2017 Hyundai Santa Fe: A Comprehensive Review of Hyundai's 3-Row Family SUV

Key Takeaways: The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe received subtle styling updates and significant safety improvements, maintaining its position as a value-packed 3-row SUV. While it competes well with segment leaders like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, newer competitors have narrowed Hyundai's advantage in this competitive class.

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Overview and Model Comparison

The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe represents the mid-cycle refresh of Hyundai's popular 3-row SUV, originally introduced at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. This update brings enhanced safety features and subtle styling changes to keep it competitive against newer rivals.

Important model distinctions:

• The standard Santa Fe offers three rows of seating (6-7 passengers)
• The Santa Fe Sport is a separate 5-passenger model with two rows
• Four trims available: SE, Limited, SE Ultimate, and Limited Ultimate
• Seating configurations vary by trim (captain's chairs or bench seat in second row)

Exterior Design Updates

Hyundai implemented several subtle but effective styling changes for the 2017 model year:

• Revised front fascia with larger grille and new bumper design
• Elantra-inspired vertical LED daytime running lights
• Updated headlight assemblies
• New taillight design (LED on Limited trims)
• Dual exhaust outlets for a more premium appearance
• Fresh wheel designs in 17-, 18-, and 19-inch sizes

The sloping roofline and tapered rear side windows carry over from previous models, contributing to a sporty aesthetic while slightly compromising third-row headroom and rear visibility.

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Driving Dynamics and Performance

Powertrain and Transmission

The 2017 Santa Fe continues with the proven 3.3-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Buyers can choose between front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations.

Key performance characteristics:

• Adequate low-end torque for city driving
• Requires higher RPMs for optimal highway passing power
• Transmission behaves more calmly than some competitors with more gears
• Superior to CVT-equipped rivals like the Nissan Pathfinder

Drive Modes and Handling

A new drive mode selector offers three settings:

1. Eco Mode: Maximizes fuel efficiency but results in sluggish response
2. Sport Mode: Sharpens throttle response and steering feel
3. Normal Mode: The balanced setting for everyday driving

The Santa Fe delivers composed handling for its class, with minimal body roll and predictable behavior when pushed. The firm suspension provides stable highway manners but transmits more road imperfections than some competitors.

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Fuel Economy

EPA estimates for the 2017 Santa Fe:

While competitive with other V6-powered 3-row SUVs, the Santa Fe can't match the efficiency of four-cylinder or hybrid alternatives offered by some rivals.

Interior Comfort and Space

Seating and Passenger Accommodations

The Santa Fe's interior shows some signs of aging but remains functional and well-equipped:

• Firm seats that some may find too stiff for long journeys
• Excellent adjustability for the driver (8-way power seats with lumbar)
• Available ventilated front seats and heated rear seats (Ultimate trims)
• Second-row captain's chairs (Ultimate) or 40/20/40 bench seat
• Third row best suited for children with limited headroom and legroom

Cargo Capacity

The Santa Fe's cargo measurements:

• 13.5 cubic feet behind the third row
• 40.9 cubic feet with third row folded
• 80 cubic feet with both rear rows folded

While adequate, these figures trail segment leaders like the Honda Pilot. The available hands-free power liftgate makes loading easier when your hands are full.

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Technology and Features

Infotainment System

Standard and available tech features:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across all trims
• 7-inch touchscreen (SE/Limited) or 8-inch with navigation (Ultimate)
• Infinity premium audio system with Clari-Fi music restoration
• Thoughtful physical controls instead of touchscreen-only interfaces

Convenience Features

Noteworthy amenities include:

• Convenient device tray with USB and power outlets
• Panoramic moonroof (available) that brightens the cabin
• Memory function for driver's seat and mirrors
• Heated steering wheel (Ultimate trims)

Safety Features and Ratings

The 2017 Santa Fe earned significant safety improvements:

• IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating (when equipped with Tech Package)
• "Good" scores in all IIHS crash tests (improved from previous years)
• Available forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Standard backup camera across all trims
• Available 360-degree camera system (Ultimate trims)

To get the full suite of advanced safety features, buyers must opt for the Tech Package ($2,100) on Limited or Ultimate trims.

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Value Proposition and Competitors

Pricing and Warranty

The Santa Fe's strongest selling points:

• Competitive pricing with generous standard features
• Industry-leading warranty: 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper
• 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage

Key Competitors

How the Santa Fe compares to segment rivals:

1. Honda Pilot: More spacious interior with family-friendly features
2. Toyota Highlander: Available hybrid powertrain and standard safety tech
3. Mazda CX-9: More premium interior and sportier handling
4. Kia Sorento: Corporate cousin with similar features at lower price points

Final Verdict

The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe remains a compelling choice in the 3-row SUV segment, offering:

• Strong safety credentials when properly equipped
• Composed driving dynamics for its size
• Excellent warranty protection
• Competitive feature content for the price

However, buyers should also consider newer competitors that offer more spacious interiors, advanced standard safety features, and in some cases, more efficient powertrain options. The Santa Fe's aging design and firm ride may not appeal to all buyers, but it remains a solid value proposition for families prioritizing safety and warranty coverage.