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- A Third Row with Real Car Seat Capability: This Santa Fe now has a third row with lower anchors AND tether anchors in both seats, which is a huge win. It’s not for everyday use, but it’s incredibly functional for occasional passengers or car seat setups.
- Smart, Everyday Storage Everywhere: Hyundai nailed the little things—deep cup holders, under-console pass-through storage, hooks for bags, and tons of charging spots. These are the features moms actually use daily, and they’re all standard.
- Flexible Cargo + Seating Setup: While you can’t use the third row and trunk space at the same time, the fold-flat third row gives you a really usable cargo area when you need it. It’s a great balance for families who only need that third row occasionally.
- Standard Tech That Feels High-End: Even on the base trim, you’re getting a curved digital display, user-friendly infotainment, and physical buttons where you actually want them. It’s intuitive, easy to use, and one of the best setups in this price point.
The Exterior
First Impressions: Bold, Boxy… and Very Different
This Santa Fe is a total departure from Hyundai’s previous design language.
- Boxy, squared-off shape
- H-shaped headlights (yes, really)
- Flat rear end that feels more utilitarian than sporty
It honestly looks like a mix between a Ford Flex and a Land Rover Defender—and whether you love it or hate it, it definitely stands out.
First Row
Interior: Shockingly Good (Especially for Base Trim)
I tested the base SE AWD trim (~$37K), and I was genuinely impressed with what Hyundai made standard.
Highlights:
- Curved digital display + infotainment system (one of the best in the game)
- Physical buttons for climate and volume
- Deep, functional cup holders
- Smart storage throughout—including a pass-through under the console
Everything feels intuitive, user-friendly, and practical, which is exactly what families need.
Second Row
Second Row: Functional, Spacious… But Not 3-Across Friendly
The second row feels very similar to the previous Santa Fe—spacious and comfortable.
You get:
- Great legroom and headroom
- Tons of storage (cup holders, hooks, charging, access to center console)
- Vents positioned for better airflow to rear-facing kids
Car Seat Reality:
- Great for 1–2 car seats
- Not recommended for 3-across
Between a narrow middle seat and seat belt overlap issues, this is not a vehicle I’d buy with the intention of doing three-across.
Third Row
Third Row: Usable (But Not for Daily Life)
This is the biggest change for 2024—the Santa Fe now has a third row.
Here’s the reality:
- Surprisingly good headroom (thanks to the boxy shape)
- Comfortable for short trips or occasional use
- Not ideal for daily passengers
Big win:
Both third-row seats have lower anchors AND tether anchors, which is best-in-class for car seat setup.
Trunk
Cargo Space: The Trade-Off
Here’s where you feel the impact of adding that third row.
- With the third row up → very limited trunk space
- With it folded down → great, usable cargo area
A full-size stroller will not fit with the third row up, so plan on using:
- An umbrella stroller, or
- Keeping the third row folded most of the time
Safety
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and received 5/5 stars on overall safety from NHTSA.
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