Comparison - Hyundai Santa Fe SE Ultimate 2019 - vs - Mazda CX-8 XD L Package 2018

Hyundai is on a good track. For starters, the new ute looks more grown-up and handsome. The rear glass is more vertical, a boon to headroom for the sort-of-optional third-row seats (more on that later) and cargo space. With shorter overhangs, a longer wheelbase, greater length, and slightly more girth than the ’18 Santa Fe Sport, interior space is up, too. Hyundai increased visibility by employing what it claims is 41 percent more glass area than in the outgoing Santa Fe Sport to nurture the target markets of empty nesters and families moving up from a sedan.

Pros
Sharp looks,
bigger inside and out than the Sport it replaces,
packed with features.

Cons
Some low-rent plastics inside;
small fuel-economy bump;
so which one is this, again?

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is a convincing crossover SUV with room for families and cargo.

Pros
Smooth ride
Compelling value trims with plenty of features
Standard active safety features
Spacious interior
Sharp style

Cons
No available options from the factory
8-speed automatic could use a finishing touch
Average fuel economy
Thin-feeling cloth and leather