Is the NEW 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe SE the BEST midsize SUV for under $30k?

The Santa Fe receives some bug changes for 2021 from Hyundai. The SE trim is the base starting point on Hyundai's original SUV. On the outside you find a new grill, front fascia, headlights and taillights. On the inside there is new technology and an updated center console. Under the hood is a changed up 2.5L inline-4 that produces 191HP & is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Is the NEW 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe SE the BEST midsize SUV for under $30k?
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[@dforrest4503]

I really appreciate you testing out midline and base models. So much new stuff standard on today’s models I don’t think the top end models are as good a value.

[@poppopp9893]

One day Joe's gonna bring a box of Twinkies and put it to the test

[@RaitisRides]

Stay tuned......that day may be tomorrow! LOL

[@seth_ap148]

Pleaseeee do it Joe

[@JustaPersonTryinToHuman365]

I think SavageGeese just did an Homage to Joe in their latest video They threw cold cut meats in the door panel cuz Joe is always mentioning subway, and they dumped Twinkies in the center console, they might be secret fans of Raitis Rides

[@7Kwadwo]

Yeah someday we will have both cheerios and twinkies test. May the best vehicle win

[@RaitisRides]

@@JustaPersonTryinToHuman365 I heard about that! I think you are right!

[@arnoldbuckner6351]

You are on “THROTTLE” when you say”Thank You Hyundai “NO CVT” !”

[@RaitisRides]

Tell me about it!

[@mir3264]

For my next car shopping, I will be walking with a box of Twinkies into the dealership.

[@RaitisRides]

Smart move!

[@ImGdiddy]

Joe has got to be a super salesman. Every time I watch one of his videos, I feel like I’m on a car lot listening to a fast talking sales guy. He has a real way with words to keep you interested and now I want to go and check one of these out!

[@RichardSmith-od8it]

Thanks for showing the base model I really like the no bling front end. And the camera work was excellent good job

[@raymondku7811]

Have been waiting for this so long!!! THANK YOU JOE!

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that I can bring it to you Raymond.

[@victordasilva5255]

Fun fact. CU means ass in Portuguese

[@sushiblox5201]

Joe you have been KILLING it with the uploads man! Thank you for your hard work!!!!

[@allenb4823]

yes!

[@lowKut]

Awesome Review!! We just bought a 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe about two hours ago. This thing is truly awesome.

[@omarcortes5754]

"Apples to apples, oranges to oranges, twinkies to twinkies". Joe Raiti 2020.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Omar! I appreciate you letting me share the cars and the laughs with you!

[@coy9898]

Thanks Lori! You and Joe make great video’s, keep it up and stay safe!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Corey for showing Lori some love. She has been working very hard. We really appreciate your support!

[@fitztastico]

One tip for anyone with a 2019+ SF: Since the tire jack is so rarely needed, I pulled out the styrofoam piece it's stored in and used a knife to cut just a bit of foam off the length. This allowed me to easily fit it into one of the farther back underfloor storage compartments and freed up the other side of the more convenient underfloor storage which also allows you to put long items in there like a large umbrella

[@RaitisRides]

That is a great idea! Thanks for sharing that!

[@skrekxy2352]

Raiti mad respect, you post everyday even during these times!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for saying that! I want to bring you guys the best!

[@skrekxy2352]

@@RaitisRides youre videos sure are the best and filled with jokes!!

[@RaitisRides]

@@skrekxy2352 I appreciate you letting me share some laughs with you!

[@iantc1622]

Thanks for the excellent review. In future on road driving would also comment on the efficiency of the a/c system. Thanks.

[@LeadfootLou]

Excellent review!!👍 The camera 🎥 📷 work is outstanding!!

[@RaitisRides]

Lori is so amazing!

[@MsAdriano7777]

LOVE YOUR REVIEWS ITS HELP ME FINALLY DECIDE WHICH VEHICLE TO GET FOR WORK/MOM CAR. JUST GOT THIS Santa Fe coming from a 2010 ford transit connect cargo van. This is luxury for me lol Thanks so much.

[@mmkdd]

Way to go Joe! 👍. Excellent review as always...😉

[@richki.24]

Nice looking ride ..... Diggin' it ...

[@roninfredo6844]

I just got a 2019 Santa Fe SE. I love it so far. I'm gonna keep it and wait to get all the fancy tech later.

[@ivandoneshefsky4762]

Very educational Joe. Can honestly say you’re the most entertaining and educational car reviewer in the business! What reviewer tells you about Yoo-hoo, Rubick’s Cube, Twinkies and more Twinkies, oh and the Santa Fe! Totally enjoyed the content. Hyundai is going to sell a lot of these vehicles. Keep-up the good work.

