I recently configured a 2020 Santa Fe in the mid-level SEL trim because I believe it could be the best value in Hyundai’s lineup.
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2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Intro
I appreciate what the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe has to bring to the table, especially for the class. The Santa Fe is not a luxury car, nor is it trying to compete with the luxury segment, but it has the comfort and quietness that even exceeds many luxury cars I’ve tested. I found this out after reviewing the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited with the 2.0l turbo.
I loved the comfort and quality of the fully-loaded turbo Santa Fe, but I don’t think it’s necessary for most average families. The Limited 2.0t Santa Fe starts at $37,875, granted there aren’t many options to add other than AWD, which is $1,700, but the SEL I configured came out to just $31,415.
2020 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL
So why the SEL? I don’t believe most families need the turbo engine since all you do is pull out in front of people and do ten below the speed limit, for that, a turbo is not necessary. The standard 2.4l four-cylinder engine produces 184 HP, and that is enough. The base SE comes with a few things like Lane Keep Assist, Apple Carplay/Android Auto, etc. But, the SEL adds push-button start, rear-cross traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, and more.
When I built my SEL online, I chose the free colors for exterior and interior but only added the Convenience Package for $2,250. This package gives you some excellent features most would want like 18” alloy wheels, Infinity sound system, wireless charging, a hands-free rear liftgate, dual-zone climate, and more. There is a Premium Package you can add, but I wouldn’t get it because the point is, Hyundai’s are at its best when you go easy on the options. You will be missing out on a panoramic sunroof, LED lights, an 8-way power passenger seat, and a few other items. Up to you if those options are worth an additional $2,750.
The only option I did not add is the AWD. I leave that up to you if you need it, the cost will be an additional $1,700. But as mentioned, the FWD SEL I configured with the Convenience Package comes in at $31,415, and that includes destination/freight, which is $1,140. This price is lower than the base price of a Palisade without options or freight. Most will fold down the third row in the Palisade anyway to make room in the trunk, so the Santa Fe works out while being cheaper on the price and at the pump.
2020 Hyundai Santa Fe models qualify for up to $2,000 off with 0% financing for 72 months and deferred payments up to 3 months. Talk to your dealer about what discounts you qualify for and if any discounts can be used along with the 0% finance deal. These extra discounts and finance rates are the icing on the Santa Fe cake.
2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Drive
The price of the Santa Fe is excellent, but I love it because the Santa Fe hits above its weight class. The ride of this vehicle can be compared to the Lexus RX 350, and the quietness of the cabin is right up there with luxury SUVs, if not better than luxury SUVs. It sounds like hyperbole, but it is true. The only downside to the comfort is Hyundai sacrificed some of the at-limit handling capabilities because the suspension is so soft. For a large SUV like this, I prefer comfort because you don’t buy the Santa Fe to exploit its chassis and suspension limits.
I’ll end with the supreme practicality, storage, and interior of the 2020 Santa Fe. You and your family get to be pampered in a tightly built vehicle that is an IIHS Top Safety pick with plenty of features you can enjoy like real infotainment that supports Apple Carplay & Android Auto. The rear seat space can fit a giraffe, and the trunk is large enough to start a small gym. I can’t find too many compromises with the new Santa Fe, and the price makes it even better.
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Kevin Meyn is an automotive journalist for Torque News concentrating on Hyundai content. Kevin is the founder of Exhaust Sports Auto Youtube channel, where he does professional car reviews on new and used vehicles. Through the use of various resources and extended Automotive expertise, Kevin documents the latest in automotive news revolving around Hyundai. Kevin graduated from NC State University studying Supply Chain Management but has had a passion for cars since he was a child. Follow Kevin on Twitter and Instagram @exhaustsports.
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