2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport: A Comprehensive Buyer's Guide

Are you in the market for a reliable and stylish used crossover SUV that offers a blend of comfort, features, and practicality? The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport might just be the vehicle you're looking for. This popular five-passenger SUV from Hyundai made a significant splash when it debuted, and it continues to be a strong contender in the used car market. But with so many options out there, how do you know if the 2014 Santa Fe Sport is the right fit for your needs?

This comprehensive guide will dive deep into everything you need to know about the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, from its performance and features to its safety ratings and common considerations for used car buyers. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of what this vehicle offers, helping you make an informed decision.

Why the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Still Stands Out

The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport carved out a niche for itself by offering a compelling package that balanced style, space, and value. It's known for its sharply styled exterior and a cabin that feels pleasantly roomy and quiet, even at highway speeds. Many owners praise its blend of practicality, a touch of luxury, and enjoyable driving dynamics.

Hyundai aimed to challenge convention with this model, moving more features from the optional list to standard, which means even base models come well-equipped. This approach makes the 2014 Santa Fe Sport an attractive option for those seeking a feature-rich vehicle without breaking the bank.

Performance & Engine Options: Power for Every Driver

The 2014 Santa Fe Sport offers two distinct four-cylinder engine choices, both paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission.

The Standard 2.4-Liter Engine

The base engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that delivers 190 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. This engine provides adequate power for daily commuting and family duties, offering a balanced performance for most drivers.

• Fuel Economy (2.4L FWD): An EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined (20 city/27 highway).
• Fuel Economy (2.4L AWD): Drops slightly to 21 mpg combined (19 city/25 highway).

The Turbocharged 2.0T Engine

For those desiring more spirited acceleration, the 2.0T model comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. This powerhouse boosts output significantly to 264 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. This turbocharged option provides a noticeable increase in performance, making highway merging and passing a breeze.

• Fuel Economy (2.0T FWD): 22 mpg combined (19 city/27 highway).
• Fuel Economy (2.0T AWD): 21 mpg combined (18 city/24 highway).

Both engines are capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds, making the Santa Fe Sport versatile for light towing needs.

Interior Comfort & Technology: A Refined Experience

Step inside the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, and you'll find one of the nicer cabins in its class. Hyundai focused on outstanding materials quality, thoughtful placement of controls, and overall spaciousness. The cockpit is designed with elegant simplicity, featuring well-organized and legible switchgear.

Key interior features that contribute to a comfortable and convenient ride include:

• Spacious Seating: Comfortable front seats with ample adjustments, and a roomy back seat.
• Infotainment: Standard features include a USB/iPod port and Bluetooth connectivity. Many models come with a 4.3-inch color touchscreen with a rearview camera, while higher trims offer an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and an available 10-speaker Infinity audio system.
• Comfort Amenities: Available features like heated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel elevate the driving experience. Some models even offer a panoramic sunroof for an open, airy feel.
• BlueLink Telematics System: Hyundai's proprietary telematics system provides added convenience and security features.

Safety First: Protecting You and Your Passengers

Safety is a paramount concern for any vehicle, and the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport doesn't disappoint. It earned a 5-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

Standard safety features across all models include:

• Seven airbags, including a driver knee airbag and side curtain airbags with rollover sensors.
• 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control System (TCS).
• Hillstart Assist Control and Downhill Brake Control.
• Integrated Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) for optimal handling in challenging conditions.

For enhanced safety, available features on higher trims or as options include:

• Blind Spot Detection (BSD) system, which uses radar sensors to monitor blind spots and alert the driver with visual and audible cues.
• Rearview camera.
• Rear parking assistance system.

Important Considerations for Used 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Buyers

While the 2014 Santa Fe Sport offers many positives, it's crucial to be aware of potential issues reported by some owners, especially when buying used. This transparency is key to making an informed decision.

Common Reported Problems & Recalls

Some owners have reported concerns, particularly regarding the engine and other components. It's important to note that these issues do not affect all vehicles, but they are worth investigating.

• Engine Issues: Some 2014 Santa Fe Sport models have been part of recalls related to engine manufacturing errors that could lead to premature bearing wear, engine stalling, or even engine failure. There have also been reports of oil consumption and metal filings in the oil pan.
• Transmission Stuttering: A reported issue where the transmission might shudder when shifting from second to third gear, particularly when the vehicle is cold.
• Paint Quality: Some owners have experienced issues with paint peeling, particularly on the hood.
• Crankshaft Position Sensor: A faulty crankshaft position sensor has been cited as a cause for engine stalling or the vehicle suddenly losing power at highway speeds.
• Speaker Issues: Some models, particularly those with navigation units, have reported issues with no sound coming from the speakers, which often requires a software reset.
• Recalls: Be sure to check for any open recalls on the specific VIN of any 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport you are considering. Notable recalls include those for the ABS module (potential brake fluid leak and electrical short), secondary hood latch corrosion, and high-pressure fuel pipe damage.

Driving Dynamics

While generally praised for its handling, some reviews note that the steering can feel artificial and may require frequent small corrections on the highway. Rear visibility can also be poor due to thick rear roof pillars, making a rearview camera a highly recommended feature.

Our Recommendation: When considering a used 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, it is highly advisable to:

1. Obtain a Vehicle History Report (e.g., CarFax or AutoCheck): This can reveal past accidents, service history, and recall completion.
2. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): Have a trusted, independent mechanic inspect the vehicle thoroughly, especially focusing on the engine, transmission, and any signs of paint issues.
3. Check for Open Recalls: Verify that all applicable recalls have been addressed for the specific vehicle you are interested in.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport a reliable used car?

A1: Reliability reviews for the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport are mixed. While some owners report excellent long-term reliability with minimal issues, others have experienced significant problems, particularly with the engine, transmission, and paint. It's crucial to review the vehicle's maintenance history and have a pre-purchase inspection performed.

Q2: What are the main differences between the 2.4L and 2.0T engines in the 2014 Santa Fe Sport?

A2: The 2.4L engine is a naturally aspirated (non-turbo) four-cylinder producing 190 horsepower, offering decent fuel economy and adequate power for most daily driving. The 2.0T engine is a turbocharged four-cylinder that significantly boosts power to 264 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque, providing much stronger acceleration with only a slight decrease in fuel economy.

Q3: Does the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport have all-wheel drive (AWD)?

A3: Yes, all-wheel drive (AWD) was an optional feature on both the 2.4L and 2.0T engine configurations for the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard.

Q4: What is the towing capacity of the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport?

A4: The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, when properly equipped, can tow up to 3,500 pounds with both the 2.4-liter and 2.0-liter turbocharged engine options.

Conclusion: Is the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Right for You?

The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport presents a compelling package for used car buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and well-equipped compact SUV. Its attractive design, spacious interior, and array of features — from advanced safety systems to modern infotainment options — make it a strong contender in its class.

However, like any used vehicle, it comes with its own set of considerations, particularly regarding documented engine and transmission issues for some units. By being diligent with vehicle history checks and pre-purchase inspections, you can significantly mitigate potential risks and find a model that serves you well.

If you're looking for a crossover that offers a premium feel without a premium price tag, and you're prepared to do your due diligence, the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport could be an excellent choice for your next vehicle.

What's your experience with the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!