by "Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
Published 11/18/2017 at 18:13
by "Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
Published 11/18/2017 at 18:13
Tags: Regular Car Reviews
; Hyundai Santa Fe
; Santa FE Sport
STARS: 5
AUTHOR EDIT - I name dropped the model based upon the paperwork that was furnished upon delivery of the vehicle, I won’t mention the company name, but I suppose I should have ran the VIN to verify the model to be exact. I don’t claim to be an expert on this vehicle, however many of the commenters own these and I totally admit that I indeed may have been very incorrect and I apologize for any discrepancies, I assure you they were not intentional.
I’ve spent the better part of three days with an orange 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, and I’ve finally come to an informed conclusion; it has many weaknesses.
!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!
The Hyundai Santa Fe Sport isn’t really sporty at all, the name “Sport” is used to denote that this is indeed the smaller Santa Fe. The Sport model is said to seat five, versus the full sized Santa Fe that will seat seven. Thankfully I learned this quickly, because the cost of a Santa Fe Sport Turbo All Wheel Drive with similar options comes in around $34,998. This is not a cheap vehicle, and in my video review I had thought the cost was lower, around $30,000.
With that in mind, the Santa Fe Sport slots itself against vehicles such as the Toyota Rav4, Honda CRV, BMW X1, and Ford Escape. While the Ford Escape isn’t bad, it’s hardly exciting, the RAV4 is an excellent vehicle and the BMW X1 is quite phenomenal. In terms of appearance, I feel as if the Hyundai holds itself up very well in this class, and handling also is a very nice strong suit. However, that’s right about where my praise ends.
!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!
!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!
As I just mentioned, the handling of the Santa Fe Sport was definitely one of the strongest assets I had found. Body roll was rather minimal, steering was rather quick and responsive, but lacked ANY feedback whatsoever. Steering weight in Sport mode was decently weighted, albeit a little light for my liking. The brakes were extremely capable of scrubbing speed very well, and the pedal even felt very nice.
The issue is with the transmission, I really believe it is almost entirely to blame. Shifts are so slow I could time them with a sun dial, and when you kick it down in automatic mode, it’ll take a moment to drop a few gears. More annoyingly, when you’ve aged an entire year waiting on the automatic downshift, the transmission will stay in the lower gear weeks after you’ve released the throttle. The only remedy is to manually shift back into higher gear, otherwise it will take a calendar year to do it itself. Not only is this insanely annoying, but it’s also not ideal for fuel economy either.
Once you’ve grown to resent the tragedy that is the Santa Fe Sport’s autotragic transmission, you’ll soon find a new area of hate, the lack of passing power. 240 horsepower isn’t bad by any means, but being a 3800 pound SUV with a shit transmission doesn’t make a good case for performance. 0-60 comes in about seven and a half seconds, and after sixty the engine feels like it’s laboring to pull much faster.
Fuel economy was pretty good all things considered, with mixed driving I had averaged over 25 miles per gallon. Unfortunately it doesn’t make up for the lethargic snail acceleration or the rage inducing automatic transmission.
!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!
This area is both embarrassing and maddening. Hill descent control, differential locker, drive mode selectors, those are some pretty spiffy options. This Santa Fe Sport has them. Know what else it has? About 11 blank buttons and switches throughout the interior.
The above picture is just to the left of the steering wheel. This isn’t counting buttons missing in the center stack, or worse yet... The four blank buttons around the shifter.
This vehicle lacks navigation, which should be standard on any respectable vehicle. The backup camera has the worst resolution of any back up camera I have ever seen. Watch my video review above and you’ll quickly find that I’m not being dramatic.
Blind spot assist? Doesn’t have it, although it could use it because there are numerous blind spots in the OEM mirrors.
Apple Car Play or Android (whatever it is called for Android) app support? Nope. Doesn’t have that either. Now, I should mention, nav and smart phone support is optional. At this price point, it should be standard. Just saying.
The seats, they’re manually adjusted. Also, they’re not heated. Oh, there’s no paddle shifters either. In other words, this thing is straight out of 2013 in the equipment department.
!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!
No question, I feel the quality is there. The interior materials feel nice, and nothing squeaked or rattled regardless of road quality. Ride quality was very good, and wind and tire noise was acceptable. However, the noise in the rain was far louder than some other vehicles I’ve driven. The Dodge Durango for example, was far more isolated from rain noise and outside environmental noises.
With that being said, the paint quality looked very good, panel gaps were very uniform and interior panel gaps looked very good. I have no doubt that the Santa Fe Sport will remain reliable and comfortable for years to come.
!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!
