| Pros | Cons | What's New |
|---|---|---|
Eye-catchy styling | V-6 is a long-wheelbase exclusive | Full design overhaul |
Great fuel economy | Steering lacks feedback | Different models for 2-row & 3-row variants |
Plenty of cargo space | New V6 | |
Commodious cabin |
$29,700
price264 hp @ 6000 rpm
horsepower269 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm
torque6-Speed Shiftable Automatic
transmission2.0L 4cyl AWD 6A
engine-
basic warrantyThe 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe is one hell of a compact SUV that ticks all the boxes for an average user. It has now been completely redesigned and falls in a segment that has immense competition from automakers but Hyundai upped the ante in recent years with some of the most striking and feature-packed vehicles in the current market.
Even though for many people the base SUV would do just fine, it is always better to get a nicer vehicle if you wish to keep it for long. The 2.0T trim with all the optional packages would be our suggestion. Hyundai has, however, made it a bit complicated when it comes to packages as to have a package you must have another one installed already.
Talking of the market, the Santa Fe goes up against some of the best-selling crossovers namely, the Chevrolet Equinox, the Kia Sorento, and the Honda CR-V - all of which provide massive value for money in terms of cabin space, interior quality, comfort, and performance.
The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe comes only in 2 trim levels and even that has been further simplified by Hyundai. The base model has a smaller engine and the 2.0T trim has the turbocharged engine. To customize these there are optional packages that can be had on any of the trims. The base trim comes with basic features like cloth upholstery, air conditioning, etc. The 2.0T trim also comes with the same music system and upholstery. The only advantage it has over the base trim is bigger wheels, better instrument cluster, and keyless entry & ignition. Buyers can customize both trims with the only exception being the engine of course.
|
Trim |
Sport |
2.0T Sport |
|---|---|---|
|
MSRP (FWD) |
$24,700 |
$28,000 |
|
MSRP (AWD) |
N/A |
$29,700 |
|
Key Features |
17-inch wheels |
In addition to Sport trim features with: |
|
Cruise control |
More powerful turbocharged engine |
|
|
Rear spoiler |
Upgraded gauge cluster |
|
|
Trip computer |
Upgraded information display |
|
|
Air-conditioning |
19-inch wheels |
|
|
Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system |
Keyless ignition and entry |
|
|
Six-speaker audio system |
We Recommend
Even though for many people the base SUV would do just fine, it is always better to get a nicer vehicle if you wish to keep it for long. The 2.0T trim with all the optional packages would be our suggestion. Hyundai has, however, made it a bit complicated when it comes to packages as to have a package you must have another one installed already.
The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe’s base 2.4L Inline-4 produces 190 hp & 181 lb-ft of torque. All the models come with FWD as standard and the AWD system can be had only in the 2.0T Sport trim. a 6-speed automatic transmission comes as standard. The ride quality is extremely plush and cabin noise is not present, at all, even at highway speeds. Overall, the base engine will do the job very well as a daily driver for your family.
However, the bigger 2.0L turbo engine will make things easier as it has more power and torque comes in early in the rev band for those zippy overtakes. This engine churns out 264 hp & 269 lb-ft of torque and is mated to the standard 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2013 Santa Fe also comes with a V-6 engine option on their 7-seater variants.
