2019 Hyundai Santa Fe XL

Pros: Spacious, comfortable interior; pleasant road manners; satisfying acceleration

Cons: So-so fuel economy; cramped 3rd-row seat

CG Says: Hyundai tinkered with the model names of its two midsize crossover SUVs for 2019. Formerly, the 2-row, 5-passnger version was the Santa Fe Sport and the 3-row, 7-passenger model was simply Santa Fe. For 2019, the 2-row model is redesigned and drops the “Sport” to become just Santa Fe (see separate report). The 3-row version is now Santa Fe XL, but is scheduled to be replaced by a redesigned model badged Palisade for 2020. The subject of this review is the 3-row Santa Fe XL, which other than its new “XL” suffix, is essentially unchanged. The sole powertrain is a 290-hp 3.3-liter V6 paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. All trim levels offer a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Available features include autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, blind-spot alert, cross-traffic alert, panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, and adaptive cruise control. Good power from V6 engine; agreeable ride quality; and a comfortable, practical interior are some of the highlights of the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe XL. We also like how refined this crossover feels and how quiet it is on the road. However, pricing is a bit on the steep side for the top trim level. Still, if you’re looking at crossovers or SUVs, be sure to drive the Santa Fe XL.