The 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport AWD 2.0T is Downright Brilliant [First Impression]

2015 hyundai santa fe crossover turbo sport

Hyundai built the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport AWD 2.0T to be the smaller, sportier cousin of its three row Santa Fe which has a 3.9-inch longer wheelbase. They succeeded. Despite looking nearly identical, the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport AWD 2.0T has a much sleeker overall look and, despite having the potential to weigh in at two tons, it looks much lighter on its feet than its bigger brother.

The 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport AWD 2.0T has a 264 horsepower, 2-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that makes 269 lbs-feet of torque. It handles better than some “sport” crossovers costing nearly twice as much. Stopping power is excellent and the overall feel (which is synthetically enhanced) is impressive. In fact, the driving dynamics feel a bit like the older, turbocharged Acura RDX.

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Hyundai’s all-wheel drive (AWD) system is pretty impressive. It works automatically (it was supremely good in a rain/hail/slush storm) and you can lock the center diff for a 50/50 torque split to the front and rear wheels at low speeds. It’s good for getting out of deep snow or mud. It was never needed during the storm; however, the regular AWD system and stability controls system worked wonders during a bevy of emergency maneuvers.

Hyundai made sure the interior of the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport AWD 2.0T was top notch too.

The interior has available front and rear seat heating along with front seat cooling. There are some high end brands that still do not offer rear heated seats. The 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport AWD 2.0T’s interior is modern with a hint of Ford’s design motif inside. It’s easy to get used to the placement of (most of) the controls and the infotainment system is top-notch.

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I highly recommend the massive panoramic sunroof too. Kids love it and the interior looks even better when the large shade is retracted. It was especially fun when the little ones “ooed” and “awed” at a snow storm we drove through. Who needs in-car televisions?

There are a few issues. With an as-tested price dangerously close to $40,000 – it’s too pricy. Vehicle from Honda, Toyota and Nissan have product that compete for much less. Getting the turbo, leather and sunroof are costly upgrades.

… but the turbo is the engine you want.

The other issue is the gas mileage. I’ve averaged 20 mpg and, according to the EPA ratings, the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport AWD 2.0T a combined rating of 22 mpg. That engine is a bit thirsty and you only have 17.4 gallons available between pit-stops.

… but the turbo is the engine you want.

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It’s curious to see what Hyundai will do to differentiate the upcoming “all-new” Hyundai Tucson from the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport AWD 2.0T. I mean, they will be about the same size and compete for the same customer – right? It will be interesting to see.

It’s easy to see why so many reviewers like this 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport AWD 2.0T. It’s one of the few crossovers that’s fun to drive. It’s utilitarian, very comfortable and its AWD system works great.

Check out this video of the Santa Fe off-road.

Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism - Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum.  His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.
Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism – Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum. His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.