2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

The Hyundai Santa Fe has been in flux over the years, just as much as the crossover segment itself continues to evolve.  So, of course for ‘17 that heritage continues with a host of updates. 

We grabbed a Quick Spin in a revised Santa Fe Sport, which is the 5-passenger version that used to be known as just the Santa Fe.  That name is now reserved for the 7-passenger variety.  And most changes do apply to both models, but not all. 

Starting outside, the typical new front and rear fascias are in play, as well as a new brushed appearance to the grille and re-worked headlights.  

Wheels are new, as is the rocker trim in between them.  Fresh DRLs complete the package.  

Engine choices remain the same, a 185-horsepower 2.4-liter I4 or 240-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-4 in the Sport; with a 290-horsepower 3.3-liter V6 in the 3-row Santa Fe. 

But all get software upgrades that add standard drive modes of Sport, Normal, and Eco, but also rob some power from the 4-cylinders. 

BRIAN ROBINSON: “The crossover market is so packed, there seems to be an entry for just about everyone.  Where I think the Santa Fe fits in is, it has a little bit of a sporty edge, but it’s really the attainable luxury theme that it clings to the most.”

JOHN DAVIS: So naturally inside the cabin, materials appear above price point and there’s comfortable space for both occupants and cargo. 

The center stack is re-configured, with a new 7-inch touchscreen available in the Sport, standard in the Santa Fe.  Both can upgrade further to an 8-inch screen with navigation.   

There are new safety features as well for ’17, including a 360-degree camera and automatic emergency braking. 

On sale now, the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport starts around $26,000; the 3-row Santa Fe going for about $31,000.