SUVs seat the same number of passengers and use similar design elements. Yet, the Ford Edge highlights its comprehensive safety features, while the Hyundai Santa Fe has placed much focus on turbocharged engine options. While the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe does include many standard driver-assistive safety features, the amenities of the Ford Edge stand far and wide making it difficult to catch up. Yet, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe is more well-rounded than the 2021 Ford Edge. This is enough to make buyers opt for the contemporary Santa Fe in lieu of the traditional Ford Edge.

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2021 Nissan Murano

Completely different looks set the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe and the 2021 Nissan Murano apart. While the Murano features sharp contours, the Santa Fe focuses more on rounded attributes and well-blended panels. Similar in price, the Hyundai Santa Fe has taken recent years to craft a hybrid powertrain that is a key offering. Yet, the Nissan Murano did not use its time wisely and leaves much to be desired in its powertrain selections. Though the 2021 Nissan Murano is good-looking and well-equipped, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe is powerful and edgy. In fact, it offers hybrid and partial hybrid models, where the Nissan Murano cannot even come close with any of its powertrain setup options.

Conclusion

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe is a steal for any buyer. If you need extra room for family traveling, you can find it in this model. If you enjoy a bold and athletic appearance, the Hyundai Santa Fe has it for you. This SUV is a great value at a moderate cost with ample safety, tech, and design element inclusions. The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe has a bold look and attitude, and it is one that buyers simply cannot ignore. While it was made for the spotlight, the Santa Fe also does a fine job of blending into the background, when needed. The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe has seen its fair share of improvements, and buyers are getting the benefit of these new implementations. The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe knows how to blend the perfect mixture of work and play, and you can experience it, too!