2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2019-2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is the TM generation and returns the nameplate to a single five-seat vehicle, with the separate Palisade taking over three-row duties. Engines were a 2.4-liter four-cylinder and a 2.0-liter turbocharged unit at launch, replaced for 2021 by a 2.5-liter and a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, alongside hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions. Transmissions were a six- or eight-speed automatic and, on turbocharged models from 2021, an eight-speed dual-clutch. Front-wheel drive was standard with all-wheel drive optional.

The 2021 update was substantial enough to function as a mid-generation reset, bringing new powertrains, revised styling, and the hybrid options. Interior quality and driver-assistance equipment were strong across the range. The MX5 generation that followed in 2024 adopted dramatically boxier styling and restored a third row.

As a used buy, the TM Santa Fe is comfortable and well equipped, and the post-2021 cars are the ones to target for the newer Smartstream engines and hybrid availability. The earlier 2.4-liter and 2.0-liter turbocharged engines carry the Theta II service campaign history, so recall verification matters on those years. The hybrid is the efficiency standout and has a good record. Theft vulnerability affecting certain immobilizer-free Hyundai and Kia models is worth checking against a specific vehicle.