The Santa Fe Sport has 35 cubic feet of rear cargo space with the rear seats in their normal position, and 72 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. That’s more than the Ford Edge, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Even the Volkswagen Touareg! The rear seat space is quite generous, I have no doubt you could fit three average sized adults in the rear seat. The fuel economy I averaged leads me to believe that this is one of the most efficient SUVs out there with this type of cargo capacity.
In terms of general usability, the Hyundai makes a very compelling case for ownership. This brings me to my next and final point:
!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!
I don’t know how to answer this. The Santa Fe Sport is handsome, the interior is of rather high quality, it’s comfortable to drive and very spacious. The initial quality is indeed there, I would vouch for that.
However, features are lacking unless you want to dig deep into your pocketbook. The driving experience isn’t the worst in the world, but it’s fairly close. You could get a nicely appointed Durango GT or Edge Ecoboost that offer a far more entertaining driving experience for around the same cost.
I’ll throw this out there. If you’re a car enthusiast that likes to drive and have fun, this is NOT the vehicle for you. However, if you haul your kids to school, make normal errands to the coffee shop and just use a vehicle as an appliance, I believe the Santa Fe Sport is a very good purchase. All Wheel Drive, good fuel economy and generous space makes this one of the strongest values around.
Unfortunately, the driving experience doesn’t match the lofty price tag. Better luck next time Hyundai.
"Spanfeller is a twat" (theaspiringengineer)
11/18/2017 at 18:38, STARS: 1
Hmm, I have an Ex old friend living in Santa Fe atm...
She used to have a Tucson... What does it say about her?
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/18/2017 at 18:41, STARS: 0
That’s quite the hilarious contradiction isn’t it? Love both cities BTW!
"DipodomysDeserti" (dipodomysdeserti)
11/18/2017 at 18:54, STARS: 1
$34k for a Hyundai? As someone who drives a four year-old BMW that I purchased for $13k less than this Sante Fe with a panoramic sunroof, heated leather seats and a 100k mile warranty, that interior looks like shit. People who buy expensive Korean cars should be forced into exile.
"fhrblig" (fhrblig)
11/18/2017 at 19:01, STARS: 1
Every Korean car I’ve had always has lots of switch blanks. My ‘01 Accent had switch blanks for options they didn’t even offer in this market.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/18/2017 at 20:06, STARS: 0
Don’t disagree at all! Pre-owned is always the ticket in my eyes. Buy so much more for less.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/18/2017 at 20:06, STARS: 1
Oh wow I didn’t honestly know that
"TechJunky" (techjunky)
11/18/2017 at 20:11, STARS: 3
Are you sure it was a 2.0t with the turbo? It looks like a base model with the 2.4 n/a engine, which is good for185hp. That would start around 25k or so.
My wife drives a 2015 Santa Fe Sport, base model. I’ll agree it’s not truly sporty in any way, but as a family hauler (me, wife, kid, and dog) it fills the role nicely. Comfortable, good fuel economy, and plenty of space. Enthusiasts need not apply, but my wife isn’t an enthusiast so she’s happy.
"fhrblig" (fhrblig)
11/18/2017 at 20:12, STARS: 1
I remember looking through the owner’s manual, and I think one of the blanks was for rear fog lights. I want to say another was for headlight washers, and I thought that would be weird on such an entry-level car.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/18/2017 at 20:43, STARS: 0
Definitely a 2.0 turbo sport AWD. I certainly agree with everything you’ve said here as well. That’s exactly the point I was trying to convey. As a transportation device, it’s quite good. As an enthusiast driving it, it’s transportation haha. It definitely does look nice though.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/18/2017 at 20:44, STARS: 0
Rear fog lights would be an awesome touch! Good to know.
"Textured Soy Protein" (texturedsoyprotein)
11/19/2017 at 00:33, STARS: 4
Sorry, I can’t trust anyone who calls a RAV4 an excellent vehicle and suction cups a tablet to their windshield.
This Santa Fe Sport is absolutely not a turbo. The turbo comes standard with fog lights and dual zone climate control, both of which are not present in your pictures.
That means that this car is a basic SFS AWD which stickers at $27.3k. If it had the value package, there would be dual zone climate control, and that package adds $1900.
I had a very similar rental car to this over the summer. I rather liked it, for an appliance. It actually replaced a RAV4 with a bent wheel or something else that caused the whole car to vibrate. I turned it back on and got the SFS instead. It was an improvement in every way.
If you left it in ECO mode the whole time (the light is on in your picture of the gauges) that would explain the sluggish acceleration and transmission. Not that the non-turbo is fast with ECO mode off but it’s way worse in ECO.
