Getting more for your money is always appealing when you're shopping for a used SUV. The Hyundai Santa Fe has changed considerably over its three most recent generations, so choosing the right one involves more than finding the newest model that fits your budget. Learn what to expect in a used Santa Fe below!
Key Takeaways:
- Third-generation Santa Fe models can fall well below $20,000.
- The 2019-2023 generation pairs newer tech and safety features with prices that have dropped considerably.
- Buyers interested in three rows, a hybrid, and Hyundai's latest technology will find all three in the newest Santa Fe.
Where Should Used Santa Fe Shoppers Start?
The fourth generation, sold from 2019 - 2023, introduced Hyundai's more modern styling and interior design while adding tech and safety features that still feel current. After its 2021 refresh, Hyundai updated the exterior and touchscreen, increased engine output, introduced a hybrid powertrain, and added the upscale Calligraphy trim. A plug-in hybrid followed for 2022, while the XRT joined the lineup with more rugged-looking exterior equipment.
Is the Third Generation Santa Fe Worth the Lower Price?
The 2013 - 2018 generation can be considerably less expensive, but there's an important distinction to understand. Hyundai sold two related vehicles during this period: the smaller two-row Santa Fe Sport and the larger three-row Santa Fe.
The Santa Fe (the model we focus on today) used a 290-horsepower 3.3-liter V6 that paired with a six-speed automatic and offered front- or all-wheel drive.
Age has made these models affordable. CarGurus reports that -year-old examples sell for $8,000 to $12,000, while later third-generation models generally stay below $20,000. The newest, lowest-mileage examples can reach approximately $22,000.
Why Is the Fourth Generation Santa Fe Such a Big Change?
For 2019, the Santa Fe returned to a two-row layout, and Hyundai eliminated the separate Santa Fe Sport name. The previous three-row model briefly continued as the Santa Fe XL before the Palisade replaced it.
Early fourth-generation Santa Fe models used a 185 hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder; Limited and Ultimate trims offered a 235-hp turbocharged 2.0. Hyundai changed things up for 2021, boosting the turbo engine to 281 ponies and 311 lb-ft.
Inside, Hyundai made this gen with nicer materials and more supportive seats than its predecessor, along with a seven- or eight-inch touchscreen. By 2023, the SEL had a 10.3-inch touchscreen, leather-wrapped steering wheel, navigation-linked adaptive cruise control, and rear window shades.
Used prices cover a fairly broad range. Older, higher-mileage fourth-generation examples run from around $16,000 to $25,000, while newer models with lower mileage can reach $25,000 to $35,000.
What Do You Get With the Newest Santa Fe?
Hyundai changed direction again for 2024. The fifth-gen Santa Fe adopted a much boxier exterior. The interior added a wide curved display, a more upright dash, and a mixture of physical controls and digital technology. Gas models use a 277-hp turbocharged four-cylinder producing 311 lb-ft.
When it comes to Hyundai Santa Fe fuel economy, the turbo hybrid earns an EPA-estimated 34 mpg combined, compared with 24 mpg for the regular version. Front-wheel drive is standard on most trims, with AWD available; the XRT includes AWD as standard equipment.
Hyundai made another mechanical change for 2026 by replacing the eight-speed dual-clutch with a conventional eight-speed automatic. Additional driver-assistance features also became standard across the lineup, while the XRT gained Mud, Snow, and Sand terrain settings.
How Much Should You Expect to Spend on a Santa Fe?
These three generations span a wide price range. A one-year-old 2025 Santa Fe is about $33,500, compared with around $25,100 for a 2023 and $20,300 for a 2021.
The newest generation hasn't had much time to depreciate. Used fifth-generation examples average around $32,000 to $34,400, putting them relatively close to new-car pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are newer Hyundai Santa Fe models generally the better choice?
Hyundai has made significant improvements with each Santa Fe generation, so buying the newest model your budget allows can give you access to more tech, better safety equipment, and updated powertrains.
Are there any Santa Fe model years you should approach carefully?
Pay particular attention to 2013-2019 Santa Fe Sport models equipped with the 2.4-liter engine. These engines experienced widespread failures.
What does a used Santa Fe cost?
A 2025 model averages around $33,500, while a 2023 trim starts at about $25,100. 2021 model drops to roughly $20,300.
Ready to Shop for a Used Hyundai Santa Fe?
A used Santa Fe can be a practical way to get plenty of SUV for your money. Take your time comparing what's available, and don't be afraid to pass on one that doesn't have the history or condition you're looking for. We're happy to show you what we have in stock at any of our Alan Jay Automotive Group dealerships. It's the Alan Jay Way!