With the optional third row of seats folded down, there is a generous 34.2 cubic feet of storage space on an almost flat floor. Fold down the middle row of seats and there is 78.2 cubic feet of storage space. Although the Santa Fe is one of smallest midsize SUVs in exterior dimensions it is far from being the smallest inside, a tribute to its space-efficient design.
The air vents for the center row of seats are mounted in the B-pillar, which is much more effective than being mounted down low behind the center console, as in many vehicles.
Third-row seating in the Santa Fe is similar to that in other SUVs, so it's of limited use for anything other than carrying kids short distances. Setting up the third row for seating in the Santa Fe leaves a mere 10 cubic feet of cargo space, which is no more than you'll find in a cramped two-door coupe. If you really need to carry seven passengers and/or cargo, a minivan is better. Additionally, one loses the very practical hidden storage space under the rear floor when the vehicle is fitted with the optional third row of seats. In short, the Santa Fe can carry seven passengers but works better for five. Next Page