2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport SUV: Review & Specs

by Alex Braham 48 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into a detailed look at the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport SUV. If you're considering buying a used SUV, this model is definitely worth checking out. We’ll cover everything from its performance and features to its reliability and overall value. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Overview of the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is a compact SUV that offers a blend of comfort, style, and practicality. It’s designed to cater to small families and individuals who need a versatile vehicle for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. The Santa Fe Sport stands out with its attractive design, spacious interior, and a range of features that make it a competitive option in its class. When it was first released, it aimed to provide a more athletic and fuel-efficient alternative to the larger, three-row Santa Fe. This model year includes several enhancements over previous versions, focusing on improving the driving experience and overall user satisfaction. It's a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and well-rounded SUV.

One of the key highlights of the 2014 Santa Fe Sport is its engine options. The base model comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. For those who crave more punch, there's an available 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers significantly more horsepower and torque. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive shifts. The Santa Fe Sport also offers both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, giving buyers the flexibility to choose the setup that best suits their needs and driving conditions. This versatility makes it a great option for various climates and terrains.

Inside, the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport boasts a well-designed and comfortable cabin. The seats are supportive, making long drives more enjoyable, and the materials used throughout the interior feel upscale for its class. The dashboard layout is intuitive, with easy-to-reach controls and a user-friendly infotainment system. Standard features include air conditioning, a six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels add even more goodies, such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and an upgraded sound system. The Santa Fe Sport also offers ample cargo space, making it practical for hauling groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo area expands significantly, providing even more room for larger items. This combination of comfort, features, and practicality makes the Santa Fe Sport a compelling choice in the crowded compact SUV market.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's break down the key features and specs of the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. This will give you a clearer picture of what this SUV has to offer.

Engine Options

The 2014 Santa Fe Sport offers two engine choices:

  • 2.4-liter Four-Cylinder: This engine produces around 190 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. It’s a solid choice for everyday driving, offering a good balance of power and fuel economy.
  • 2.0-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: If you're looking for more power, this engine delivers approximately 264 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. It provides quicker acceleration and is great for those who enjoy a more spirited driving experience.

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency is an important factor for many buyers. The 2014 Santa Fe Sport provides decent fuel economy figures for its class:

  • 2.4-liter Engine: Expect around 20-22 mpg in the city and 27-29 mpg on the highway.
  • 2.0-liter Turbo Engine: This engine gets approximately 19-20 mpg in the city and 24-27 mpg on the highway.

Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on driving habits and conditions.

Interior and Technology

The interior of the 2014 Santa Fe Sport is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Standard features include:

  • Six-Speaker Audio System: Provides a decent sound experience for your music and entertainment needs.
  • Bluetooth Connectivity: Allows you to connect your smartphone for hands-free calling and music streaming.
  • Rearview Camera: Makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier and safer.

Upgraded trims offer additional features such as:

  • Leather Upholstery: Adds a touch of luxury and comfort to the seats.
  • Heated Front Seats: Keeps you warm during cold weather.
  • Panoramic Sunroof: Provides an open and airy feel to the cabin.
  • Upgraded Infotainment System: Includes a larger touchscreen display, navigation, and enhanced audio options.

Safety Features

Safety is always a top priority. The 2014 Santa Fe Sport comes with a range of standard safety features, including:

  • Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS): Helps prevent wheel lockup during hard braking.
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps maintain control of the vehicle in slippery conditions.
  • Traction Control System (TCS): Limits wheel spin to improve traction.
  • Multiple Airbags: Includes front, side, and curtain airbags for enhanced occupant protection.

Optional safety features include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which can provide added peace of mind.

Driving Experience and Performance

When it comes to the driving experience, the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and pleasant journey for both the driver and passengers. The steering is responsive and provides decent feedback, making it easy to maneuver the SUV in various driving conditions. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Santa Fe Sport delivers a confident and stable feel.

Engine Performance

The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is adequate for most daily driving needs. It provides sufficient power for merging onto the highway and navigating through traffic. However, if you frequently carry passengers or cargo, or if you simply prefer more spirited acceleration, the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is the way to go. This engine delivers a significant boost in power, making the Santa Fe Sport feel much more responsive and engaging to drive. The turbo engine's extra horsepower and torque make overtaking other vehicles effortless and provide a more enjoyable driving experience overall.

Transmission and Drivetrain

Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and efficiently. The transmission is well-tuned to match the characteristics of each engine, providing seamless gear changes and optimal fuel economy. The 2014 Santa Fe Sport is available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The FWD configuration is more fuel-efficient, while the AWD system provides enhanced traction and stability in adverse weather conditions. The AWD system can automatically distribute torque between the front and rear wheels as needed, ensuring optimal grip on slippery surfaces. This makes the Santa Fe Sport a capable choice for drivers who live in areas with snow or rain.

Ride Quality and Handling

The 2014 Santa Fe Sport strikes a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The suspension is designed to absorb bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. The steering is precise and responsive, allowing for easy maneuvering in tight spaces. While the Santa Fe Sport is not a sporty SUV, it handles corners with confidence and stability. The body roll is well-controlled, and the vehicle feels planted and secure on the road. Overall, the driving experience is pleasant and predictable, making the Santa Fe Sport a great choice for everyday commuting and long road trips.

Reliability and Common Issues

Reliability is a crucial factor when considering a used vehicle. The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport generally has a good reliability record, but like any car, it has its share of potential issues. Here’s what you should know:

Overall Reliability

Generally, the 2014 Santa Fe Sport is considered a reliable vehicle. However, it’s always wise to check for any recalls or common problems reported by other owners. Resources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and consumer forums can provide valuable insights.

Common Issues

Some of the common issues reported by owners of the 2014 Santa Fe Sport include:

  • Engine Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the engine, such as stalling or knocking noises. Regular maintenance and timely oil changes can help prevent these problems.
  • Electrical Issues: Issues with the electrical system, such as malfunctioning sensors or problems with the infotainment system, have been reported. These issues are typically minor but can be annoying.
  • Brake Problems: Some owners have experienced premature brake wear or noisy brakes. Regular brake inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure safe braking performance.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your 2014 Santa Fe Sport running smoothly, follow these maintenance tips:

  • Regular Oil Changes: Change the oil and filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations (usually every 5,000 to 7,500 miles).
  • Check Fluid Levels: Regularly check and top off all fluid levels, including coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid.
  • Inspect Brakes: Have the brakes inspected regularly for wear and tear. Replace brake pads and rotors as needed.
  • Tire Maintenance: Keep tires properly inflated and rotated. Replace tires when they are worn out.
  • Scheduled Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for services such as spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement, and filter changes.

Is the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport a Good Buy?

So, is the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport a good buy? Overall, it offers a compelling package with its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and available features. If you're looking for a reliable and versatile compact SUV, it’s definitely worth considering.

Pros:

  • Comfortable Ride: The suspension is tuned to provide a smooth and comfortable ride on various road surfaces.
  • Spacious Interior: The cabin offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
  • Available Features: The Santa Fe Sport comes with a range of features, including leather upholstery, heated seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
  • Engine Options: The two engine choices provide a balance of power and fuel efficiency.

Cons:

  • Potential Reliability Issues: Some owners have reported engine and electrical problems.
  • Fuel Economy: While decent, the fuel economy is not class-leading.

Final Verdict

The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport is a solid choice for anyone in the market for a used compact SUV. Its blend of comfort, features, and practicality make it a standout option in its class. Just be sure to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase to ensure there are no hidden issues. Happy car hunting!