|
Models |
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe |
2013 Chevrolet Equinox |
2013 Kia Sorento |
2013 Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MSRP |
$24,700 |
$24,300 |
$23,200 |
$22,800 |
|
Engine |
2.4L, Naturally Aspirated, I-4 |
2.4L, Naturally Aspirated, I-4 |
2.4L, Naturally Aspirated, I-4 |
2.4L, Naturally Aspirated, I-4 |
|
Drivetrain |
FWD |
FWD |
FWD |
FWD |
|
Transmission |
6-speed automatic |
6-speed Automatic |
6-Speed Automatic |
5-speed automatic |
|
Power (hp @ RPM |
190 hp @ 6,300 RPM |
182 hp @ 6,700 RPM |
175 hp @ 6,000 RPM |
185 hp @ 7,000 RPM |
|
Torque (lb-ft @ rpm) |
181 lb-ft @ 4,250 RPM |
172 lb-ft @ 4,900 RPM |
169 lb-ft @ 3,750 RPM |
163 lb-ft @ 4,400 RPM |
|
0-60 MPH (seconds) |
9.3 |
8.7 |
9.4 |
9.9 |
|
Quarter-Mile (seconds) |
16.9 |
16.8 |
16.9 |
17.3 |
|
Top-Speed (MPH) |
127 |
115 |
132 |
130 |
While all the SUVs are lingering around in the sub 9 seconds timings for 0-60 MPH acceleration, only the Chevy Equinox performs just a tad bit better taking 8.7 seconds. So, if by any chance all your neighborhood dads go on a drag race on the weekend, make sure there isn’t anyone with an Equinox. Each SUV shares a similar powertrain setup and while the 60mph timings differ by half a second, the quarter-mile run is even more fierce and competitive.
Well, with mileage figures of 21/29/24 for city/highway/combined, the South Korean brand isn’t doing better than its rivals. However, the actual fuel economy isn’t bad at all. Thankfully the tank capacity is on the higher side and allows it to drive over 400 miles on a full tank of gas. The turbocharged engine gets 19 MPG in the city & 24 MPG on the highways which is not the best for a daily driver, especially considering that the power bump over the base engine is not that significant.
|
Models |
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe |
2013 Chevrolet Equinox |
2013 Kia Sorento |
2013 Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MPG (City) |
21 |
22 |
21 |
23 |
|
MPG (Highway) |
29 |
32 |
30 |
31 |
|
MPG (Combined) |
24 |
26 |
24 |
26 |
|
Fuel Capacity (Gallons) |
17.4 |
18.8 |
18.0 |
15.3 |
|
Range (City/Highway/Combined, in Miles) |
365/504/417 |
413/601/488 |
378/540/432 |
351/474/397 |
With the biggest fuel tank capacity and overall better economy than Santa Fe, the Chevy Equinox gets the best-combined driving range of 488 miles, among the rivals. Honda as always is on top of the efficiency game but it lacks the overall range all the rest of the competition has due to the small 15.3-gallon fuel tank it comes equipped with. The Kia Sorento is similar to its sibling with the exception that it can average a combined mileage of 432 miles.
The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe has a much better interior than the previous year's model. The cabin feels very modern overall thanks to its completely unconventional design approach. The dashboard on this SUV has received some serious attention from the design team. The material quality on the base trim is as expected with hard plastic all over but the overall design language and layout compensates for that. The front seats are comfortable and have some bolstering as well for that lateral support. The optional packages make these seats more convenient to use with power adjustability and heating.
As there is no third row to think of, the second row has plenty of legroom and headroom for average people. The seats can be reclined for a more relaxed experience. The longer wheelbase variants have a third-row arrangement and that lets the second row have some extra space as well. However, the third row isn’t anything special, just usual business with tight spaces.
|
Models |
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe |
2013 Chevrolet Equinox |
2013 Kia Sorento |
2013 Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seating Capacity |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
|
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
39.6/59.4/41.3 |
40.9/55.8/41.2 |
39.2/59.3/41.3 |
39.9/56.4/38.3 |
|
Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
39.1/58.3/39.4 |
39.2/55.3/39.9 |
39.2/58.7/37.6 |
38.6/56.4/38.3 |
|
Cargo Capacity (cubic feet) |
35.4 |
31.5 |
37 |
37.2 |
The Hyundai Santa Fe can hold a lot of stuff even if the seats aren’t folded. Folding the seats will allow more than double space to store any longer items. The total cargo carrying capacity of the Hyundai remains at 71.5 cubes & 80 cubic feet for the 7-seater variants. But the standard capacity will decrease on the long-wheelbase variants due to that third row. Some of the highlighting interior features of Santa Fe are:
The basic infotainment system contains an MP3 player, CD changer, Bluetooth, and iPod connectivity. A 4.3-inch touchscreen is available as an optional extra. There are two more optional systems available with an 8.0-inch touchscreen and 12 speaker setup with a dedicated 550-watt amplifier. This system is the only one with navigation support while the 550-watt system is 2.0T trim exclusive. Some key highlights of the infotainment are:
The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe doesn’t deviate from the trend but the overall styling is better and slightly aggressive than last year. The front end is attractive with a sharp blade-like grille design and angular headlight setup. The lower part of the bumper is designed keeping practicality in mind as it is covered with protective black plastic.
