By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com
The 2014 Santa Fe features a flowing interior look, designed for family functionality and comfort. From the available heated rear seats and eight-way power driver seat with four-way lumbar support, to a standard 40:20:40 split-folding rear seat back. Also for 2014, Santa Fe helps keep clothes neat and crisp on hot, humid days with the option of ventilated front seats. These seats work via fans in the seat cushion and seat back blowing a gentle stream of air through the miniature perforations in the leather. The driver’s seating position and exterior mirrors can also be set and saved using the integrated memory seat available for the 2014 model year. Special care and attention went into other interior details, such as an optional panoramic sunroof, which allows more natural light into the cabin and rear side window sunshades. The three-row Santa Fe also features an available power liftgate for added convenience.
vailable dual-zone automatic temperature controls ensure a comfortable environment for all occupants during long journeys. The dual-zone climate controls also incorporate an automatic defogging system, which detects humidity levels using a sensor and removes it from the windshield. Another premium feature is a CleanAir Ionizer that produces negatively charged ions to help purify the air when the heater or air conditioner is running.
Santa Fe models offer an optional multifunction eight-inch touch-screen display with navigation. This third-generation display features a simpler user interface, enhanced voice recognition commands and improved navigation screens. The system is more intuitive for commonly used tasks. Simple pop-up messages now appear to help pair a cell phone and the voice recognition software understands street addresses and cities all in one sentence. The route screens display speed limits and details the next three maneuvers, one or two button pushes now complete most functions.
For added convenience and security, Santa Fe now offers Hyundai’s Blind Spot Detection system and a rear parking assistance system. Using advanced sonar sensors, the BSD system continually monitors traffic around the Santa Fe and if another vehicle is detected within a set distance, audio and visual elements alert the driver. Blind Spot Detection is standard on all Premium Package vehicles. In addition to the BSD, 2014 Santa Fe models equipped with the Technology package will have color keyed rear parking assistance sensors discreetly mounted in the rear bumper to enhance safety by sounding an audible alarm when an obstacle is detected in reverse.
Santa Fe also features a state-of-the-art braking package. The package includes four-wheel disc brakes, an Anti-Lock Braking System including Brake Assist providing maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution to automatically adjust the braking force to front and rear axles, based on vehicle loading conditions.
The three-row Santa Fe is powered by the 3.3-liter V6 engine. This V6 engine will suit a shopper’s needs in terms of towing, drivability and fuel economy. The Santa Fe’s Lambda II 3.3-liter GDI also has a high-pressure direct injection system, which dramatically increases power and torque, while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. This system eliminates the need for a larger displacement V6 engine and increases the compression ratio for greater thermal efficiency and output. Santa Fe’s V6 tow rating of up to 5,000 pounds is perfect for towing small boats or other weekend toys.
The 3.3-liter V6 engine is mated to Hyundai’s six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual control. This transmission offers smooth shifts and a wide ratio spread that suits the engine’s characteristics. An automatic transmission warmer is included with the V6 engine to keep the transmission oil at its optimal temperature, which helps to improve real-world fuel economy. Additionally, all models have an Active ECO System that modifies engine and transmission control to smooth out throttle response and to help increase real-world fuel economy.
Hyundai also introduced an all-new mobile app for the Blue Link telematics platform. The mobile app allows subscribers to remotely access various optional Blue Link features and services through compatible mobile devices. Completely redesigned from the ground up, the app has been significantly enhanced from the previous version and boasts a new user experience, faster navigation and innovative new features. Google Android and Apple iOS users can download the app today from Google Play or Apple iTunes, respectively.
The manufacturer’s suggested starting retail price is $33,700.00, the one I drove included the Limited Technology Package, and it came in at $39,540.00 including Inland Freight and Handling, the EPA fuel economy estimates 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
