Hyundai Santa Fe

Santa Fe in brief

The Santa Fe has been in production since 2000 and is one of Hyundai’s largest SUVs in Europe. It competes with the Kia Sorento, Škoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace and Toyota RAV4, with technology closely related to the Kia Sorento.

Many used Santa Fes come with four-wheel drive and the potent 2.2 CRDi diesel engine, making them a popular choice for families, frequent travellers and those who tow caravans. In many European countries, Hyundai offers a 5-year unlimited-mileage warranty on new cars, which transfers to subsequent owners if the car is serviced according to the manufacturer’s requirements.

DM vs TM — what’s the difference

The DM generation (2012–2018) is a comfortable, well-equipped and reliable SUV. Alongside it in Europe was the longer seven-seat Grand Santa Fe, which is also commonly found in the used market.

The TM generation (from 2018) is larger, more modern and often a seven-seater. By the end of 2020, it had been significantly refreshed: a new platform, revised front end and interior with a rotary gear selector, plus the addition of a hybrid and plug-in hybrid to the range.

In 2024, Mazda refreshes the MX-5 generation — with a more angular design, even roomier, and now available only with hybrid transmissions. For most used-car buyers, the MX-5 is the best choice, especially after the refresh.

Engines and transmissions

The DM generation is dominated by the 2.2 CRDi diesel engine (around 197–200 hp); in some markets, a weaker 2.0 CRDi and 2.4 petrol engine were also offered.

In the MX-5 generation, before the refresh, the most common engine was the 2.2 CRDi (200 hp) with an 8-speed automatic transmission. After the refresh — 2.2 CRDi (202 hp) with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, hybrid HEV (around 230 hp) and plug-in hybrid PHEV (around 265 hp, always with all-wheel drive).

All-wheel drive (MX-5 generation — HTRAC) is available with most engines, and the majority of used cars in the market have it. Manual transmissions are rarely found.

What to check when buying a used Santa Fe

In diesel cars, check the particulate filter (DPF) and EGR, especially if the car has mostly been driven in the city. Automatic and dual-clutch transmissions should shift smoothly, without judders or hesitation.

If the car has a tow hitch, ask if it has towed heavy trailers — this puts extra strain on the transmission, all-wheel-drive system, and brakes. In all-wheel-drive versions, make sure the differential works without binding, and the suspension doesn't clunk.

Check the third row of seats and its mechanism, and in hybrids, look for any error messages. For PHEVs, check the charging equipment. Inspect the ride based on service records and technical inspections, and check the remaining warranty and recall campaigns with the official Hyundai representative using the VIN code.

Trims

Hyundai trim names vary by country and year; we list the names used in Germany, which are often found among cars imported to Lithuania.

Comparison of TM generations

For most buyers, the best choice is the Trend or Premium with the 2.2 CRDi engine or hybrid powertrain. The Signature is worth considering for luxury, but the plug-in hybrid only makes sense if you have a regular place to charge it.

Frequently asked questions