You Can’t Really Go Wrong With a Hyundai SUV If You Don’t Need 3 Rows
The 2020 Santa Fe was mentioned among the most reliable and fuel efficient two-row SUVs by Consumer Reports. In addition to the Santa Fe, Hyundai’s 2020 Kona crossover and EV variation rank well among 2-row SUVs and you cannot ignore Tucson, which was in a six-way tie with some heavy hitters on the U.S. News Best SUVs with 2 Rows for 2020.
A quick overview of all four models reveals that you can’t go wrong by owning a Hyundai SUV if you don’t need 3 rows.
The Santa Fe leads Hyundai’s 2020 2-row SUV lineup
Though tied for third on the U.S. News list of Best SUVs with 2 Rows for 2020, Hyundai Santa Fe topped their list of Best Midsize SUVs for 2020. Its 235 hp turbocharged 4-cylinder engine provides adequate acceleration without feeling underpowered while maintaining respectable fuel economy. Santa Fe owners can expect to enjoy a spacious, comfortable ride with high-end interior features, adequate and well-organized cargo space, and plenty of user-friendly tech features.
The 2020 Hyundai Kona and Kona EV rank in the top 10
Trailing down the list in a tie for sixth is the Hyundai Kona, which came in as No. 1 among Subcompact SUVs. Though Kona’s base model engine is underpowered, the 175-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch option provides adequate power without destroying fuel economy. You get composed handling and a comfortable ride with decent space upfront while rear seat and cargo space are lacking. Rounding out Kona’s strong points are an upscale interior with intuitive technology all at a buyer-friendly price.
The 2020 Kona EV version ended up further down the list tied ninth, but ranked third among US News Hybrid and Electric SUVs. Its 201 hp electric motor provides quick acceleration from a standstill and delivers higher mileage and a longer all-electric range than any of its non-Tesla EV competitors. Kona EV comes with a long list of standard features, including a larger navigation display, plenty of user-friendly tech options and a composed ride. Like the Kona crossover the EV is a bit tight in the rear seat and cargo areas, which keep it from topping 2-row SUV lists.
The Hyundai Tucson ranks with heavy hitters among 2-row SUVs
One way to judge quality is by looking at the competition. Tucson tied for the No. 17 spot on the U.S. News list with five midsize SUV heavy hitters like Honda CR-V Hybrid, Nissan Rogue and Subaru Forester. Though less engaging to drive with cramped rear seat and cargo space than many of its competitors, its above average predicted liability is a standout attribute that is difficult to ignore.
A relaxed ride, composed handling and plenty of user-friendly tech features help to offset Tucson’s underpowered engine performance, which is coupled with mediocre fuel economy. However, in a class of 45, coming out tied for 17 keeps the 2020 Tucson slightly ahead of the curve.
Any of Hyundai’s 2020 2-row lineup is a safe bet
Having all four of their 2-row SUV models ranked in the top 20 out of the 45 members included in their 2020 class demonstrates that Hyundai is doing something right. The lowest ranking member of their lineup, the Tucson ranks above the curve when it comes to reliability while both the Kona and Kona EV rank at the top of other classes demonstrate a high-level of customer satisfaction in meeting specific needs.
With the Santa Fe topping the list for the best 2020 midsize SUV, it is obvious that buyers who do not need a third row will find what they need among Hyundai’s 2020 2-row SUV selection.