2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport SUV: Review, Specs, & More
Hey guys! Thinking about the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport SUV? You've come to the right place. This article dives deep into what makes this SUV a solid choice, covering everything from its performance and features to reliability and overall value. Whether you're a potential buyer or just curious, let's get started!
Overview of the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is a compact SUV that offers a blend of comfort, utility, and style. It's designed to appeal to families and individuals who need a versatile vehicle for daily commuting and weekend adventures. This model year is part of the Santa Fe's third generation, which is known for its sleek design and improved fuel efficiency. The Santa Fe Sport stands out from the larger, three-row Santa Fe (now called the Santa Fe XL) by offering a more manageable size and a sportier driving experience. Hyundai aimed to provide a vehicle that was both practical and enjoyable to drive, and the 2014 Santa Fe Sport largely delivers on that promise. The vehicle offers two engine options, a range of features, and a comfortable interior, making it a competitive choice in the crowded compact SUV market. It's a vehicle that balances efficiency and performance, providing a smooth ride and ample cargo space. Let's delve into the specifics to see what makes this SUV tick.
Key Features and Specs
When it comes to the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, understanding its key features and specs is essential. The Santa Fe Sport comes with two engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The base 2.4-liter engine produces around 190 horsepower, which is adequate for most daily driving situations. If you're looking for more power, the 2.0-liter turbo engine cranks out approximately 264 horsepower, providing a noticeable boost in acceleration and overall performance. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is another important factor. The 2.4-liter engine offers an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the 2.0-liter turbo engine gets slightly lower figures at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. These numbers are competitive for the compact SUV class. Inside, the Santa Fe Sport offers a comfortable and well-designed cabin. Standard features include air conditioning, full power accessories, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and a six-speaker audio system with a CD player, satellite radio, and USB/iPod interface. Higher trim levels add features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and an upgraded infotainment system with a larger touchscreen display. Safety is also a priority, with standard features like antilock brakes, traction and stability control, and multiple airbags. Available safety options include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Overall, the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport offers a well-rounded package of features and specs that make it a compelling choice for SUV shoppers.
Performance and Handling
Discussing the performance and handling of the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, it's clear that Hyundai aimed for a balance between comfort and agility. The base 2.4-liter engine provides sufficient power for everyday driving, offering smooth acceleration and decent responsiveness. However, if you frequently carry passengers or cargo, or if you simply prefer a more spirited driving experience, the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is the way to go. The turbo engine delivers a significant boost in power, making the Santa Fe Sport feel much more lively and engaging. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to a comfortable ride. In terms of handling, the Santa Fe Sport feels stable and composed on the road. The steering is precise and provides adequate feedback, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and on winding roads. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections, providing a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. While it's not a sports car, the Santa Fe Sport offers a pleasant and confident driving experience. One thing to note is that the all-wheel-drive system (available as an option) provides added traction and stability in inclement weather conditions, making it a practical choice for those who live in areas with snow or rain. Overall, the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport offers a well-rounded performance package that should satisfy most drivers.
Interior and Comfort
Stepping inside the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, you'll find a well-designed and comfortable interior. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are supportive and comfortable, making long drives a pleasant experience. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with easy-to-reach controls. Materials quality is generally good, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas. Standard features include air conditioning, full power accessories, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trim levels add features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and an upgraded infotainment system with a larger touchscreen display. The infotainment system is user-friendly and easy to navigate, with clear graphics and responsive touch controls. Cargo space is also a strong point, with a generous 35.4 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. Folding down the rear seats expands the cargo area to a maximum of 71.5 cubic feet, providing ample room for luggage, groceries, or other gear. Overall, the interior of the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is a comfortable and practical space that's well-suited for families and individuals alike. The combination of comfortable seating, user-friendly technology, and ample cargo space makes it a standout in its class.
Technology and Safety Features
When it comes to technology and safety, the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to enhance the driving experience and keep occupants safe. Standard technology features include a six-speaker audio system with a CD player, satellite radio, and USB/iPod interface. Higher trim levels add an upgraded infotainment system with a larger touchscreen display, navigation, and a rearview camera. The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with clear graphics and responsive touch controls. Safety is a top priority, with standard features like antilock brakes, traction and stability control, and multiple airbags. Available safety options include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a lane departure warning system. These features help to alert the driver to potential hazards and can help prevent accidents. The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport has also performed well in crash tests, earning high ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Overall, the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport offers a well-rounded package of technology and safety features that provide peace of mind and enhance the overall driving experience. The combination of advanced safety systems and user-friendly technology makes it a competitive choice in the compact SUV segment.
Reliability and Common Problems
Discussing the reliability and potential problems of the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, it's important to consider both owner feedback and common issues reported by mechanics. Overall, the 2014 Santa Fe Sport is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle, but like any car, it's not without its potential problems. Some of the most common issues reported by owners include engine problems, such as stalling or hesitation, as well as electrical issues with the infotainment system or other electronic components. There have also been some reports of issues with the suspension and brakes. It's important to note that not all 2014 Santa Fe Sport owners will experience these problems, and many owners have reported having a trouble-free ownership experience. However, it's always a good idea to be aware of potential issues before making a purchase. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help to prevent or mitigate many of these problems. It's also a good idea to check the vehicle's history report and have it inspected by a qualified mechanic before buying a used 2014 Santa Fe Sport. Overall, while the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle, it's important to be aware of potential problems and take steps to ensure that the vehicle is properly maintained.
Pricing and Value
Evaluating the pricing and overall value of the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, it's clear that this SUV offers a competitive package in its segment. When it was new, the 2014 Santa Fe Sport had a starting price of around $25,000, depending on the trim level and options. Today, you can find used models for significantly less, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The value proposition of the 2014 Santa Fe Sport lies in its combination of features, performance, and reliability. It offers a spacious and comfortable interior, a choice of two engines, and a range of available technology and safety features. While it may not be the most luxurious or sporty SUV on the market, it provides a solid and dependable driving experience at a reasonable price. When comparing it to other SUVs in its class, the 2014 Santa Fe Sport often comes out ahead in terms of value. It offers similar or better features than its competitors, but at a lower price point. Of course, it's important to consider the vehicle's condition and mileage when evaluating its value. A well-maintained 2014 Santa Fe Sport with low mileage is likely to be a better value than a neglected one with high mileage. Overall, the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport offers a compelling value proposition for those looking for a reliable and affordable compact SUV. Its combination of features, performance, and pricing make it a standout in its class.
Final Verdict
So, what's the final word on the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport? This SUV offers a compelling blend of practicality, comfort, and value. It's a solid choice for families and individuals who need a versatile vehicle for daily commuting and weekend adventures. With its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available technology and safety features, the 2014 Santa Fe Sport provides a pleasant and enjoyable driving experience. While it may not be the most exciting or luxurious SUV on the market, it offers a dependable and affordable option that's well-suited for a wide range of drivers. The choice between the base 2.4-liter engine and the 2.0-liter turbo engine will depend on your personal preferences and driving style. If you prioritize fuel efficiency and don't need a lot of power, the base engine is a good choice. However, if you want a more spirited driving experience, the turbo engine is definitely worth considering. Overall, the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. If you're in the market for a compact SUV, it's definitely worth checking out. Just be sure to do your research, check the vehicle's history report, and have it inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase. With a little bit of due diligence, you can find a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport that will provide you with years of reliable and enjoyable service.
