Vehicle Overview
The first-generation Hyundai Santa Fe, launched in 2000 for the 2001 model year, established Hyundai in the mid-size SUV segment. Combining car-like handling, rugged styling cues, and a spacious cabin, it offered buyers a value-packed alternative to pricier rivals. Available as rear-wheel drive with optional on-demand four-wheel drive, the Santa Fe balanced everyday usability with light off-road capability.
| Segment | Mid-Size SUV (C/D-segment) |
| Body Style | 5-door SUV |
| Model Year | 2001 (introduced late 2000) |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive standard; on-demand full-time 4WD optional |
Key Specifications
| Specification | 2.4 L MPI I4 | 2.7 L V6 MPI |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2,359 cc SOHC, 16-valve | 2,694 cc SOHC, 12-valve |
| Power | 138 hp @ 5,250 rpm | 170 hp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 215 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | 234 Nm @ 3,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / 4-sp auto | 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD; optional 4WD | RWD; optional 4WD |
| 0–100 km/h | ~11.5 s | ~10.0 s |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Fuel Economy (combined) | ~10 L/100 km | ~11.5 L/100 km |
| Boot Capacity | 651 L (seats up) | 651 L |
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 kg (braked) | 1,800 kg (braked) |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 4,490×1,800×1,715 mm | Same |
| Wheelbase | 2,650 mm | Same |
Exterior Design
| Bold SUV Styling | Chunky grille with horizontal bars, flared wheel arches, and pronounced skid plates. |
| Functional Details | Roof rails, wide side cladding, and optional fog lamps. |
| Wheel Options | 15″ steel wheels on base; 16″ alloy wheels on GLS and up. |
| Color Palette | Earth tones (Granite Grey, Pine Green) and brighter hues (Atlantis Silver, Sangria Red). |
Interior, Comfort & Materials
| Spacious Cabin | Roomy front and rear seating for five; available third-row jump seats in U.S. markets. |
| Material Quality | Durable cloth upholstery; leather optional on higher trims. |
| Ergonomics | Tall driving position, tilt steering wheel, and logically grouped controls. |
| Storage | Deep center console bin, large door pockets, dual gloveboxes, and under-floor cargo compartment. |
Features & Infotainment
| Audio | AM/FM radio with cassette and CD player on GLS; steering-wheel audio controls optional. |
| Climate Control | Manual air-conditioning standard; automatic climate control on top-spec. |
| Convenience | Power windows front and rear, remote keyless entry, cruise control on V6 auto. |
| Instrumentation | Clear analog dials with trip computer displaying range, average fuel, and outside temperature. |
Safety & Ratings
| NCAP Status | Not tested under modern Euro NCAP; U.S. NHTSA later awarded 4-star frontal crash rating. |
Standard Safety
Dual front airbags
ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (GLS+)
Side-impact door beams
| Optional | Side airbags and traction control on higher trims. |
Driving Performance
2.4 L I4: Smooth revving and predictable, best-suited for highway and urban driving.
2.7 L V6: Stronger acceleration and relaxed cruising; silky power delivery in auto.
| Handling & Ride | Independent suspension front (MacPherson) and rear (multi-link) tuned for comfort with controlled body roll. |
4WD System: On-demand transfer case engages rear axle at slip; useful in rain and light snow.
Fuel Efficiency
2.4 L Manual RWD: ~10 L/100 km combined.
2.7 L Auto 4WD: ~11.5 L/100 km combined.
| Real-World | Owners report 10–12 L/100 km in mixed driving, depending on engine and drivetrain. |
Practicality & Everyday Usability
| Cargo Flexibility | 651 L behind second row; 1,856 L with rear seats folded. |
| Loading | Flat load floor and wide tailgate opening ease bulky items. |
| Visibility | High seating and large windows offer commanding view; optional rear parking sensors. |
| Towing & Load | Braked towing up to 1.8 t (V6); roof rails support bikes or cargo boxes. |
Warranty & Maintenance
| Warranty (Original) | 5 years / 100,000 km (varies by market). |
| Service Intervals | 10,000 km or 6 months for oil change and inspection. |
| Ownership Costs | Affordable parts, simple drivetrain, and widespread dealer support. |
Price & Value for Money
Launch MSRP (UK)
2.4 L LX Manual RWD: ~£16,500
2.7 L GLS Auto 4WD: ~£20,000
| Value Proposition | Underpriced against Japanese competitors while offering similar equipment and 4WD option. |
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Price (From) | Engines | Boot (L) | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Santa Fe (2001) | £16.5–20 k | 2.4 L I4 / 2.7 L V6 / 2.0 L diesel | 651 / 1,856 | Value & 4WD option |
| Mitsubishi Outlander (2003) | £17–22 k | 2.0 L / 2.4 L | 521 / 1,602 | Compact off-road ability |
| Toyota RAV4 (2000) | £17–21 k | 2.0 L / 2.4 L | 547 / 1,665 | Proven reliability |
| Honda CR-V (2001) | £17–22 k | 2.0 L / 2.4 L | 544 / 1,591 | Spacious interior |
Pros & Cons
Pros
Generous standard equipment and competitive pricing
Available 4WD for light off-roading and adverse weather
Spacious cabin and large cargo area
Comfortable ride with SUV capability
Cons
Fuel economy modest by today’s standards
Interior plastics and materials feel dated
Lacks modern driver aids and infotainment
Heavier curb weight impacts nimble handling
Overall Rating
4.0 / 5 stars
A strong value offering in the mid-size SUV class, combining Hyundai’s warranty and equipment levels with practical versatility.
Final Verdict
The 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a spacious, well-equipped SUV with light off-road ability and a compelling warranty—delivering solid capability at an attractive price.
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Pros & cons
- Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
- Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
Final verdict
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting balanced everyday usability. |
| Body style | Car |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.