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Performance: | 8.1 |
For the most part, the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe and Hyundai Santa Fe Sport (the smaller 2-row version) feel composed and comfortable. There are no trailblazing performance traits here, but you won't find any glaring shortcomings either. Though the base engine in the Sport is a bit too mild, both models are fuel-efficient and have respectable handling. A more powerful engine is available in the Sport and standard in the 3-row Santa Fe.
The Santa Fe Sport comes standard with a 185-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain is a bit on the lazy side, but a snappier 240-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is available and delivers extra oomph when you need it for merging or towing. Fuel economy is nearly identical: The base engine gets 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while each rating drops by 1 mpg with the turbocharged engine.
Only one powertrain comes in the 3-row Santa Fe: a 3.3-liter V6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Test drivers say the 290-horsepower Santa Fe has a commanding amount of power and peppy acceleration. This powertrain gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
Every Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport comes standard with front-wheel drive, along with the option to upgrade to all-wheel drive. This SUV feels composed on the highway, and while it blocks out most road noise, its suspension feels too firm for some.
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