"Steven" (pnkr0ck)
11/19/2017 at 01:16, STARS: 1
The only point I agree with is about the transmission. Hyundai still has a few kinks to work out (much of it software related I’d bet). Other than that, I have a fully stacked 2018 Santa Fe Sport 2.0T AWD with every bell and whistle possible for $42,000. The cost of a new 2017 Ford Edge with the same features? $55,000+. And buying a used Ford with the same features is idiotic, because it’s still going to be ridiculously expensive, and the warranty is shorter than Hyundai’s.
"Pork chop" (redsins)
11/19/2017 at 01:37, STARS: 1
This guy is truly a dumbass. This model is clearly a base model 2.4 with awd it will sticker for just over $27k and could be bought for about $22k. The amount of disinformation must have 1 goal which is to tear down a nice vehicle.
"Pork chop" (redsins)
11/19/2017 at 01:43, STARS: 2
Someone just took down my comment. Thewriter must not like the truth. If it was a turbo it would have had a lot more equipment.
"Joshua Johnston" (joshuagjohnston)
11/19/2017 at 03:20, STARS: 1
The Santa Fe Sport isn’t an entry level car, starting at 25K and heading up toward 40K with all the options. I have a 2017 2.0T AWD Ultimate model (fully loaded as far as the US model goes) and I can say if this is entry level, then the entire industry has it wrong since this was the best equipped model on the market in this price range when we purchased it.
"Joshua Johnston" (joshuagjohnston)
11/19/2017 at 03:26, STARS: 2
As the owner of a 2017 2.0T AWD/Ultimate, I’ll just start by saying that I don’t have the greatest experience in the world as to different transmissions, I don’t drive a stick, and I’d call myself a more thoughtful layman than anything else. Though, I do have a 300ZX Twin Turbo in the garage that I’ve had some fun driving.
But I think the impression of the transmission this review gives is unfairly rough. I rarely ever feel like the car has any shifting issues in daily use, in a hilly environment (Sierra Nevadas) with 22,300+ miles on mine after buying it last May.
My impression of the car has been great so far, and it’s been worth every penny. If there were one feature I’d like to see differently here it would be better gas mileage, because the Santa Fe Sport honestly deserves pretty mediocre to poor marks there. I’m averaging someplace around 24 in mixed use, and can stretch it to 26 or 27 if I don’t jump off the line like I typically do.
"Joshua Johnston" (joshuagjohnston)
11/19/2017 at 03:30, STARS: 2
My loaded 2017 model has only one blank in that location I can think of, maybe two? It looks like one of those blanks is for the cargo area AC socket that’s only available on the larger Santa Fe model, which makes sense when you keep in mind that this interior isn’t just for one model even here in the US market.
"Joshua Johnston" (joshuagjohnston)
11/19/2017 at 03:41, STARS: 2
You mention a bunch of features that are missing from the Santa Fe Sport, but fail to mention that they’re available as options.
Lane guidance, selectable 360 surround cameras with a clear picture, parking sensors, automatic cruise control, heated and ventilated front seats with heated rear seats, power for both front seats, reclining for the rear seats, 4G data connectivity for features like Soundcloud, weather, and service information, SiriusXM integration with 6 channels of always-recording presets, dual zone climate control, Android Auto and CarPlay support... My question is what’s still missing? On my car, damn little.
If your tester had a price of $34K+ your dealer is goddamn awful! Mine was $38K when they were just starting to hit dealerships last year, loaded with every option except the trailer hitch.
I will say you’re right about the noise, the Santa Fe could benefit from a few pounds worth of sound deadening underneath the floors. Rough asphalt rumbles like crazy, and there’s definitely some turbulence and notable noise in windy and rainy conditions.
But then you compare it to a Dodge Durango GT and say it’s in the same ballpark? That’s a 7 seat SUV starting at $37K damn close to where the Santa Fe Sport *tops out* in price a whole class size lower.
"Jdust" (jdist)
11/19/2017 at 04:19, STARS: 2
Agreed. SFS 2.0t also has standard leather seats, 7inch screen with Android Auto and Apple Carplay. Blind spot detection is also standard, as are heated seats because of the leather.
"2017 Santa Fe Sport owner" (platinumghost)
11/19/2017 at 05:09, STARS: 2
The vehicle in these photos is a base model. Not a 2.0 turbo. Anyone who visits the Hyundai website can see that. The base 2.0 turbo model has 18" wheels, not 17", and includes foglights and a larger in dash display with Android auto.
The model you show here has the same 17" wheels that my 2017 2.4 non turbo sport has, and the smaller non Android auto equipped infotainment screen, and no foglamps. If you don’t even know what you’re reviewing, how is anyone supposed to value your opinion?
