2011 Hyundai Santa Fe: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe is largely a carryover, with no redesign or lineup-wide mechanical changes. The main update is a standard 605-watt, 10-speaker Infinity surround-sound system on the Limited trim.
About the 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe
2nd generation Santa Fe (2007-2012), in the second year after the 2010 refresh and before the 2013 redesign.
For 2011, Hyundai positions the Santa Fe as a roomy five-seat crossover that blends family usefulness, simple controls, strong safety credentials, and a generous feature list for the class. The core appeal is practical everyday use: a spacious cabin, flexible cargo area, easy-to-use tech, and the choice of efficient four-cylinder or stronger V6 power across the range. Against rivals, Hyundai leans on value, standard equipment, and long warranty coverage rather than flashy styling or off-road capability.
The GLS is the straightforward family trim, with five seats, flexible cargo space, Bluetooth, USB audio connectivity, and rear air vents. The SE adds a 3.5-liter V6 and 18-inch wheels, while the comfort-focused Limited brings leather seats, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a sunroof, and upgraded Infinity audio.
What changed, by category
2011 Hyundai Santa Fe specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / V6, 3.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / V6, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Shiftronic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Shiftronic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Shiftronic |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 2WD | 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26 mpg | 26–28 mpg | 26–28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 276 hp | 175–276 hp | 175–276 hp |
| Torque | 248 lb-ft | 169–248 lb-ft | 169–248 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 2000 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 78.2 cu-ft | 78.2 cu-ft | 78.2 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.8 in | 36.8 in | 36.8 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Headlights | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Windshield | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Subwoofer | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| 115V Power Outlet | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Remote Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe?
The main change is a standard 605-watt, 10-speaker Infinity surround-sound system with a 6-disc changer on the Limited trim. The rest of the lineup largely carries over from 2010.
Was the 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe redesigned?
No, the 2011 Santa Fe was not redesigned. It is part of the second generation and keeps the refreshed body introduced for 2010; a full redesign followed for 2013.
Did the 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe get new engines?
No, the engine lineup carries over from 2010. It retains the 2.4-liter four-cylinder and 3.5-liter V6, along with six-speed transmissions and front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations.
Which 2011 Santa Fe trim received the update?
The Limited is the only trim with a notable equipment update for 2011. Its upgraded Infinity surround-sound system became standard equipment.
Is the 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe significantly different from the 2010 model?
No, the 2011 Santa Fe is very similar to the 2010 model. It keeps the same refreshed styling, engines, three-trim lineup, safety equipment, and five-seat layout; the Limited's standard upgraded audio system is the key difference.