Talking about body lines, there are a few, some on the hood and one on the beltline that traces the door handles and nicely blend in with the taillight assembly. The window sills and door handles are chrome plated and elevate the styling a little bit. The rear bumper houses an underbody guard but just for styling purposes as it's not the most robust. Overall, the Sant Fe is the best-looking SUV currently in its segment.
|
Models |
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe |
2013 Chevrolet Equinox |
2013 Kia Sorento |
2013 Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Curb Weight (lbs.) |
3,459 |
3,777 |
3,605 |
3,305 |
|
Length (inches) |
184.6 |
187.8 |
183.9 |
178.3 |
|
Width (inches) |
74.0 |
72.5 |
74.2 |
71.6 |
|
Height (inches) |
66.1 |
66.3 |
67.3 |
65.1 |
|
Ground Clearance (inches) |
7.5 |
6.9 |
7.5 |
6.8 |
|
Wheelbase (inches) |
106.3 |
112.5 |
106.3 |
103.1 |
The Chevy Equinox has the longest wheelbase in the group but the overall width is less than the Santa Fe. That’s the reason why Equinox has the best second-row space along with Santa Fe. The Equinox is also the heaviest of all the SUVs here weighing in a whopping 3777 pounds. Moreover, both Kia & Hyundai have higher ground clearances of 7.5 inches, than their rivals. That said, some of the key exterior features are:
The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe has scored a splendid 5-star rating in federal crash tests in overall safety conducted by the NHTSA. The frontal crash ratings and side crash ratings are also full 5-stars. The IIHS has awarded their “Top Safety Pick” award to Santa Fe for getting a 'Good' rating in all but the small overlap driver side. Let’s see what do we have for active safety features for further peace of mind:
It would have been a difficult task in the previous year to recommend this SUV but the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe is a splendid crossover, both inside and out. The kind of options that are on offer is amazing. Whether it's a 5-seater or a 7-seater configuration, anything you as a buyer would want is present in Santa Fe. In terms of safety, it's on par with the competition with the same features set available throughout the range. The major advantage it has over its competition is the striking design. Although it lacks a little on the fuel economy side of things, the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe is still a worthy option in its segment.
Car Name | 0-60 MPH | Quarter Mile | Top Speed | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Ranked #20 | 9.3 sec | - | - | |||
2013 Acura RDX Ranked #1 | 6.7 sec | 13.2 sec | 122 mph | |||
2013 Ford Edge Ranked #2 | 6.8 sec | 15.4 sec | 122 mph | |||
2013 Jeep Wrangler Ranked #3 | 6.9 sec | - | - | |||
2013 Toyota 4Runner Ranked #4 | 7.2 sec | 15.8 sec | 115 mph | |||
2013 Mazda CX-9 Ranked #4 | 7.2 sec | 15.6 sec | - |
Car Name | MPG City | MPG Highway | MPG Combined | Fuel Tank Capacity | Range (C/H) | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Ranked #4 | 21 mpg | 29 mpg | 24 mpg | 17.4 gal. | 365.4/504.6 mi. | |||
