For the second time around, Hyundai’s Santa Fe was recognized for withstanding the weather, in a winter driving class in England, while earning the title of Best Affordable Crossover under $28,000 in the 2014 Winter Vehicle Awards, while tying this year with 2014 Kia Sorento.
“This award from NEMPA recognizes the careful detail our engineers put into building the Santa Fe,” said Trevor Lai, Product Manager, Hyundai Motor America. “With features like the Active Cornering Control All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system and Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system, Santa Fe drivers can operate their vehicles in confidence in a wide range of weather and road conditions.”
Numerous vehicles were subjected to NEMPA members’ evaluation to determine which would offer the best winter driving experience in New England while considering the combination of winter-specific features and options with the dynamic qualities that make for a safe, enjoyable, and competent all-weather driving.
“Every year during Official Winter Vehicle of New England judging, NEMPA members are looking for vehicles that perform well in a number of different segments. Competitors in this particular segment have it tough,” said Craig Fitzgerald, NEMPA President. “Not only do they have to offer outstanding winter performance, but they have to provide all the qualities New England drivers are looking for in a crossover – cargo capacity, room for six-plus – and then do it at a price under $28,000. That’s a tall order that Hyundai managed to pull off with the Santa Fe.”
The 2014 Santa Fe is built with the new safety technologies and premium features including rear park assistance, blind spot detection, standard vehicle stability management, anti-lock braking system and seven airbags. With the Active Cornering Control All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system, The Santa Fe is able to control torque and braking in conjunction with the Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system. The 2014 model is powered by the highly-acclaimed 3.3-liter V6 engine offering ideal fuel economy, drivability and a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs.