![]() Not because it will blow away supercars off the line - though it will win more stoplight drag races than you might expect - but because it’s such a radical departure from the experience of the previous, frustrating Santa Fe turbo. The most powerful Santa Fe is now … quick - almost unnervingly so. It’s paired with the new dual-clutch transmission, which shifts smartly through gears and is not only willing but happy to downshift. The 2.5 turbo (replacing the 2.0 turbo) makes 281 horsepower and 311 pounds-feet of torque - increases of 46 hp and 51 pounds-feet. ![]() ![]() The vehicle we tested, however, had the cream-of-the crop setup: A turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder that ditches the traditional torque-converter eight-speed automatic transmission for an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic. The new standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder (replacing a 2.4-liter four-pot), and there’s a new Santa Fe Hybrid, as well. “Hyundai can do better,” we said then, “and should.”Īs part of the Santa Fe’s updates for 2021, Hyundai gave it three new powertrains. Despite its win, our conclusion was that “we’d like to see the 2.0T powertrain improved.” The judges - of whom I was one - all preferred to drive other SUVs in the test when we had a choice. The engine produced only modest power, and the transmission seemed dead set against letting anyone use what power it had. The only thing holding the Santa Fe back was its optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission. Related: How Do Car Seats Fit in a 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe? ![]() All those are still strengths in the new Santa Fe. It was the lowest-priced vehicle in our test by more than $4,000, and it used its combination of value, straightforward and useful tech, and a well-appointed interior to grab the title. In that test, the previous generation of the Hyundai Santa Fe eked out a victory by a single point. Though it feels like ages ago, it hasn’t been two years since we last compared mid-size five-seat SUVs. And now it can be fun to drive, too? Rude. Versus the competition: Even with a new top trim level, called Calligraphy, the most expensive Santa Fe is still more affordable than most of its rivals’ high-end offerings - and a great value in terms of features for the money. Higher trims and option packages will add front parking sensors, a blind-spot camera, and other driver aids you'll appreciate having with you.The verdict: A new optional powertrain fixes the most significant weakness in the otherwise well-rounded Santa Fe. The smart Hyundai tech that comes standard is a huge part of that, as you'll start off with forward collision mitigation, lane keeping assist, rear parking sensors and adaptive cruise control. You'll really appreciate how safe the new Hyundai Palisade is, as evidenced by its selection by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) choosing it as a Top Safety Pick+. Even in the base level, there's a sense of sophistication and class, while choosing higher trims or available option packages will adorn your Palisade's cabin with premium leather upholstery and added features like a sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, digital information displays and more. Inside, you'll second guess if you're really in a Hyundai SUV, as the Palisade's cabin is gorgeous designed and appointed. Up front, the bold grille styling with both LED headlights and daytime running lights help you maintain visibility during your nightly and low-visibility driving around Cincinnati and Erlanger, while the fenders and lines and curves are all gorgeously designed. Right from the first look, the new Palisade is a gorgeously designed midsized SUV. Regardless of the trim level you choose, you can find a setup for your Palisade with all-wheel drive, which is recommended if you regularly travel beyond the Hebron and Covington areas where snowy and icy conditions are more abundant. The new 2021 Hyundai Palisade is a perfectly capable three-row, midsized SUV, powered by a 3.8-liter V-6 that produces 291 horsepower with 262 pound-feet of torque.
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