The model stood out with a modern design at the time of release, a spacious cabin, and a broad selection of powertrains. This third-generation Hyundai Santa Fe review covers the main specifications, updates compared to the previous model, its current state on the used market, and features particularly relevant for American buyers.
Introduction
The Hyundai Santa Fe third generation (DM) was produced from 2012 to 2018. The generation is now complete. The model debuted at the 2012 New York Auto Show, European sales began the same year, and vehicles reached the United States market starting in late 2012. It is built on the Hyundai-Kia Y6 platform (also used in the second-generation Kia Sorento). Within the Santa Fe lineup, this generation was positioned as a versatile midsize family crossover available in both five- and seven-seat configurations (the latter as Grand Santa Fe or Santa Fe XL in some markets). Standout features include the Fluidic Sculpture styling with its signature hexagonal grille, flowing body lines, significantly improved sound insulation, and a higher level of standard and optional equipment compared to the prior generation.
What’s New Compared to the Previous Generation
Compared to the second generation (CM, 2006–2012), the Santa Fe DM received sweeping updates. The exterior adopted a sharper, more contemporary look thanks to the Fluidic Sculpture design language. Dimensions grew: length increased by about 2.8 inches, width by roughly 0.6 inches, resulting in noticeably more interior room. The chassis was entirely new — stiffer, with revised suspension geometry (MacPherson struts front, multi-link rear). Comfort jumped significantly: better noise and vibration isolation, higher-quality interior materials, and options such as leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, rear seat heating, and heated steering wheel. Safety enhancements included electronic stability control, hill-start and hill-descent assist, up to seven airbags, rearview camera, and parking sensors on higher trims. Technology upgrades brought a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and Bluetooth connectivity (availability varied by trim and market).
Current Condition of the Generation
Production of the Santa Fe DM ended in 2018, giving way to the fourth generation (TM). The final model years (2015–2018 facelift) featured revised headlights with LED daytime running lights, updated taillights, a refreshed grille, mildly revised bumpers, and interior tweaks including a new infotainment interface and updated shifter design in some versions. Key timeline: debut in 2012, major facelift in 2015, production end in 2018. On the used market, the most desirable examples are typically the 2015–2018 facelifted models equipped with the 2.2 CRDi diesel — they offer the best blend of performance, fuel economy, and long-term durability when properly maintained.
US Market
In the United States, the Hyundai Santa Fe III (DM) remains a very common midsize crossover on the used market. According to major listing platforms (such as Cars.com, Autotrader, and others) in late 2025 – early 2026, there are hundreds of active third-generation Santa Fe listings at any given time. New vehicles of this generation are long gone, but late-model imports from other regions and especially clean, low-mileage examples from 2016–2018 continue to appear. The used market is very active, with plentiful vehicles showing 90,000–180,000 miles, both local trade-ins and those imported from other countries. Approximate market price range (depending on condition, trim, mileage, and year):
- 2012–2014 — $9,500–$14,000
- 2015–2016 — $13,000–$18,000
- 2017–2018 (facelift) — $16,500–$22,500
The most sought-after versions are those with the 2.2L CRDi diesel (when available), automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive, particularly in higher trims such as Limited, Ultimate, or Panorama equivalents.
Main Trims & Equipment Levels in the US Market
The following trim levels and typical equipment packages are most commonly seen on the American used market:
| Trim Level | Typical Equipment |
| Base / GLS / SE | Cloth upholstery, air conditioning or dual-zone climate control, CD/MP3 audio, heated front seats, 17–18" alloy wheels, rearview camera (standard from 2015), 6 airbags, ESC |
| Mid / SE Ultimate / Limited | Leather (or leatherette) seats, heated steering wheel & rear seats, 7–8" touchscreen infotainment, keyless entry & push-button start, front & rear parking sensors, 18–19" wheels, power liftgate (facelift models) |
| Top / Limited Ultimate / Premium | Leather + wood/aluminum trim, panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, adaptive cruise control (rare), 360° camera system (facelift), HID/LED headlights, premium Infinity audio, 19" wheels |
In the US market, most examples feature HTRAC all-wheel drive (electrically controlled coupling), the 6-speed automatic transmission, and comfort-oriented suspension tuning well-suited to American roads. Diesel versions, though less common than gasoline models, usually came with richer option packages.
Conclusions & Relevance Today
On the American used market, the Hyundai Santa Fe III (DM) continues to be an attractive option for families looking for a roomy, reliable, and relatively affordable-to-own midsize crossover with solid equipment levels. It suits buyers searching for a vehicle in the $10,000–$22,000 range that delivers a spacious cabin (including available 7-seat versions), all-wheel drive, and — in diesel form — excellent fuel economy. The generation remains relevant thanks to its strong balance of price, quality, parts availability, and service support. The most desirable examples are facelifted 2.2 CRDi 200 hp models from 2016–2018 — they suffer from fewer early issues, feature better lighting and infotainment, and hold up well with proper care. When shopping for a used Santa Fe DM, pay special attention to:
- Service history of the D4HB turbodiesel (timing chain, EGR system, DPF, dual-mass flywheel);
- Condition of the 6-speed automatic transmission (especially beyond 120,000–130,000 miles);
- Underbody rust, wheel arches, and hidden cavities;
- Operation of the AWD coupling and driveshaft;
- Verified mileage history and clean title.
With careful selection, the Hyundai Santa Fe DM remains one of the strongest choices in the sub-$22,000 used midsize crossover segment in the United States.
