2012 Hyundai Santa Fe

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$23,225

starting MSRP

2012 Hyundai Santa Fe
2012 Hyundai Santa Fe

Key specs

Base trim shown

Overview

The good:

  • Acceleration
  • Gas mileage
  • Modern styling
  • Steering-wheel audio controls
  • Stick shift available

The bad:

  • No third-row seat

3 trims

Starting msrp listed lowest to highest price

Wondering which trim is right for you?

Our 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe trim comparison will help you decide.

Notable features

  • Four-cylinder or V-6
  • FWD or AWD
  • USB stereo input standard
  • Bluetooth connectivity standard

2012 Hyundai Santa Fe review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a midsize crossover that can seat up to five and competes with models like the Nissan Murano and Toyota Highlander. Buyers have a choice of either a four-cylinder or V-6 engine, and the Santa Fe comes in GLS, SE and Limited trims.

New for 2012
The Santa Fe’s grille has been redesigned, and hill descent control is now standard. GLS models with 17-inch wheels now have low-rolling-resistance tires.

Exterior
Roof rails are standard, but crossbars come standard on the higher trim levels. For 2012, two new colors — Venetian Red and Cabo Bronze — are offered. Exterior features include:

  • Standard 17-inch wheels
  • Optional 18-inch wheels
  • Optional body-colored rear spoiler
  • Optional chrome-accented door handles

Interior
All Santa Fe models have an iPod/USB input and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel. Cloth upholstery is standard, and leather is optional. Interior features include:

  • Standard rear privacy glass
  • Optional dual-zone climate control
  • Optional navigation system

Under the Hood
Mechanical features include:

  • Standard 175-horsepower four-cylinder engine
  • Optional 276-hp V-6
  • Standard six-speed automatic transmission
  • All-wheel drive available

Safety
The Santa Fe’s airbag complement includes side-impact airbags for the front seats, as well as curtain airbags that cover the side windows along the front and rear seats. Standard safety features include:

  • Antilock brakes
  • Electronic stability system with traction control
  • Active head restraints for the front seats

Consumer reviews

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.6
  • Interior design 4.5
  • Performance 4.4
  • Value for the money 4.4
  • Exterior styling 4.5
  • Reliability 4.3

Most recent consumer reviews

5.0

Our favorite model, The Santa Fe

This is our third Santa Fe, we have always been pleased by the car performance. I would buy another one This car has been very reliable for us

4.4

Personal Favorite Car

I used to own a Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 2010. When I needed a new car, I instantly looked for the same make and model. Its roomy backseat and large trunk space are ideal for me, and the number of cupholders is perfect. Leather seats and sunroof, excellent stereo system and seat warmers are all luxuries this vehicle has. Its a medium/large SUV, and I feel safe driving on the highway with it.

5.0

Love my Santa Fe!

I bought my 2012 Santa Fe in September 2011. This is the only vehicle I've driven over 5 years. The V6 has tons of power which is what I was looking for. Most of the smaller SUVs had a 4-cylinder with no get up and go. Power is a must when driving in Oklahoma City rush hour traffic. Both front and back seats are comfortable. The reclining back seats are great for long trips. Interior is easy to clean. It doesn't hesitate or slide going up a snowy icy hill. I trust this vehicle so much that I'm considering giving it to my 17 year old granddaughter. The only negative things about this vehicle is that the blind spot is annoying and at times has been dangerous. I wish the GPS screen was a little more advanced. But would definitely buy this vehicle again!

See all 57 consumer reviews

Warranty

New car and Certified Pre-Owned programs by Hyundai
New car program benefits
Bumper-to-bumper
60 months/60,000 miles
Corrosion
84 months/unlimited distance
Powertrain
120 months/100,000 miles
Roadside assistance
60 months/unlimited distance
Certified Pre-Owned program benefits
Maximum age/mileage
Less than 80,000 miles; less than 7 years old (currently MY18- MY24)
Basic warranty terms
Remainder of the 5-Year/60,000-Mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty. From original in-service date and zero (0) miles.
Powertrain
10-Yr/100K-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty. From original in-service date and zero (0) miles.
Dealer certification required
173-point inspection
Roadside assistance
Yes
View all cpo program details

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