"2017 Santa Fe Sport owner" (platinumghost)
11/19/2017 at 05:30, STARS: 0
https://m.hyundaiusa.com/build-and-price.aspx
Readers should really go here and see for themselves.
"2017 Santa Fe Sport owner" (platinumghost)
11/19/2017 at 05:36, STARS: 0
I agree. The model reviewed is not a turbo at all. It’s the very bottom of the tier. A 2.4 base level trim, not even close to a turbo. That means one of two things; the reviewer either is lying for some reason, or is incompetent. Either way, this review is not credible.
"Craigpgh" (pghcraig)
11/19/2017 at 09:32, STARS: 1
That’s because all the features that would have buttons are not in this trim. I passed on this last year when I was car shopping because to get any good features it would be as much as an Audi Q5 the Kia Sportage on the other hand at 34,000 get you a fully loaded vehicle and is a lot more fun to drive with its Turbo
"Craigpgh" (pghcraig)
11/19/2017 at 09:33, STARS: 1
Lane keep assist blind spot detection traction control and a few other things would normally go there there are more blank than features to fill the panel though and the fog lights are just on the regular arm on the steering wheel
"Speed-144" (speed-144)
11/19/2017 at 09:55, STARS: 1
The Santa Fe Sport 2.0T comes standard with many options not on this rental unit. This appears to be a standard Santa Fe model without the turbo - which is what rental companies have. A turbo comes standard with fog lamps, side roof rails, blind spot detection and Android Auto just to name a few - I see none of these options. Unless this is some strange Santa Fe model, it’s not a turbo unit.
"fhrblig" (fhrblig)
11/19/2017 at 10:13, STARS: 0
Neither is my Optima, but I have a slew of switch blanks to the left of the steering wheel similar to one of the pics above. It doesn’t bug me or anything. I guess it is a little lazy, design-wise. The Koreans are definitely not the only ones who do it. Every time I poke around looking at Challenger Hellcats it makes me laugh that most of them seem to have 3 blank steering wheel buttons on the right.
"Greq" (grpdagod)
11/19/2017 at 11:25, STARS: 1
That isn’t a US 17 turbo that’s for sure. They don’t come equiped with out blind spot monitoring nor does a US apec turbo not have Android auto or apple car play. Also dual climent is standard on the turbo in the USA...LEDs in the fog area as well...oh and the rims are off a 2.4 here in the US...where are you posting this from. Not the USA as that my friend is a base 2.4 awd here as that is now the oy way to not get the larger 7" screen. Check your info
"Greq" (grpdagod)
11/19/2017 at 11:27, STARS: 1
Not here in the US. That is a base 2.4
"Mono" (moloe)
11/19/2017 at 11:30, STARS: 2
Wait wait wait...
I’m gonna go with everyone else’s observation of your article.
You take a base car and judge it for what it isn’t.(?!)
You mention a very solid point at the beginning, the car is priced high, ok.
But when you bought a non-gps car, you can’t judge it for not having a gps.
If you opted for the tech package ($3000) you would be overjoyed by gps, android and Apple CarPlay, infinity sound system, a key fob with push button starter, a huge 8” touch screen and an upgraded reverse camera from vga to 720p (because you care so much about that) ... heck you could have even gotten the panoramic sunroof that ALLLL Santa Fe owners (and non owners) go crazy about.
You could have gotten the 1.6turbo engine and had power to overpass on a highway
If you don’t like empty buttons, that tech package could have given you heated seat (front and back) and ventilated seats, electric handbrake button, heated steering wheel button, 120volt power socket button...
If you only got that aforementioned tech package you would probably be raving about how you can tell Alexa to start your car and set the temperature to 75 on a cool day or send locations to your GPS from your cell or just start your car with your smartphone ...
But you didn’t
You compare the price of your car to an X1???? Dude, wake up.
If I were you I would change the title of your rant to-
“The car would be great if I only chose the right trim to suit my needs/wants”
I always want to end rebutles with something constructive or else it would sound like I dislike you.
I think you shared some great insight about the car, thanks.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 12:35, STARS: 0
You would have an exceptionally valid point, except I didn’t pay for it LOL. I’m telling you my feelings based upon the window sticker price and options that it was indeed equipped with. This vehicle isn’t owned by me.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 12:36, STARS: 0
Perhaps I’m mistaken. However the paperwork I received with the car indeed states VERY clearly that it is indeed a sport 2.0 turbo AWD.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 12:38, STARS: 0
Again, sinply going off of the paperwork that I received upon taking delivery of the vehicle. Perhaps it isn’t correct? I’ll double check it all over. I definitely appreciate the insight.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 12:39, STARS: 0
Could indeed be the case, I’m starting to scratch my head because I definitely don’t know much about these. I’m simply going off of the paperwork that denoted all of the vehicle information as I’ve listed it.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 12:41, STARS: 0
Excellent points, couldn’t agree more!
