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The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe secured a narrow victory in a competitive mid-size SUV comparison test by delivering exceptional value, superior cargo utility, and user-friendly controls, despite some shortcomings in its drivetrain and front-seat comfort. This win echoes a similar triumph for the Santa Fe nameplate five years prior, reinforcing its reputation for outstanding value in a highly competitive segment. In a closely contested battle decided by a single point, the Santa Fe outperformed rivals like the new Honda Passport, Chevrolet Blazer, Ford Edge, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Nissan Murano.
What Gave The Hyundai Santa Fe Its Winning Edge on Value? The most significant advantage for the 2019 Santa Fe was its price. In a group of SUVs typically priced from the mid-$40,000s to low $50,000s, our tested Santa Fe Ultimate 2.0T AWD had an as-tested price of $39,905, including destination. This made it the lowest-cost vehicle in the comparison, yet it was far from a base model. It came exceptionally well-equipped, featuring amenities like:
This combination of a comprehensive feature set and a price approximately 15% below the group average—coupled with Hyundai's best-in-class warranty—made the Santa Fe a undeniable value leader. Interior quality also saw significant improvements over the previous Santa Fe Sport, with fewer low-rent materials and upscale touches like leather upholstery and fabric-wrapped roof pillars.
How Did The Santa Fe's Interior and Cargo Space Compare? The Hyundai excelled in practicality, topping the scores for cargo space and ease of use for controls. Its cargo area was nearly best-in-class, measuring 19.9 cubic feet behind the second row and offering a maximum depth of 78 inches with the seats folded. The Santa Fe also featured the most upright liftgate angle, which is better for loading bulky items, plus substantial underfloor storage and a hands-free power liftgate.
Judges unanimously praised the Santa Fe's straightforward controls. In an era of confusing touch-sensitive buttons and electronic gear selectors, the Hyundai offered physical knobs, buttons, and a conventional gearshift lever exactly where you'd expect them. This no-nonsense approach to the user interface was a welcome contrast to the Honda Passport's more complicated system, which was described as a "user facepalm."
Where Did The Santa Fe Fall Short Against Competitors Like The Passport? The primary weaknesses emerged during driving. The optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine was criticized for its uneven, peaky acceleration. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that sometimes hesitated to kick down, the drivetrain exhibited noticeable lag from a stop and during passing maneuvers. Furthermore, this performance compromise didn't yield superior fuel economy; the Santa Fe's observed 25.1 mpg ranked only third in the test.
This is where the Honda Passport shone. Its V-6 engine earned far better marks for smooth, responsive power while delivering nearly identical observed mileage (24.9 mpg). The Passport also outperformed the Santa Fe in front-seat comfort, with more supportive chairs and better in-cabin storage. These strengths brought the Honda to a near-tie with the Hyundai.
So, Which SUV Should You Choose: The Santa Fe or The Passport? The close final score ultimately comes down to preference and priorities. The choice between the two is clear:
The Santa Fe clinched the victory because its drawbacks were largely confined to the drivetrain and front seats. In other key areas like braking, handling, ride quality, and noise insulation, its performance was acceptable to good, and its advantages in value and practicality were decisive.
