2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Vs Santa Fe Sport Comparison

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe
2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe

Base Engine:

3.3 L V6

Horsepower:

290 hp @ 6400 rpm

Torque:

252 ft-lbs. @ 5200 rpm

Fuel Economy:

18/25 mpg*

Seating capacity:

7

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

Base Engine:

2.4 L Inline 4

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 6300 rpm

Torque:

181 ft-lbs. @ 4250 rpm

Fuel Economy:

20/27 mpg*

Seating capacity:

5

Hyundai Santa Fe vs Santa Fe Sport

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The biggest decision buyers make when considering the purchase of an SUV is vehicle size. Bigger isn't always better, and many people find that a mid-size crossover that gets favorable highway mileage is the way to go. On the other hand, there's no denying that a huge amount of cargo space is a must for some, especially large families. Hyundai offers two models worthy of a close look, the Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport. The 2016 Santa Fe is a roomy, well-designed large SUV with a long list of standard features that makes the price tag appealing. The smaller yet versatile Santa Fe Sport is aimed at those consumers who want an affordable transport vehicle that is roomier than most of the competitors in its segment. Whichever model you choose, you will be purchasing an SUV that boasts top safety scores and a comfortable, quiet ride.

Performance

The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe is powered by a 3.3L V6 engine that pumps out a total of 290 horsepower. Acceleration is very quick, with the vehicle going from zero to 60 mph in just 7.7 seconds. You have the choice of front- or all-wheel drive on both the SE and Limited trims. The six-speed automatic transmission is very smooth-shifting, and steering is very precise. Your passengers will not have to shout to be heard because the sound-dampening is above-average.

The smaller 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport comes with a 2.4L, 4-cylinder engine that delivers 190 horsepower. Six-speed automatic transmission is the only choice. All-wheel drive is optional on both trims. Ride quality is very firm, and the vehicle is even quieter than its larger brother. It's one of the most nimble crossovers in its segment when it comes to taking tight turns. Parking in those small spaces at the supermarket is a breeze.

Appearance

The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe is designed with generous front- and second-row volume. You and your front passenger ride in total comfort, and even the rear seating area is sized to fit two kids with ease. The second-row seats are reclining, and the rear seats are 50/50 folding, opening up a good amount of cargo space. The outward appearance is striking, with a good blend of gentle curves and sharp swoops. Standard exterior features on both trims include fog lights, a rear spoiler, and alloy wheels.

The Santa Fe Sport boasts above-average materials quality in the comfortable cabin, and the third row seating area is one of the largest of any compact crossover. This does not take away from the cargo volume, however. You'll be impressed with how much room there is back there to stow large packages. A rear spoiler, LED headlight accents, and tinted rear windows are standard on both trims.

Safety

None of the basic safety features are missing from the Santa Fe or Santa Fe Sport. Anti-lock brakes, full stability and traction control, and front-side and side-curtain airbags are standard. The Santa Fe can be purchased with several package add-ons that include rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The rearview camera is standard on the Santa Fe and the Santa Fe Sport 2.0T, and optional on the Sport base trim.

The 2016 Santa Fe gets top marks in seat/head restraint design and received good scores for overall crash protection. The compact Santa Fe Sport earned a perfect five-star rating for overall crash protection.


If you're having trouble deciding which size of SUV fits your needs, contact our Hyundai dealership today and schedule a test drive of the 2015 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport. Your decision might then be an easier one, but considering the pleasing amenities on both vehicles, you may have to flip a coin.

* EPA estimated MPG may vary by transmission, trim and individual driving behavior.