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 12:41, STARS: 0
Thanks for clearing that up, this vehicle did have traction control on the top portion of the switch panel I should note.
"PS9" (PS9)
11/19/2017 at 12:41, STARS: 1
Bullshit. There’s no way this sleepy crossover potato has a real 7k redline.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 12:46, STARS: 0
Definitely not lying for any reason, I am literally simply going off of the paperwork that was given to me with the vehicle. As I’ve stated multiple times now, I don’t know a great deal about these, and this was my first time behind the wheel of one of these vehicles. The paperwork supplied to me from the company that gave it to me stated it is what I said it was. Perhaps they’re a bunch of morons and made me look stupid? I’m not remotely counting that out. What I do know is I’m as honest as can be and I don’t pull punches. I simply reviewed it in a way that I perceived it based on what I was told it was, and perhaps I was mistaken?
Also I didn’t suction cup a “tablet” to the windshield. It’s a Rand McNally’s GPS and it’s what I had to use hah.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 12:47, STARS: 0
Not sure if that’s sarcasm or what, but it doesn’t rev worth a shit lol.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 12:55, STARS: 0
I didn’t delete your comment, nor do I even know how to delete comments. Additionally I wouldn’t delete comments, I want to hear everything that everyone has to say.
I’ll say it again, I went off of the paperwork given to me at the time of delivery of this vehicle. Perhaps they made a mistake? Perhaps. At this point, I’m beginning to question it myself because I have zero doubts that you guys know more about standard features than I do.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 12:57, STARS: 0
I did say that the Santa Fe Sport has some redeeming qualities, and I feel it’s going to be reliable in the long term. The transmission in the vehicle I had was very sluggish in terms of shifting and wanted to hold gears for too long. That was simply the experience that I had with it.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 12:59, STARS: 0
I’m addressing each of you individually, and appreciate the input. I was simply going off of the paperwork that was given to me upon taking delivery of this vehicle. Perhaps there was indeed a mistake, and I’m starting to believe that is the case!
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 13:03, STARS: 0
If you watch my video review, I indeed mention that everything is available as an option. I knocked it because I felt as if Nav should have been a standard option. I never once said none of it wasn’t optional, as I am aware that options are extensive for this vehicle.
I compared the Durango GT price to the upper line Santa Fe Sport and even mention in my video that they’re in an entirely different class. This was covered roughly towards the end of my video review, I am very much aware that they’re not remotely in the same class. I cross shop very unconventionally, and I know many people that do as well. You’d be surprised.
Additionally I want to say that based on reader comments I feel very strongly that this vehicle was indeed a 2.4 model, and I’m making sure I heavily clarify that I was simply going off of the paperwork given to me with the vehicle. Perhaps that was a bad idea and that the company (not going to mention names) dropped the ball.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 13:09, STARS: 0
Okay everybody, I want to thank you for pointing out that I may have been incorrect in the model naming for this vehicle. I’ve thrown an author edit at the top of this article, and I definitely want to sincerely apologize for any inaccuracies that I have posted. I assure you it was NOT intentional and I simply went off of the paperwork I was given. Regardless, I should have verified it with the VIN and I totally eat crow on that. I appreciate the input, as many of you are owners and I have zero doubts that I was mistaken and you are very much correct.
I want to reiterate again that any inaccuries were not intentional whatsoever.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 13:13, STARS: 0
I don’t ever set out to “tear down” any vehicle. I’m about as unbiased as you’ll ever find. I’ve reviewed cars that cost upwards of six figures and as low as 300$. I simply state exactly what I feel, like it or hate it.
I’ve thrown an author edit at the top of the page and addressed comments individually on the model discrepancy. Still yet, it doesn’t alleviate the horrible transmission or 2005 infotainment screen. Yes I know better options are available and I mentioned that directly in my video.
Thanks for your feedback!
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 13:16, STARS: 0
I don’t expect everyone to agree with all of my points, that’s the beauty of being a car enthusiast for sure. I don’t doubt that software is an issue, my Veloster DCT had some issues that was worked out with some software flashes and made things far better.
When you load these down, options are very expansive and plentiful, and if you REALLY watch my review, you’ll find that my biggest complaints was lack of options. With options factored in my complaints would be mostly around the transmission. I mentioned numerous times how highly I thought of the handling, and I’m still impressed by it. Additionally I found the exterior to be aesthetically appealing.
Simply my opinions, and I truly appreciate your taking time to offer feedback!