2013 Mazda CX-5 Ranked #1 | 26 mpg | 35 mpg | 29 mpg | 14.8 gal. | 384.8/518 mi. | |||
2013 GMC Terrain Ranked #2 | 22 mpg | 32 mpg | 26 mpg | 18 gal. | 396/576 mi. | |||
2013 Jeep Compass Ranked #2 | 23 mpg | 30 mpg | 26 mpg | 13.6 gal. | 312.8/408 mi. | Jeep USA | ||
2013 Honda CR-V Ranked #2 | 23 mpg | 31 mpg | 26 mpg | 15.3 gal. | 351.9/474.3 mi. | |||
2013 Chevrolet Equinox Ranked #2 | 22 mpg | 32 mpg | 26 mpg | 18.8 gal. | 413.6/601.6 mi. |
Car Name | Length | Width | Height | Ground Clearance | Wheelbase | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Ranked #17 | 184.6 in. | 74 in. | 66.1 in. | 7.3 in. | 106.3 in. | |||
2013 Chevrolet Traverse Ranked #1 | 203.7 in. | 78.5 in. | 69.9 in. | 7.2 in. | 118.9 in. | |||
2013 Buick Enclave Ranked #2 | 201.9 in. | 79 in. | 71.7 in. | 7.6 in. | 118.9 in. | |||
2013 GMC Acadia Ranked #3 | 200.8 in. | 78.9 in. | 70.4 in. | 7.6 in. | 118.9 in. | |||
2013 Mazda CX-9 Ranked #4 | 200.6 in. | 76.2 in. | 68 in. | 8 in. | 113.2 in. | |||
2013 Dodge Durango Ranked #5 | 199.8 in. | 75.8 in. | 71.6 in. | 8.1 in. | 119.8 in. |
Car Name | Trunk Capacity | Passenger Volume | Max Trunk Volume | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Ranked #10 | 35.4 cu.ft. | 108 cu.ft. | 71.5 cu.ft. | |||
2013 Toyota Highlander Ranked #1 | 10.3 cu.ft. | 145.7 cu.ft. | 95.4 cu.ft. | |||
2013 Chevrolet Traverse Ranked #2 | 24.4 cu.ft. | 150.8 cu.ft. | 116.3 cu.ft. | |||
2013 Nissan Murano Ranked #3 | 31.6 cu.ft. | 108.6 cu.ft. | 64 cu.ft. | |||
2013 Toyota 4Runner Ranked #4 | 47.2 cu.ft. | 97.3 cu.ft. | 89.7 cu.ft. | |||
2013 Ford Explorer Ranked #5 | 21 cu.ft. | 151.7 cu.ft. | 80.7 cu.ft. |
Car Name | Cargo Volume | Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area | Max Cargo Volume | Bed Length | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Ranked #1 | 71.5 cu.ft. | 35.4 cu.ft. | 71.5 cu.ft. | - | |||
2013 Subaru Tribeca Ranked #2 | 74.4 cu.ft. | 8.3 cu.ft. | 74.4 cu.ft. | - | |||
2013 Toyota 4Runner Ranked #3 | 89.7 cu.ft. | 47.2 cu.ft. | 89.7 cu.ft. | - | |||
2013 Mazda CX-5 Ranked #4 | 10.6 cu.ft. | 34.1 cu.ft. | 64.8 cu.ft. | - | |||
2013 Toyota RAV4 Ranked #5 | 73.4 cu.ft. | 38.4 cu.ft. | 73.4 cu.ft. | - | |||
2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Ranked #6 | 53 cu.ft. | 36.2 cu.ft. | 72.6 cu.ft. | - |
Car Name | Towing Capacity | Payload Capacity | Weight | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Ranked #6 | 3500 lbs. | 1338 lbs. | 3459 lbs. | |||
2013 Dodge Durango Ranked #1 | 6200 lbs. | 1330 lbs. | 4756 lbs. | |||
2013 GMC Acadia Ranked #2 | 5200 lbs. | 1756 lbs. | 4656 lbs. | |||
2013 Chevrolet Traverse Ranked #2 | 5200 lbs. | 1764 lbs. | 4646 lbs. | |||
2013 Ford Explorer Ranked #3 | 5000 lbs. | 1661 lbs. | 4534 lbs. | |||
2013 Nissan Pathfinder Ranked #3 | 5000 lbs. | 1728 lbs. | 4185 lbs. |
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User Overall Rating
Posted On: June 19, 2024
My SUV is almost perfect for my family. I have 3 rd row seating so I can separate my kids when they fight. I can heat or cool my seat. I don't like the tinted windows in the dark. It can make roads and driveway entrances in the dark
