2012 Hyundai Santa Fe

For overall value, the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe is only outshined by the best-reviewed 2012 Kia Sorento (Base MSRP: $21,250 to $34,850) which is better-looking and more engaging to drive, according to reviews. The 2012 Santa Fe is also a lame duck, so to speak. An all-new 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe, which will be offered in two- and three-row configurations, arrives in Fall 2012.

Both the base 175-horsepower 2.7-liter 4-cylinder and available 270-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine are paired with a six-speed transmission (and the 2WD 4-cylinder can be had with a stick). Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available.

A low base price, strong warranty and good standard equipment list boost the Santa Fe from a value perspective. It's just at a point in its life cycle where other options get more reviewer praise. A former Best Reviewed model, the Santa Fe still warrants a look, especially as the model year winds down; as the new model's arrival becomes imminent, dealers may offer attractive incentives to clear out the current model.

Since the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe has remained largely unchanged for the last few model years,  you can visit our full report on the 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe for a detailed analysis of reviewer feedback. You can also check out our new-model preview of the upcoming 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe (Base MSRP: $28,090 to $37,045).

EPA Fuel Economy Estimates

4-cyl 2WD manual: 20 mpg city / 28 highway / 23 combined

4-cyl 2WD auto: 19 mpg city / 26 highway / 21 combined

4-cyl AWD auto: 20 mpg city / 25 highway / 22 combined

V6 2WD auto: 20 mpg city / 26 highway / 23 combined

V6 AWD auto: 20 mpg city / 26 highway / 22 combined

All estimates assume the use of regular-grade gasoline. As you can see, regardless of what powertrain combination you select, you can expect to get 21 to 23 mpg overall while driving the 2012 Santa Fe.

NHTSA Safety Ratings:

Front Impact: 4 stars

Side Impact: 2 stars

Rollover Resistance: 4 stars

Overall: 3 stars

IIHS Safety Ratings:

Front Offset Impact: Good

Side Impact: Good

Roof Strength: Good

Top Safety Pick 2012