"BenjiTheHunter" (benjithehunter)
11/19/2017 at 14:21, STARS: 0
The RAV4 is the worst SUV in its class hands down!
"Textured Soy Protein" (texturedsoyprotein)
11/19/2017 at 14:35, STARS: 1
I was just giving you a hard time about the RAV4 and not-actually-a-tablet. That’s a giant-ass GPS! But the RAV4 does suck.
For a rental appliance, the base model SFS is pretty good. It’s definitely boring but it was very comfy and quiet while still having at least competent handling for its segment. I drove it mostly on the highway and I want to say I topped 30 mpg. Mine might have been fwd, I can’t remember. I drove around my parents in the back seat and my mom actually asked what kind of car it was because she thought it was so comfy.
I think if you had set your expectations based on knowing it was a base model, and turned off the damn ECO mode, you would’ve viewed it in a different light.
For reference, this is what the turbo interior looks like:
If I were in the market for a comfy cruiser crossover, I would legit consider a turbo SFS, or a 2014-up Kia Sorento V6 that shares its platform, with the nice panoramic sunroof.
Their awd system isn’t anything super off-roady but it’s pretty decent for a fwd-based setup, and the lock button helps to get out of the occasional deep snow situation.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 14:39, STARS: 0
Well admittedly I didn’t think the interior looked bad. I had mentioned aesthetics both exterior and interior were a very strong suit.
The turbo leather interior is definitely gorgeous. I’d also like to clarify I did use Sport mode and the transmission just wanted to hold gear like mad. However it did shift far faster, and I suppose that’s something I should have demonstrated.
I wanna be clear, I didn’t hate this vehicle. As stated I’d recommend in its’ segment for someone that isn’t looking for a thrilling driving experience.
The gps is huge, but it looks small in a semi lol.
"BenjiTheHunter" (benjithehunter)
11/19/2017 at 14:39, STARS: 1
Based off experience working for years at a major auto auction, the best Midsized SUV’s are the Pilot(2017 and newer), Sorento, Edge, Santa Fe Limited(3.3L is super smooth and a Wards 10 best winner)and Journey(Pentastar V6 is a workhorse, Wards 10 best winner), the worst SUVs are the Highlander(horrible all around) Traverse (mediocre acceleration, cheap interior) Murano(CVT problems galore) and CX7(CVT Problems).
"BenjiTheHunter" (benjithehunter)
11/19/2017 at 14:53, STARS: 1
The majority of newer vehicles have transmissions that adapt to the driver, you can also drive it in manual mode and it’ll drive the same way the next time you drive in automatic mode, I drive a lot of vehicles to auction that are this way especially VWs. Another thing that’ll substantially improve the driving performance of the Santa Fe is to swap out the spark plugs, Hyundai likes to use Denso Iridium truck plugs, the spark plugs have a huge .75mm electrode, replace them with the .oo4mm electrode Denso Iridium Plugs(IK16) and you’ll be shocked at the difference.
"BenjiTheHunter" (benjithehunter)
11/19/2017 at 15:00, STARS: 0
But at least its a real AWD System, not a pseudo plastic AWD System like Honda, Toyota and Subaru have been called out on.
"BenjiTheHunter" (benjithehunter)
11/19/2017 at 15:07, STARS: 1
The Santa Fe Sport is considered a small midsized SUV it doesn’t compete with the Compact class, that would be the Tucson.
"PS9" (PS9)
11/19/2017 at 15:08, STARS: 1
I KNEW IT, THAT REDLINE WRITES CHECKS THAT POTATO ASS CAN’T CASH
LIIIIIIEEEEESS
"Textured Soy Protein" (texturedsoyprotein)
11/19/2017 at 16:02, STARS: 0
No.
The SFS uses a fairly standard transverse-engined awd setup with a power takeoff unit sending power to the rear differential. It’s up to the awd computer to decide how and when to engage the rear wheels. Toyota and Honda use mechanically very similar setups.
Hyundai’s calibration is better because by default it engages the rear wheels when pulling away from a stop instead of the others waiting until there’s front wheelspin to engage the rear wheels.
The lock button on the Hyundais is also useful. Toyota at one point included a lock button on the RAV4, but not the Highlander. I’m not sure if it’s still there on the RAV4.
Subaru mounts their engines longitudinally and uses a real center differential. Depending on the model this is either a viscous coupling or a computer-controlled clutch pack. But either way the rear wheels are engaged all the time and the differential varies the split of power from front to rear depending on available traction. This is far superior to most typical power takeoff unit systems, including the one from Hyundai.
