Here’s Why the Hyundai Santa Fe Has Just 5 Seats
The freshly updated 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe is coming very soon to Canadian showrooms with an extensive list of mechanical, technological and cosmetic revisions.
New platform, redesigned front fascia, increased interior quality, additional safety features, plus a choice of four powertrain options including a hybrid and plug-in hybrid (late availability). However, this midsize SUV is still limited to five seats. Why?
- Also: 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Coming Soon With Two Hybrid Variants
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The question was asked during a recent media roundtable hosted by Hyundai. The company said the research it has done showed that customers would be at a disservice by having a third-row seat.
According to Trevor Lai, product manager for the Santa Fe, there just wouldn’t be enough legroom for any sense of satisfaction.
People who buy a Mitsubishi Outlander or Volkswagen Tiguan in seven-passenger configuration know what he’s talking about. The Santa Fe’s cousin, the Kia Sorento, also offers a third row option, but it’s essentially suited for children only. Hyundai, apparently, doesn’t want to make that kind of compromise.
Rather, the automaker believes modern families that need three rows of seats are much better served by the Santa Fe’s big brother, the Palisade, which replaced the Santa Fe XL last year. There’s a bit more cargo room when all the seats are up, as well.
For Hyundai, of course, it’s a way to make more money. The 2021 Palisade starts at $39,199 before freight and delivery. You must add $2,000 if you want all-wheel drive.
