The redesigned 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe competes in one of today’s toughest segments. However, an improved interior with more passenger room and a greater number of standard safety technologies help make this two-row crossover a worthy choice.

As always, it continues to bring a great deal of value to the table.

Trims

  • SE: $25,000
  • SEL: $27,100
  • Limited: $32,100
  • Ultimate: $34,950

Performance Specs

When shopping for a new 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe, you’ll be able to choose from two different engines. The base power source is a 2.4-liter, DOHC four-cylinder engine. Hyundai rates it to develop 185 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. A more formidable turbocharged four-cylinder engine is available on the Limited and Ultimate trims. It cranks out 235 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque.

By replacing last year’s six-speed automatic transmission with a new eight-speed gearbox, Hyundai was able to promote a smoother performance. Meanwhile, balanced handling and a comfortable ride make the Santa Fe especially rewarding to drive. Natural steering feel helps drivers to feel confident when making quick maneuvers.

This is an excellent vehicle for the snow. While front-wheel-drive comes standard, a new HTRAC AWD system is optional throughout the lineup. By varying the amount of engine torque sent to the front and rear axles, it’s able to noticeably enhance traction when driving in wintry weather.

Gas Mileage

In terms of fuel economy, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe ranks near the top of the segment.

Front-wheel-drive models equipped with the base engine can return an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in town and 29 mpg on the highway. While the turbocharged engine is not quite as economical, most drivers won’t complain about getting 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the interstate. Fortunately, both engines are tuned to use regular unleaded gasoline.

Entertainment Features

To make the new Santa Fe an excellent bang for the buck, Hyundai loaded with a lot of standard equipment. Hyundai’s Blue Link infotainment system may become one of your favorite features. This interface has been praised for its effortless operation. Even the base model boasts a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone support. Some of the other standard goodies include four USB ports, Bluetooth, and a backup camera.

If the base stereo system leaves you wanting more sound, step up to the 12-speaker Infinity system. It’s designed with Clari-Fi Music Restoration Technology, which enables you to experience far better audio quality. A 630-watt amplifier helps ensure a strong bass response.

Hyundai Blue Link Connected Car is found on most trims. When connected to your smartphone, this feature enables you to perform functions like remote-starting the vehicle. Parents can also use it to keep track of their teenager’s location.

For the drivers who demand more luxury on the road, Hyundai offers the range-topping Santa Fe Ultimate. It’s the only trim that provides climate-controlled front seats and heated rear seats. When stuck in a congested parking area, you’ll be thankful for the Ultimate trim’s surround-view camera. Meanwhile, a heads-up display projects your speed onto the windshield.

Safety Features

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe proves to be a secure family vehicle. Superb crash scores and an excellent headlight rating enabled it to be chosen as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. It also received an NHTSA five-star overall safety rating.

This year, an extra number of safety features come standard. Hyundai’s Safe Exit Assist feature is a definite confidence booster. When another vehicle is approaching from the side, it will momentarily prevent your door from opening. So, parents won’t have to worry about children opening their door into traffic.

Smart Cruise Control is yet another one of the Santa Fe’s standard active safety technologies. By sensing when the next vehicle ahead has slowed down or stopped, it’s able to maintain a safe following distance. Stop and Go technology puts you back into motion after coming to a stop. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian detection, driver attention warning, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring also come standard on the new Santa Fe.

Pros

More Spacious Design

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe has more space inside. Rear legroom is outstanding for a midsize family vehicle. In fact, KBB raves about the backseat’s ability to accommodate tall passengers. Furthermore, a generous amount of cargo space adds to the Santa Fe’s everyday practicality.

Splendid Value

With the arrival of more standard equipment, the Santa Fe has become an even better value. Popular features, like a smartphone-friendly infotainment system and forward collision warning, come standard.

Buyers will also benefit from Hyundai’s excellent warranty package. You’ll be protected by a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Sharper Exterior Styling

The new Santa Fe is easily among the best-looking crossovers in the segment. A bolder grille and slim headlights help give it a high-end appearance. Upper trims come equipped with a larger set of 19-inch alloy wheels, which accentuate the Santa Fe’s sporty stance.

Effective Safety Features

When behind the wheel of the new Santa Fe, you can enjoy extra peace of mind. Its standard safety technologies are very effective during real-world driving situations. You are unlikely to experience any false alarms.

Cons

Not Great for Off-Road Use

While a cutting-edge HTRAC AWD system is available, the Santa Fe is still not the best vehicle for traveling off the beaten path. It does not offer rugged upgrades like protective skid plates and off-road shock absorbers.

Final Thoughts

For good reason, some car reviewers have chosen the 2019 Hyundai Fe as the best SUV of the year. It’s safe, easy to drive, and packs a lot of style. Strongly consider it as your next family vehicle.

Grzegorz Czapski / Shutterstock

This article was worked on by a variety of people from the Autoversed team, including freelancers, editors, and/or other full-time employees.