"Textured Soy Protein" (texturedsoyprotein)
11/19/2017 at 16:03, STARS: 1
Honestly I’m not sure why your post drew so many people out of the greys. It’s weird. Like this got picked up by some kind of SEO algorithm and people are coming out of the woodwork. I’ve occasionally had a similar experience.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 16:39, STARS: 0
Hey I’m not complaining. I definitely have never video edited in my life and this was my first ever video review. As mediocre as it is, it’s a start. I try to be as unbiased as I can be and I’m very honest in what I say. I love writing and I’m insanely humble, so I’ll say this haha... this is the first piece I’ve ever written that has “triggered” someone or gotten some hate lol.
I’m definitely not complaining, people are reading it and exposure is exposure. Even the best get tons of haters and I love anyone, lovers or haters that takes time to read my mediocre articles.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 16:41, STARS: 0
LOL this gave me a good chuckle, the speedometer is also insanely ambitious.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 16:42, STARS: 0
Very good information, I appreciate the feedback. Much of my driving ended up being in manual mode because the automatic programming was literally making me rage pissed.
As far as plugs, I don’t own this particular vehicle. I can only assume everything is kept to exacting OEM standards.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 16:44, STARS: 0
I simply compared it to some vehicles that I’d seen major publications pitting it against. I read zero reviews about this thing before driving it so I could formulate my own meaningful review. I simply educated myself as to some of the competitors based upon that.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/19/2017 at 16:47, STARS: 0
I can’t say I disagree with that assessment at all. I’ve driven the new Edge and found it to be very good indeed. The ecoboost model has some serious grunt behind it, and the overall driving feel was very good.
I want to reiterate again that I’m not a Santa Fe hater. I’ve put some serious miles on it, and I’ll say it again... it’s very smooth, it handles very well, I just dislike the transmission and lack of equipment. I do realize that many features are available, and perhaps that would enhance my feelings about it. However, that also quickly shoots the price up into some very good company, and that’s where I start cross shopping elsewhere.
"Adiken43" (adiken43)
11/19/2017 at 22:33, STARS: 0
Its funny how this guy when the absolute cheapest route in buying the base base of base model in purchasing his SUV and wants the best quality he buddy spend the extra 2g’s and you will have Nav big screen blind spot ast its your own fault price wise Sante fes are bang for yhe buck Durangos and BMW Rav 4's are way more money thats why you went with a Sante fe and you got a cheap one you should write a blog how cheap you are and then complain about it oh wait you just did
"Rena" (reneah)
11/19/2017 at 23:02, STARS: 1
I’m hung up on the no heated seats. What?? My 2001 Santa Fe had heated seats! Tragic, Hyundai.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/20/2017 at 00:43, STARS: 0
Bingo. My 1986 Audi 5000 had heated seats...
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/20/2017 at 00:47, STARS: 0
Clearly you didn’t read the article or watch the video review. Instead, you skimmed about a third of it and decided to write a comment that completely clarifies that you indeed did not read the entire article.
Clarification - this is NOT my vehicle. I’m simply reviewing a vehicle that’s been in my possession for a few days.
Hence my criticisms. Yes, I’ll say it again, I’m extremely aware that these options exist. I’ll throw my point out there again, at THIS price point, the vehicle should have better equipment options. Ironically, I’m not the only one that feels this way. A passenger I had was stupified at the horrendous infotainment system, horrendous back up camera, and the audio system has about as much punch as my 1990 Eagle Talon.
I would say thank you for your feedback (as always) but your feedback doesn’t remotely reflect anything accurate.
"Arrivederci" (arrividerci)
11/20/2017 at 08:06, STARS: 0
Like a few others have already chimed in - this looks like the 2.4L base model. Just bought my wife a Kia Sorento with the 2.oL turbo and it’s a great engine and transmission. Not sure if they use the same transmission on the base model or not, but we test drove the Edge, Murano, Outback, CX5, Santa Fe Sport 2.0T, RDX and probably some other stuff I can’t recall right away. The Sorento, SFS 2.0T both had the best automatic, we even thought it shifted more smoothly than the CX5.
One thing to note about the 2.0T - it hits peak torque at 1450 rpms. Driving this rig around town with that low, flat torque curve makes it feel a lot more spritely than it has any right being.
Hers is a 2017 Sorento EX AWD 2.oT that we bought as a factory demo with 15k on the clock for $25k. Comes with leather, heated seats, dual power seats, power liftgate, blind spot, rear cross traffic, UVO, Apple CarPlay, remote start and a host of other things I can’t remember. It’s certainly not exciting , but then again, neither is anything else in this class.