[@christopherorourke2775]

I just bought one yesterday, and boy am I glad to know how many hotdogs I can fit in my center console!

[@RaitisRides]

Congrats man!

[@mattagui5718]

Nice intro my broda I enjoyed this video a lot

[@RaitisRides]

That really means a lot my friend!

[@romanseano]

Thank you for giving us two SF reviews (so far) - Waiting with baited breath for Calligraphy vid!

[@RaitisRides]

Hey Roman! You are so very welcome. Those trims are on the way. Stay tuned.

[@romanseano]

@@RaitisRides BTW, also concerned about that drive select dial. Should not be that flimsy on any trim level... but if it's like that on a Ltd or Calligraphy, at $40K it's kind of offensive - and that's coming from a SF Calligraphy prospective buyer here.

[@ianm1443]

Thank you for testing out base model

[@yes8032]

Superb video we all appreciate the fact you are able to upload for us every day

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you George! I am so glad that I can bring the reviews to you!

[@bearlogangaming]

@@RaitisRides nice video mate also why is ford stoping the ford Mustang Shelby GT350 I do love them also the ford Mustang Shelby GT 500 is a very crazy god from hell

[@RaitisRides]

@@bearlogangaming Thanks Logan. It's because of the GT500 and now the return of the Mach 1.

[@bearlogangaming]

@@RaitisRides oh okay it's quite sad I was thinking to make my own ford Mustang Shelby GT 350 but with a normal ford Mustang GT and putting a 5.2l but it will be hard work to do it

[@jeancastrojoseph7124]

I luv the price part on every videos "Joe how much is it?!" 😁

[@RaitisRides]

Awesome my friend!

[@joskjj3625]

Love your reviews joe keep it up

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for having my back!

[@joskjj3625]

@@RaitisRides no problem

[@SnappyDee2O4F]

Great job Joe.👍

[@richardrybarczyk5522]

I have to hand it to Hyundai and KIA, they’ve really stepped up and are designing some great vehicles. The Palisade and Telluride have led this resurgence in the market. Saw a Sante Fe in the showroom and was impressed back then. Great job!

[@LS1007]

I like the Santa Fe in the higher trim level. The rear turn signal placement had to be an afterthought. 😩 Thanks for sharing it Joe. I’ll be watching later tonight.🤞🏻 👍🏻👍🏻🇺🇸

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Larry! We will be looking for you!

[@mclarenspeedtail8988]

Finally, a base model!

[@RaitisRides]

I love bringing it to you!

[@ofcbob6391]

base model with LED headlights and forward collision and perhaps(anyone know?) rear cross traffic alert and blind spot monitoring?

[@OlJackBurton]

@@ofcbob6391 And 18 inch alloy wheels, power amenities (windows/doors/mirrors) and standard safety suite including adaptive cruise (cross traffic and blind spot monitoring are not standard). Also 8 inch infotainment display, digital mini cluster on dash, rear AC vents and multiple USB and power ports. Base doesn't mean bare bones with mainstream Hyundai models...

[@A4allroads]

Not bad for the price. Cool design and functionality. Thanks joe!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Mitch for letting me bring it to you!

[@rekt_n_line]

I appreciate your videos Joe, because while I like seeing all the cool stuff in the top trims, you also cover the models common folk like myself are most likely to purchase. I love Hyundais and they're definitely king of value IMO. So many standard features you hardly have a reason to step up a trim. Also, for the rear blinkers being on the bumper. In the US blinkers aren't allowed to be placed on a moving panel like the hatch, and I think also have to be a certain size to be seen at a distance. So with the tail light design I think Hyundai had no choice but to put them on the bumper.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for that great info! We will always keeping bringing the variety and all trims.

[@moncho33]

Recently subscribed. You and Lori make a great team. Keep those videos coming! 💪🏼

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Ramon for finding us and joining the Raiti's Rides family

[@moncho33]

@@RaitisRides You’re welcome! Quick question, if cargo space was out of the equation, which one do you prefer, the CX-5 Touring or this Santa Fe? I test drove the CX-5 and really liked it, but my experience with Hyundai was very positive with my 2012 Elantra. Also I might be old school, but I think that mid size suvs should have a V6.

[@bovicheth3]

I recommended to my sister and she bought 2020 it's very cool mid size SUV 🔥💓

[@archerxo1]

Finally...a demo of the silver

[@DavidBrowningBYD]

You can have a lot of fun with 8" or less! It makes so much sense to learn you were a teacher--you've let slip signs of depth in previous videos. How would it be to very briefly mention each model's reputation for reliability and maintenance/repair expense?

