Why the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe is the Best Used SUV You Can Buy Today

If you're looking for a reliable and affordable SUV, then the used 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe might be the car for you. With an impressive combination of modern tech, a comfortable interior, and excellent safety features, this SUV is attracting a lot of attention. But before you jump into the decision, let's dive into everything that makes the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe a great buy—and the few things you should watch out for if you're purchasing a used model.

Overview of the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

When Hyundai launched the 2024 Santa Fe, it was met with positive reviews for its mix of style, functionality, and efficiency. Hyundai, known for its long warranty programs and excellent build quality, has done a great job making the Santa Fe a versatile mid-size SUV. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or going on long road trips, the Santa Fe offers what many people want: a smooth ride, decent fuel economy, and plenty of interior space.

Engine Options and Performance

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe comes with two main engine options:

• 2.5-liter inline-four engine: This is the standard engine offering 191 horsepower. It's fuel-efficient, offering around 26 MPG in combined city and highway driving. The 2.5L engine is perfect for daily commuting, but don't expect it to blow your socks off in terms of power.
• Turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine: If you want more power, the turbocharged version offers 281 horsepower. This engine delivers quicker acceleration, but it's still far from a high-performance SUV.

Performance Drawback: Lackluster Acceleration

One of the drawbacks of the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe, especially with the standard engine, is its acceleration. While it’s not a dealbreaker, if you’re someone who likes a bit more zip when you press the gas pedal, the base engine might feel a bit sluggish. If you’re used to turbocharged engines, the standard 2.5-liter might leave you wanting more.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The Santa Fe comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission which shifts smoothly for the most part. Both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations are available. The AWD is a good choice for those living in areas with harsh weather, providing extra traction and control on wet or snowy roads.

Drivetrain Drawback: No Hybrid Option in Some Markets

One thing that may disappoint buyers is the lack of hybrid or plug-in hybrid models in some used markets. While Hyundai did offer hybrid versions of the Santa Fe, they’re harder to come by in the used market. For buyers seeking excellent fuel economy and greener alternatives, this could be a limitation.

Interior and Comfort

One of the most praised aspects of the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe is its interior. Hyundai focused heavily on comfort and quality for this year’s model. Soft-touch materials, spacious seating, and intuitive controls make it feel like you’re driving a more expensive car.

Cabin Space and Layout

The cabin layout is thoughtfully designed with driver comfort in mind. The seating is spacious enough for five adults, and even the rear seats offer plenty of legroom. The 2024 Santa Fe also boasts plenty of cargo space, with 36.4 cubic feet behind the second row, expandable to 72.1 cubic feet when you fold down the rear seats.

Interior Drawback: No Third-Row Seating

One drawback for larger families is the lack of a third row in the Santa Fe. If you’re used to driving a bigger SUV with seating for seven or more passengers, you may find this a little limiting. Hyundai reserves the third-row feature for its larger SUVs, like the Palisade.

Tech Features and Infotainment

Hyundai did an excellent job in packing the 2024 Santa Fe with technology. Even in used models, you can expect to find an 8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity.

• 8-inch touchscreen (standard)
• 10.25-inch touchscreen (higher trims)
• Wireless charging
• Available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
• Multiple USB charging ports

Tech Drawback: Not Always User-Friendly

Though the tech is abundant, the infotainment system can sometimes be a little complicated to use. Some users have reported that the menus are not as intuitive as other brands, leading to frustration when trying to adjust settings or connect devices.

Safety Features and Driver Assistance

Hyundai takes safety seriously, and it shows in the 2024 Santa Fe. This SUV comes packed with driver-assistance features that make it stand out in its class.

Standard Safety Features

Even if you’re looking at a used model, you’re likely to get a wide array of advanced safety features, such as:

• Forward collision-avoidance assist
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Lane-keeping assist
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Adaptive cruise control

These features make the Santa Fe one of the safest used SUVs in its price range.

Safety Drawback: Some Features Are Only Available on Higher Trims

While the base model comes with a lot of safety features, you might miss out on extras like a surround-view camera, highway driving assist, or remote parking assist unless you opt for a higher trim. If these features are a must-have for you, make sure to check the trim level of the used Santa Fe you're considering.

Trim Levels: What You Can Expect

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe came in a variety of trim levels, and the availability of features depends on which one you choose. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common trims:

SE (Base Trim)

• 17-inch wheels
• Cloth upholstery
• Basic infotainment system with 8-inch screen

SEL (Mid-Level Trim)

• 18-inch wheels
• Power-adjustable driver’s seat
• Heated front seats
• 12.3-inch digital cluster (optional)

XRT (Off-Road-Inspired Trim)

• 20-inch wheels
• Dark exterior accents
• Roof rails

Limited (High-End Trim)

• 19-inch wheels
• Leather upholstery
• Panoramic sunroof
• Ventilated front seats

Calligraphy (Top Trim)

• 20-inch wheels
• Premium leather
• Ambient interior lighting
• Surround-view camera

Fuel Efficiency

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe delivers respectable fuel efficiency for a mid-size SUV. Depending on whether you go for the base engine or the turbocharged option, your fuel consumption will vary.

• Standard 2.5-liter engine: 26 MPG combined
• Turbocharged 2.5-liter engine: 24 MPG combined
• All-wheel-drive: A slight decrease in fuel economy with AWD versions, about 1-2 MPG less

Fuel Drawback: Turbo Engine Isn’t the Most Efficient

Though the turbocharged engine offers better performance, it comes at the cost of fuel efficiency. If you’re looking to save money at the pump, the base engine might be a better fit.

Maintenance and Reliability

Hyundai’s reputation for reliability continues with the 2024 Santa Fe. It’s known for being a low-maintenance vehicle, and Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is among the best in the industry.

Reliability Drawback: Electronics May Be Prone to Issues

Like many modern vehicles, the Santa Fe has a lot of electronics that control everything from the infotainment system to advanced safety features. Some used models might show wear in these areas, especially if the previous owner didn’t take good care of the vehicle.

Final Thoughts on Buying a Used 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

All things considered, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe is a strong contender for anyone looking for a used SUV. It offers a balance of comfort, technology, and safety, all wrapped in an attractive design. While it may not be the most powerful or feature-packed vehicle in its class, it’s certainly one of the most reliable and practical choices on the market.

The Opinion of Alex Collantes: A Car Enthusiast

Alex Collantes, an avid car enthusiast, shares his thoughts on the used 2024 Santa Fe: “For the price you pay, the Santa Fe gives you more than enough. Sure, it’s not a sports car, but it’s smooth, comfortable, and packed with safety features. I’ve been driving one for the last six months, and I don’t regret a thing.”

With used car prices always fluctuating, finding a good deal on a 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe is a smart move for those who need a practical, reliable SUV without sacrificing too much in terms of comfort or style.

Key Takeaways

• Pros: Comfort, advanced safety features, tech-savvy interior
• Cons: Sluggish base engine, infotainment system usability issues

Whether you're a family looking for a spacious daily driver or someone needing an SUV for occasional trips and adventures, the Santa Fe stands as a great option in the used car market. Just make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making your purchase!