2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport: Review, Specs & Reliability

by Alex Braham 57 views

Hey guys! Are you in the market for a reliable and versatile SUV? Let's dive deep into the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, a vehicle that combines practicality with a touch of style. This SUV has been a popular choice for families and adventure-seekers alike, and for good reason. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know, from its performance and features to its reliability and overall value. So, buckle up and get ready for a thorough exploration of the 2014 Santa Fe Sport!

Overview of the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is a compact SUV that offers a compelling blend of comfort, utility, and performance. It stands out in a crowded market with its sleek design, spacious interior, and a range of features that cater to diverse needs. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on a road trip, the Santa Fe Sport aims to provide a smooth and enjoyable experience. Available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, it offers versatility for various driving conditions. The 2014 model year is part of the second generation of the Santa Fe, and it brings several enhancements over previous models, making it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and well-rounded SUV. The Santa Fe Sport distinguishes itself from the larger, three-row Santa Fe (later known as the Santa Fe XL) by offering a more manageable size and a sportier driving experience.

Performance and Engine Options

When it comes to performance, the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport offers two engine options to suit different driving preferences. The base model comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing around 190 horsepower. This engine provides adequate power for daily driving and offers decent fuel economy. If you're looking for more punch, you can opt for the available 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which cranks out approximately 264 horsepower. The turbocharged engine delivers brisk acceleration and makes the Santa Fe Sport feel more responsive and engaging to drive. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and seamless shifts. The transmission also features a manual shift mode for those who prefer more control. The Santa Fe Sport's suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. Handling is also commendable, with precise steering and minimal body roll. Overall, the 2014 Santa Fe Sport offers a balanced driving experience that caters to both comfort and performance.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, you'll find a well-designed and spacious cabin. The interior is made with high-quality materials that give it a premium feel. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a pleasure. There's ample headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats, ensuring that passengers of all sizes can ride comfortably. The Santa Fe Sport also offers a generous amount of cargo space, making it ideal for hauling groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more room, providing flexibility for carrying larger items. In terms of features, the 2014 Santa Fe Sport comes standard with a variety of amenities, including air conditioning, power windows and locks, a six-speaker audio system, and Bluetooth connectivity. Available features include a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a rearview camera, and a touchscreen infotainment system. The infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, offering features such as navigation, smartphone integration, and voice control. Overall, the interior of the 2014 Santa Fe Sport is a comfortable and well-equipped space that enhances the driving experience.

Technology and Safety

In the realm of technology and safety, the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is well-equipped to keep you connected and protected on the road. Standard tech features include a six-speaker audio system with satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, and a USB port for charging and connecting devices. Upgrading to higher trim levels adds features like a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a rearview camera, and Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system. Blue Link provides features such as automatic crash notification, emergency assistance, and remote access to vehicle functions via a smartphone app. On the safety front, the 2014 Santa Fe Sport comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including antilock brakes, traction control, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. Available safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. The 2014 Santa Fe Sport has earned high marks in government and independent crash tests, providing peace of mind for you and your passengers. With its combination of advanced technology and comprehensive safety features, the 2014 Santa Fe Sport offers a secure and connected driving experience.

Reliability and Common Issues

When considering the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, reliability is a key factor to consider. Overall, the Santa Fe Sport has a reputation for being a reliable vehicle, but like any car, it has its share of potential issues. Some common problems reported by owners include issues with the engine, such as oil leaks and premature wear. The turbocharged engine, in particular, has been known to experience problems with the turbocharger and related components. Other potential issues include problems with the electrical system, such as malfunctioning sensors and glitches in the infotainment system. It's important to note that not all 2014 Santa Fe Sport owners will experience these problems, and many owners have reported trouble-free ownership experiences. To ensure reliability, it's recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing it, and to follow the recommended maintenance schedule. Regular oil changes, tune-ups, and inspections can help prevent problems and keep your Santa Fe Sport running smoothly for years to come.

Fuel Economy and Pricing

Fuel economy is an important consideration for many car buyers, and the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport offers competitive fuel efficiency for its class. The base model with the 2.4-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged model with the 2.0-liter engine gets slightly lower fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Actual fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions and habits. In terms of pricing, the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport has an original MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) of around $25,000 for the base model and $28,000 for the turbocharged model. However, used prices will vary depending on the condition, mileage, and location of the vehicle. You can typically find a used 2014 Santa Fe Sport for between $10,000 and $18,000, depending on its condition and features. When shopping for a used Santa Fe Sport, it's important to compare prices from multiple sources and to factor in any potential maintenance or repair costs.

Pros and Cons of the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

To help you make an informed decision, let's summarize the pros and cons of the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport:

Pros:

  • Spacious and comfortable interior
  • Available turbocharged engine offers brisk acceleration
  • User-friendly infotainment system
  • Comprehensive safety features
  • Competitive fuel economy
  • Attractive styling

Cons:

  • Some potential reliability issues, particularly with the turbocharged engine
  • Base engine can feel underpowered
  • Road noise can be noticeable at highway speeds

Alternatives to the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

If you're not completely sold on the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, there are several other compact SUVs that you may want to consider. Some popular alternatives include:

  • Toyota RAV4: Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency.
  • Honda CR-V: Offers a spacious interior and excellent safety ratings.
  • Ford Escape: Provides a sporty driving experience and a range of available features.
  • Mazda CX-5: Stands out with its stylish design and engaging handling.
  • Nissan Rogue: Offers a comfortable ride and a generous amount of cargo space.

Conclusion: Is the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport a Good Choice?

So, is the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport a good choice for you? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a reliable and versatile SUV with a spacious interior, a range of features, and a comfortable ride, the Santa Fe Sport is definitely worth considering. However, it's important to be aware of the potential reliability issues, particularly with the turbocharged engine. If you prioritize performance, the turbocharged engine is a great option, but if you're more concerned about fuel economy and reliability, the base engine may be a better choice. Overall, the 2014 Santa Fe Sport offers a compelling package that combines practicality, comfort, and style. With its attractive styling, spacious interior, and available features, it's a solid choice for families and individuals alike. Just be sure to do your research, get a pre-purchase inspection, and factor in any potential maintenance costs. Happy car hunting!