[@lisaw7633]

I'm digging this vehicle and love the cabin. Most cars are doing that soft touch dash and door panels now. Love the hydraulic hood prop. Mazda I'm going to need you to step it up for 2022. Just hate how low the rear turn signals are. Great video thank you

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you are liking this one. You are so very welcome.

[@thomash6834]

My man! Thank you!

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very welcome Thomas!

[@kp.p.5100]

You gotta do a review of the 2021 Santa Fe calligraphy trim. That’s the one I’m looking for.

[@RaitisRides]

I will as soon as it lands. I think they sent out the lower trims first.

[@DG-bc9xu]

Yes, really excited to get your thoughts and worth of the Calligraphy which is the one im leaning towards

[@mauriceetal1426]

Yeah buddy

[@jyang0431]

It's EXPENSIVE!

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

Two years ago today! Might try to get one.

[@47lorenita]

Joe please do a review on the 2022 hyundai tucson hybrid when it comes out!!! Love your videos!!!😃

[@adama047]

Great entry level SUV. Hyundai keeps up with the Jones's, for sure! Lori is tireless with that camera!

[@RaitisRides]

She is awesome!

[@TheMELTDOWN911]

wow I have NEVER liked a cloth interior UNTIL NOW, that Cloth interior looks AMAZING! Better then Leather or Leatherette as they say....

[@chadmiller5446]

Joe, I had an idea for a cool video I haven't seen amongst car reviewers yet. Think you'd be able to make a video comparing each mainstream brand's autonomous capabilities: like the lane keep assist, lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, etc? I thought it would be cool to see strengths and weaknesses of each brand. I know Hyundai/Kia do excellent in this department as I rented a Santa Fe before, but curious about other brands.

[@RaitisRides]

I will try to get that idea together!

[@bobbyaustralia8509]

A bit of tig wiggle for you. Htrac is fwd during normal operation. It operates just like 4motion’s haldex center differential (waits for slip) That’s how we get good gas mileage for an ‘awd’ vehicle

[@adventuretraveling8957]

Excellent reviews on new cars 🚗 and new cars always feel good 😌 but buddy if you show us little test of real world 🗺 drive like off road test, slipped test etc

[@RaitisRides]

I will remember that for next time.

[@unjaded2]

GV70 FOR ME , THIS IS A VERY NICE BASE VALUE SUV WITH UNEXPECTED INCLUDED OPTIONS. I LOVE THAT CENTER CONSOLE AND THE TOUCH SCREEN ! 10.2 OPTION , SAY IT ANIT SO JOE ! BOLSTERS ! RUBICS CUBE AND A MAGIC 8 BALL .

[@RaitisRides]

I can't wait to see that in person.

[@mattagui5718]

SUV segment gettin bigger and bigger my brodaaa lots of options

[@RaitisRides]

Sooooooo many options.

[@amitjohar9691]

I'm buying 22 Santa Fe SE this week

[@ronaldpowers2564]

I would have loved to experience Mr. Raiti as my school teacher. lol

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Ronald for saying that!

[@grumpyoldphart7325]

I have a Veracruz and generally been happy. Only issue is the door handles have broken repeadetly and in speaking with another Veracruz owner they had the same issues . The other problem has been a quirky starting problem. The car will not allow the key to start the car, either by inserting or the proximity feature.

[@johnnydixs4985]

It competes with the Honda Passport, Nissan Murano, Chevy Blazer and Ford Edge. The Tucson is the one that competes with CrV, RAV4 ETC.

[@RaitisRides]

You are correct!

[@namvet1968]

Which one is superior? Tucson, CR-V or RAV4?

[@langstonreese7077]

Joe! You did a typo i =n the description!, some BUG - BIG changes

[@mariowhyte2816]

Hyundai Santa Fe on throttle tiiiime!!! I love that you bring us all the trims, especially for these updated SUV's Joe!! Thanks a bunch man!!! #RaitisRides #OnThrottle #ToTheDoorPanel #TwinkiesForDays #OnThrottleAgain #CrownVic #OnThrottleAllDayAndAllNight #LoriGotAngles #CameraQueen #Zonkmeister #OnThrottleAllOverThePlace #IfYoureReadyImReady #Hyundai #SantaFe

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Mario! It is cool to see what you get for the money.

[@mariowhyte2816]

@@RaitisRides absolutely!!! And Hyundai out here packing their base models with stuff luxury cars don't have at any price point!!!

[@RaitisRides]

@@mariowhyte2816 So true!

[@morrisf3957]

Amazing job on the interior.looks similar to the palisade sort of.hyundai is constantly refreshing there cars more than anyone.smart.

