Introduction:
The new Hyundai Santa Fe has undergone a revolutionary redesign, featuring a bold and controversial design that sets it apart from its competitors in the family hauler segment. One key element of this redesign is the boxier shape of the Santa Fe, which lends itself to practicality, particularly in terms of luggage storage. In this article, we will explore the Santa Fe’s cargo space compared to its larger counterpart, the Palisade, and other three-row vehicles like the Kia Sorento.
Boxier Design, Better Storage
The new Santa Fe showcases a boxier design compared to its competitors, such as the Sorento and Palisade, which allows for more practical space in the cargo area. Despite having a smaller overall size, the Santa Fe’s design provides ample room for passengers and luggage alike. The third row in the Santa Fe offers comfortable seating for adults and has a slight advantage in cargo space over the Sorento, thanks to its boxier shape.
Luggage Test Results
During luggage tests with the Santa Fe, it was found that the vehicle could comfortably accommodate two midsize roller suitcases, two black roll-aboard suitcases, and one smaller green roll-aboard, along with an additional fancy overnight bag. With the third row set at a comfortable angle, the Santa Fe could hold a commendable amount of luggage, outperforming the Sorento but falling short of the Palisade in terms of cargo capacity.
Practical Reclining Third Row
The Santa Fe’s reclining third row provides additional flexibility for storing luggage, allowing for various configurations based on passenger needs. With the third row set at a more upright, tolerable angle, the Santa Fe could accommodate larger items like medium roller bags and fancy overnight bags, showcasing its versatility in cargo management.
Exterior Cargo Solutions
In addition to its interior cargo space, the Santa Fe XRT comes equipped with raised roof rails and unique box doors on each side, making it easier to mount a cargo box or access the roof for loading bulky items. These exterior cargo solutions enhance the Santa Fe’s practicality and expand its cargo capacity for those occasions when additional storage space is needed.
Conclusion: Embracing Boxiness for Practicality
Despite its smaller size compared to larger three-row vehicles, the Hyundai Santa Fe’s boxy design proves to be a practical advantage when it comes to luggage storage and overall cargo capacity. With its innovative features, including a reclining third row and exterior cargo solutions, the Santa Fe offers a versatile and efficient solution for family hauling needs. Embracing the boxiness of the Santa Fe ultimately enhances its functionality and sets it apart in the competitive crossover SUV market.