"Deeznuts" (mrbankies9o)
11/20/2017 at 09:49, STARS: 0
i have a 2015 sport AWD with Ultimate Package. I have kept up with all maintenance. Till this anyone who gets in the is so impressed by this car, thay rave about it. I absolutly disagree with your comments. My Santa Fe is the best in its class, i have had no issues what so ever, i can take any BMW off the line with ease, and it does not need to be in the shop every 4 months like “your phenominal” BEAMER. I will keep thus car for another 6 years. It is wonderful AWD with power, no issues as you have mentioned.
BTW, i got my ride for 28k fully loaded. Go work on car buying/negotiating skills. Stop buying the lowest model than complain what it dosent have....Shit Artical you wrote.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/20/2017 at 10:11, STARS: 0
I’ll respond again, to another comment lacking an opinion based off my article.
1) This is not my vehicle.
2) I don’t need to work on my car negotiating skills. This isn’t my car. Plus I’m told I’m the car whisperer.
3) Bimmer not Beamer.
4) I’d pay to see you attempt to outrun a BMW X1 28is which is the base. You’d get your feelings hurt.
"Marcus" (marcusgabilheri)
11/20/2017 at 11:28, STARS: 2
I have the 2017 Hyundai santa Fe sport 2.0T with the ultimate package and both me and my wife love the car. With the tech package you get access to all the features you were missing success as Android auto and appreciate car play. You also get cameras in all sides making for a very cool 360 degree image viewed from above to make parking a breeze. I have friends with BMW and Mercedes and they envy the tech on my car. So completely disagree with your review.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/20/2017 at 13:41, STARS: 0
Star for a very well thought out post, I appreciate that.
Again, I do know that those options exist, however, the price tag gets very steep. Hence why I mentioned “options are laughable until you dig deep into your pocketbook” and I perhaps I should have made more of an emphasis on this. However, even at 40k, a 360 degree camera is really cool tech.
Not everyone is going to agree with every person’s opinion, which is what makes being an enthusiast so great. Again, very well thought out post, and awesome feedback.
My review was on the model I was given, and I still stand behind the fact that at the price point of THIS particular vehicle, options were just not appealing.
"fintail" (fintail)
11/20/2017 at 19:42, STARS: 1
Weird how you attracted many first time posters, its as if this was linked to a Hyunkia fanboy forum or something.
BMW and MB owners envious of the tech lulz, “ i can take any BMW off the line with ease” LOLOLOL these people are on something.
"fintail" (fintail)
11/20/2017 at 19:43, STARS: 0
Did you come here from a fan forum or are you an employee or what.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/20/2017 at 19:52, STARS: 1
Far and away, this was the most successful thing I’ve written in Oppo lol. Perhaps my harsh headline brought some attention? I didn’t even really share the link either.
My DSM tribute article did well but I shared the link and it spread heavily. No idea what happened here hah.
Couldn’t agree more. Everyone thinks I’m completely trashing this vehicle, and indeed I’m not. It has like two redeeming qualities (insert sarcasm)
"fintail" (fintail)
11/21/2017 at 09:43, STARS: 1
Your piece either triggered an algorithm in a search engine,or was somehow shared to a fan forum. I have never seen the volume of wacky defensive platitudes aimed at your material aimed anywhere else. I still can’t get over the BMW line, his town must only have 1984 318i and 528e or something. These are the same people who will rabidly claim an Equus or K900 is every bit the equal of an S-Class. Hyunkia definitely has followers.
It’s a generic mommymobile kid-hauling sled. It will be just fine for that purpose.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/21/2017 at 11:44, STARS: 1
Yeah I’m starting to believe that someone that was triggered must have shared it to a forum or Facebook group as you said. Seems like that would make a ton of sense.
Your BMW comment literally about made me drown, I read that while drinking coffee. Terrible idea haha.
Hyundai and Kia definitely are establishing a fan base, no doubt. To compare a K900 to any level of S class however is beyond funny. That’s almost delusional. I’d hope they know better.
Couldn’t agree more on your final thoughts. That was basically what I was trying to say in a tactful way.
"fintail" (fintail)
11/21/2017 at 15:49, STARS: 1
No doubt you triggered someone who shared it with his like-minded friends. They piled on. Another case where posting history speaks volumes. When lots of comments pop up from newbies, you know something is in the air.
A Santa Fe is not on my list, but if someone I knew with a use for such a thing wanted one, I wouldn’t oppose them.
"Powershiftmedia-ResidentDSMGuru" (matt-powershiftmedia)
11/21/2017 at 16:09, STARS: 1
The Santa Fe Sport definitely has a place. No doubt about it. It’s not a terrible vehicle. It’s good for what it is intended to be.
Thanks for the feedback. Clearly my clever headline and whimsical writing style spoke volumes here LOL