2024 Hyundai Santa Fe: Boxy Design and Third-Row Space

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe represents one of the most dramatic visual transformations in the recent automotive market. Moving away from the curvy, tapered look of its predecessors, Hyundai has pivoted to a rugged, rectilinear design that maximizes interior volume. If you are looking for a midsize SUV that prioritizes practical space and bold styling, the new Santa Fe demands your attention.

A Radical Departure in Styling

The most immediate talking point of the 2024 Santa Fe is its shape. Hyundai calls this design theme “Open for More,” but most observers will notice the undeniable influence of rugged icons like the Land Rover Defender or the Ford Flex. The vehicle is defined by sharp corners, a flat roofline, and a vertical rear end.

This boxy aesthetic is not just for show. It serves a functional purpose by pushing the interior cabin space to the absolute edges of the vehicle’s footprint. Key exterior design elements include:

  • H-Shaped Lighting: Both the front headlights and rear taillights feature a distinct “H” motif. This links the lighting signature directly to the Hyundai badge.
  • Aerodynamics: Despite looking like a brick, the Santa Fe manages a drag coefficient of 0.29. Active air shutters in the front bumper help achieve this efficiency.
  • Wheelbase Extension: The wheelbase has grown to 110.8 inches, which is nearly two inches longer than the 2023 model. This directly translates to more room between the wheels for passengers.

Evaluating the Interior Cargo Room

The previous generation Santa Fe was primarily a two-row SUV, with a third row serving as an afterthought in certain markets. For 2024, the Santa Fe is strictly a three-row vehicle. The shift to a boxy design has paid massive dividends for cargo capacity and usability.

The “Terrace” Tailgate

Hyundai engineered the tailgate strut to pivot further forward, creating an exceptionally wide opening. When the liftgate is raised, it creates a sheltered “terrace” space. The opening is nearly 90 degrees vertical, allowing you to slide in bulky items like furniture or camping gear without having to angle them awkwardly to clear the roof pillar.

Cargo Volume Specs

The numbers support the visual impression of size. Because the roof does not slope down at the back, you can stack cargo higher near the tailgate.

  • Behind the 3rd Row: You get approximately 14.6 cubic feet of storage. This is enough for a few grocery bags or two carry-on suitcases.
  • Behind the 2nd Row: Folding the third row flat opens up roughly 40.5 cubic feet of space.
  • Maximum Capacity: With both rear rows folded flat, the Santa Fe offers 79.6 cubic feet of cargo room. This places it competitively against larger rivals like the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot.

Third-Row Space and Comfort

In the midsize SUV segment, the third row is often a penalty box reserved only for small children. The 2024 Santa Fe attempts to fix this through its squared-off architecture.

Because the roofline remains flat all the way to the spoiler, headroom in the third row is class-leading at 37.7 inches. You do not have to hunch over to sit in the back. Legroom in the third row is approximately 30 inches. While this might still be tight for a six-foot adult on a cross-country road trip, it is genuinely usable for teenagers or adults on shorter drives.

Accessing the third row is also easier. The second-row captain’s chairs (available on higher trims like the Calligraphy) or bench seat can tilt and slide forward with the push of a single button.

Performance and Trim Levels

Hyundai has simplified the powertrain options for the new generation. The base naturally aspirated engine is gone. The standard engine is now a powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.

  • Engine Specs: 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.
  • Transmission: 8-speed wet dual-clutch automatic.
  • Towing: When properly equipped, the Santa Fe can tow up to 4,500 pounds (specifically in the XRT trim).

For those prioritizing fuel economy, a 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrain is also available, pairing a gas engine with an electric motor for a combined output of roughly 231 horsepower.

Notable Trims

  • XRT: This is the “adventure” trim. It adds 1.5 inches of lift for better ground clearance, sits on 30-inch all-terrain tires, and features dark chrome accents.
  • Calligraphy: The top-tier luxury trim includes Nappa leather seating, a dual wireless charging pad for two phones, and a UV-C sterilization tray in the glove box to sanitize small items.

Technology and Driver Assistance

The interior dashboard mirrors the exterior’s horizontal lines. A massive Panoramic Curved Display connects a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen into a single floating unit.

Hyundai has also retained physical knobs for volume and climate control, addressing a common complaint about modern touch-sensitive interfaces. Connectivity is standard, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included across all trim levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the 2024 Santa Fe have a spare tire? Yes, the 2024 Santa Fe includes a spare tire located underneath the rear of the vehicle, which helps maximize interior cargo storage.

Is the 2024 Santa Fe bigger than the Palisade? No. While the Santa Fe has grown, the Hyundai Palisade remains the larger vehicle in the lineup, offering more overall length and width.

What is the fuel economy of the 2024 Santa Fe? The 2.5L Turbo with All-Wheel Drive is rated at approximately 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The Hybrid model offers significantly better efficiency, generally estimated in the mid-30s mpg range for combined driving.

Can the third row fold completely flat? Yes, the third-row seats fold completely flat into the floor. This creates a level cargo deck that is ideal for loading long items or for car camping.