The gauges are mounted in a large instrument pod in front of the steering wheel. The radio and climate controls are well located in a center stack that is mounted high in the dashboard for easy reach and observation while driving.

According to Hyundai's measurements, the headroom and legroom is greater in all rows than in competing models thanks to a uniquely designed unibody that is not based off an existing car platform, thus allowing the engineers to maximize interior space without compromise.

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 79.3 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.

We did not get to try a model with the third row of seats. In our experience they are of limited use for anything more than carrying kids short distances. With them in place there is 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 far more practical. 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.