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very right!

[@genebooher7402]

plz do the kia sorento also to compare it to love the style of it also thxs

[@skinnywurst661]

Nice review. Bad camera placement when driving. I would like to see at least partially dashboard and you when driving and talking about the vehicle. Happy Halloween 2021. Let's keep America great!👽🇺🇲👽

[@funkyfurballs1078]

well, Mr. Raiti... I like it!

[@allenb4823]

Great review - as always a fabulous and entertaining show....kudos to you and especially Lori! You need to use some actual Twinkies in your future videos! lol Some serious zonks in my view - low rear turn signals! / push button shifting and the drive mode knob would be dangerous with my crazy dog! / The side view just doesn't appeal to me at all / and the front view is just so - so. The new much larger 2022 Tucson has a polarizing exterior, but seems a lot more modern and will take away a lot of sales from this model. In summary, this is a great choice for a lot of folks that need some extra space in an entry level SUV. Hyundai Dealers will discount this for sure once it comes out. These are known as very reliable but not very refined. Resale won't be as good as a CRV or a RAV4, but you can get more for less if you plan to hold on to it. To me, if you can get by with a little less space, the Mazda CX-5 is a lot better choice. That is what is in my future! If you have kids, then this is a better choice. Hyundai also comes with 3 years maintenance. Can't wait for the top trim review! You Rock!

[@RaitisRides]

Hey Allen! Thanks for your great detailed comment! I really appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.

[@TonyTony.321]

7:34 Hi Mrs. Raiti! 😊

[@RaitisRides]

Good eyes Tony!

[@sarojshrestha6464]

Hey joe...does it come with a spare tire?

[@victordasilva5255]

That’s the best thing I’ve seen since I’ve looked in the mirror this morning ...😎

[@RaitisRides]

LOL

[@aydengreen4414]

Great review! I didn’t know u we’re a teacher before 😂 , what subject ??

[@theadventuresofgibby7823]

The Base Model that isn't just any Base Model. Is there still that under storage further up the back end like the '19 and '20 models?

[@tuxedoblackcat1680]

On top of the Engine says GDI, and that's like the Motor letters on top of the engine of my dad's car the 2012 Hyundai Sonata.

[@RaitisRides]

It's direct injected.

[@mohammedalismail1922]

Which one is better, the santa fe 2021 or mazda cx9 2021 ?

[@hunn89]

Joe this was a good revue. I'm ready to pull the trigger but I didnt see anywhere the wife could store a can of chocolate katydids. Might be a deal breaker. ;-D

[@motordown7664]

Thank God no CVT on this Hyundai model. Liking the headlights. Nice...hood struts too. Zonk single exhaust. Pricing is on par with the CX5 so I would give Mazda a look.

[@RaitisRides]

If you need interior space though you will get more with the Santa Fe.

[@moncho33]

Test drove the CX-5 Touring, really liked it. Will try to test drive the Santa Fe. My experience with Hyundai has been good. 2012 Elantra and 2016 Tucson. My main concern is the 4 cyl engine on the mid-size Santa Fe.

[@TrafficMan7]

Looks like Hyundai is keeping their CVT transmissions in their smaller vehicles so far. I hope that's a smart move.

[@RaitisRides]

We will see how that pans out.

[@OlJackBurton]

@Brian Lee Hyundai does have a very good CVT that convincingly mimics a traditional automatic...

[@semiauto3148]

I can tell ya from my wife owning one of these. They have way more room than the cr-v or the rav 4 Plus they ride better and are quieter! And best of all are cheaper….it’s like a win win win. Now they probably don’t hold value like Toyota and Honda. But oh well. I really like it for what it is

[@xeroxitemshop1968]

I love the joke that you say you can hide some sneakers or a stash of candy

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for taking the time to say that! I am so glad that I can share it with you!

[@andresgutierrez6263]

Fire

[@RaitisRides]

@@andresgutierrez6263 I appreciate your support!

[@josephaustin9037]

Hi raitis rides I love your cars

[@carboy8116]

Haha

[@tpolerex7282]

Even though it looks quite similar to the previous generation I wouldn’t really call it a refresh as it is on an entirely new platform with a couple of new engines and transmissions available in the mix.

[@RaitisRides]

It's a refresh.

[@dgrGR61]

No one ever tells us how long the rear cargo area is with the seats down. Very important for SUV campers.

[@upperechelon25]

I can lay down and sleep in it with the seats down, I’m 6’1

[@Emmett2002]

I have no doubt you were every kid’s favorite teacher in your school.

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for saying that Emmett! That really means a lot!

[@OlJackBurton]

I wondered why he often gave a little historical lesson in the beginning of many videos. Now it makes sense...

[@pigybak]

options galore!

[@RaitisRides]

This is true.

[@saulardiles5384]

From Chile. I would need one.

[@poppopp9893]

If they're not happy with 8 in I'm in a lot more trouble than I thought

[@RaitisRides]

LOL! You are hilarious!

[@slowgoat6089]

me to man, me to. =(

[@RaitisRides]

@@slowgoat6089 😳😂

[@mauriceetal1426]

I'm just glad Joe doesn't fling out the old measuring tape

[@SergioSanchez-nl4yk]

I just bought this car!! I have the exact same car and key, but I have a question... does it has remote start? I can’t figure it out!

[@CalisRemedy]

Can you please review a Lexus GS-F 10th year anniversary

[@karsaorlong4391]

Personally I don't like the usb near the cup holder, is it waterproof or are you going to short it with a spill.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you!

[@vangp9214]

Hi Joe, ty for another great video. I am looking for mid-sized 2021 and get confused between 2021 Passat, accord, k5. Any suggestion?

[@RaitisRides]

I would go Accord.

[@vangp9214]

@@RaitisRides Thank you :-)

[@RaitisRides]

@@vangp9214 You are so very welcome.

[@Danielle-tx2es]

does it park as the tucson?

[@joseruiz8850]

Where is the Nissan 2021 or the Sentra 2021 ?? I need to see it. I’m waiting on it.

[@bovicheth3]

why no have start stop engine button 😥

[@darringriffin6625]

Will we get the calligraphy in the USA?

[@tonytreetop]

J ~ great SUV for a mom running errands, dropping the kids off at school, going to the grocery store, swinging by to hook up with her guy on the side (Mike) at the motel for a quickter, then back to the house in time to toss something in the microwave for her husband. lol. can't wait for the SE model with 488 HP. - tony

[@RaitisRides]

You freaking crack me up Tony!

[@regmatt]

Not bad for the price , you gonna see lot at airport rental places as when this pandemic is over as i remember those days before santa fe were in high demand

[@RaitisRides]

This is so very true.

[@kopper7509]

It looks like the driver seat is manual with power lumbar? I can’t find anywhere if that’s the case but it looks like it in this video.

[@trockterry6]

Yes, it does have power lumbar.

[@trdrav4]

These are tempting to lease...3 years free maintenance, I would have really considered a 2020 had I not bought my Elantra Sport.

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very right!

[@trdrav4]

@@RaitisRides www.carsdirect.com/deals-articles/2021-hyundai-santa-fe-debuts-with-199-mo-lease-deal

[@istaygolden3017]

I'm honestly digging the new Kia Sorento more I think 🤔 but this ain't no slouch either haha

[@MEAMERIE]

I still hate the rims lol, but I do like the seat fabric choice on the SE. Also, that the exhaust is visible.

[@RaitisRides]

I feel your pain!

[@joycejovero3412]

Review the Hyundai Palisade please👈💯

[@ditcka1]

How do yiu get lights to pulsate?

[@stephenhendricks103]

Once again I'm puzzled by the fact that reviewers, including Joe, never mention the Santa Fe's most obvious competitor, the closely related KIA Sorento. The same blind spot exists when reviewing the Sorento. No mention of the Santa Fe. The vehicles are virtually the same size with the same interior cargo space. Same engines. Same transmission options. Same infotainment systems. Same AWD systems. None of that is surprising since the two vehicles ride on the same platform. In fact, for 2021 the two are even more closely related than in the previous generation when the Sorento offered a V6 that was lacking in the Santa Fe. Now the engine and transmission choices are identical. Virtually the only significant difference is the availability of a third row of seats in the Sorento that the Santa Fe lacks. And with the third row folded into the floor, the cargo specs are identical. Joe says he's looking forward to driving the upper trims of the Santa Fe with the turbo engine option. Here's a suggestion. Drive the 2021 Sorento. And for those interested in either the Santa Fe or the Sorento, drive them both and take your pick.

[@dygardion9130]

Can’t stand in the bumper blinkers I’m not looking at the bumper for the lights!!!!

[@yankeedave]

Remember seeing the 2k model at The Foothills Mall in Tucson and thought it was ugly.

[@RaitisRides]

It was their first try. They have come a loooooooong way.

[@royrussinger2104]

When do you anticipate testing the turbo version.

[@RaitisRides]

In a few more weeks.

[@boeingf8084]

Not bad for a SE trim but I rather pay the extra and get the upgraded trim you also did.

[@TheGraceMessage2028]

Blind spot monitoring on the base model?