The Hyundai Santa Fe has long been a competitive pick in the midsize SUV stable. An update for the 2021 model year should only improve its standing. The update comes with a price bump, but not a big one. Prices now start at $26,850 for the base SE, an increase of $950 over the 2020 version. This still keeps among the least expensive options in our Best Midsize SUVs list). Pricing for the hybrid model is not yet available.
There are three basic trim levels, SE, SEL, and Limited along with a new range-topping Caligraphy package. The SEL starts at $30,350 while the Limited costs $38,600. Adding all-wheel drive to these front-drive versions adds $1,700. The Caligraphy tops out at $42,300 when equipped with 20-inch wheels. Destination charges add $1,175.
The 2020 edition won our Best Buy and Cost of Ownership Awards. It’s as quiet as a luxury car, with one of the longest standard warranties in the business. The biggest complaint our testers found was that the base model’s engine was slightly underpowered for the weight, though an available turbocharged version was much better.
For next year, Hyundai has attempted to solve those few complaints and brought more dramatic styling to an already-attractive exterior.
That power deficit is addressed with a new, 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, though we’re not convinced the six additional horsepower will be enough. The turbocharged option gets a much more significant bump, going from 235 horsepower up to 277 – so buyers still may find the upgrade worth the cost. That engine is available only on the Limited and Caligraphy.
Other changes include a new forward collision avoidance system with cyclist detection, a larger, 12.3-inch display screen, and voice commands for climate control and radio.
