The Good
The 2018 Santa Fe boasts a comfortable ride and spacious interior, appealing to practical buyers. It offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. Its attractive design and available features create an enjoyable driving experience for emotional buyers. Overall, it delivers excellent value for its price, and is considered fairly reliable.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2018 Santa Fe include somewhat uninspired handling compared to sportier rivals. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system's responsiveness. The base engine can feel underpowered when fully loaded. Check for proper maintenance records, especially regarding oil changes, as some engines have experienced issues.
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.4L Inline-4: Standard engine
- 2.0L Turbo Inline-4: Optional engine
- Horsepower:
- 2.4L: 185 hp
- 2.0L Turbo: 235 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.4L: 21 mpg city / 27 mpg highway (FWD)
- 2.0L Turbo: 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (FWD)
- Fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions and options.
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.4L: Around 9 seconds
- 2.0L Turbo: Around 7.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- Up to 3,500 lbs (with trailer brakes)
- Trim-Level Features:
- SE: Standard features include a rearview camera, 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and alloy wheels.
- SEL: Adds features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, heated front seats, and roof rails.
- Limited: Includes leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system.
- Ultimate: Offers features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, a surround-view camera, and heated rear seats.
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2018 |
| Make | Hyundai |
| Model | Santa Fe |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Minivan Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Korea |
| Manufacturing City | ULSAN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.3 L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 3.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Have?
Long-term reliability concerns generally revolve around maintaining the engine's health and ensuring timely oil changes to prevent potential issues related to oil sludge build-up. Also, checking the status of the vehicle's software updates is important to address any infotainment system glitches. While not extremely common, reports of transmission issues have surfaced, so a thorough inspection of the transmission is advisable before purchasing a used 2018 Santa Fe. Some owners have reported issues with the paint fading or chipping over time, particularly in regions with harsh weather conditions.
How long will the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Optional features include a surround-view monitor for enhanced visibility during parking maneuvers. The 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe generally received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), though specific ratings can vary based on the model year and trim level. Always verify crash-test ratings from official sources before purchasing. The availability of advanced safety features makes it a solid choice for families.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Prices and Market Value
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Cost of Ownership
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Fuel Efficiency
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Safety Rating
NHTSA
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Recalls & Defects
Steering: Steering Wheel/Handle BAR
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Compare to Other Wagon?
However, the Santa Fe often provides a more comfortable ride than the Rogue, with a slightly quieter cabin. Considering price and features, the Santa Fe offers a compelling value. A similar alternative would be the Kia Sorento (its corporate cousin), offering similar features and value, but with a slightly different styling. If reliability is a top priority, the RAV4 or CR-V may be better choices, even if they cost a bit more. The Ford Escape is a good choice for those seeking a sportier driving experience.
Ranks #851 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 851 | 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe a Good Wagon?
Wilber McCoy on August 29, 2023
I'm not sure what you meanI had got a 2018 Hyundai Senada and now the motor is knocking in today's date is August 29 and I bought purchase this car July 7 and now I'm going through mechanical issues with the motor. The motor has a knot in it and I do have a warranty I believe on it, but it was a bad decision
Rick on October 6, 2022
2018 Santa Fe SUCKSAt 72000 miles it started using oil.. now at 80000 miles my Santa Fe is using 1.5 quarts every 1000 miles. Dealer and Hyundai USA just seems to be blowing me off and do not care..
Tony on August 15, 2022
Best carI love this subject. The Santa fe pulls my boat with ease, has great performance and handling. I still can't believe I get 30 mpg while cruising at 75mph on the highway all this from a roomy all wheel drive vehicle.
Mary on April 9, 2022
Great car!Have had this car since late July 2018 and so far no problems except the side windows. Very hard to see coming traffic due to the window being so small and not at a reliable angle. That is the only thing I have had issues with!!! Very nice car!!! This car was purchased from the dealer and was an ex-rental car.
Genenchris on June 15, 2021
Great family SUVBest bang for the buck SUV. The Santa Fe has comfortable seating, a great ride for its class and has plenty of cargo space with great features.
Acceptable on April 14, 2021
its value depreciates very quicklyMy concern is not the car, my concern is about the dealer and the people that works there, don't make mistake and if you want a Hyundai go to a Hyundai dealer.
Joe P. on April 9, 2021
Very nice SUV. Very stylish, very comfortableProvides much storage. a great vehicle for us. Many safety features. Low mileage used car in excellent condition. Very comfortable. Lots of room. Glad we chose this car
Where is she going? on April 5, 2021
Love my Santa Fe 2018The 2018 Limited Santa Fe has all the features I wanted and more. The Ultimate Tech package is awesome. Plenty of leg room for driver and passengers, we are 5'9". White exterior/beige & expresso interior with the woodgrain are beautiful. Have plans to do lots of road trips, camping, river floats and more.
TeamRocket on March 17, 2021
Had to less to knowThe car is so far so good. I have not had it long enough to decide. I like it though so far wish it had more to offer
macbac on January 23, 2021
very comfortable and easy to driveWe love how simple to drive and the comfort is amazingly fun to drive. Thanks to Hyundai for great gas mileage. We recommend Hyundai to anyone.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.