2012 Hyundai Santa Fe: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe is that Downhill Brake Control becomes standard on every trim. This is otherwise a light update, with a mildly redesigned grille and an efficiency-focused tire change for some GLS models.
About the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe
2nd generation, final year before the all-new 3rd-generation redesign and the 2013 split into Santa Fe Sport and the larger Santa Fe.
Hyundai positions the 2012 Santa Fe as a roomy, do-it-all five-seat crossover for families who want useful cargo space, straightforward controls, good feature value, and available V6 power without moving into a larger SUV. The core appeal is versatility: easy daily driving, flexible rear-seat cargo space, solid safety hardware, and a cabin that focuses more on practicality and comfort than flashy design.
The 2012 Santa Fe is a five-seat crossover offered in practical GLS, sportier SE, and more upscale Limited forms. The SE stands out with a 3.5-liter V6 and a 3,500-pound towing rating, while the Limited adds leather, heated front seats, a sunroof, and an upgraded Infinity sound system. The GLS focuses on everyday usefulness with Bluetooth, roof rails, and a split-folding rear seat.
What changed, by category
2012 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 | Auto 6-Spd w/OD & Shftrnc | Auto 6-Spd w/OD & Shftrnc | Auto 6-Spd w/OD & Shftrnc |
| 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
Was the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe fully redesigned?
No. The 2012 Santa Fe received only modest updates and remained part of the second generation. It was the final model year before the major 2013 redesign and lineup split.
What changed on the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe compared with the 2011 model?
The 2012 Santa Fe gained standard Downhill Brake Control on every trim, a mildly redesigned front grille, and low-rolling-resistance tires on GLS models with 17-inch wheels. Beyond those updates, it was largely unchanged.
Does every 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe have Downhill Brake Control?
Yes. Downhill Brake Control became standard across the full 2012 Santa Fe lineup, including the GLS, SE, and Limited.
Is the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe significantly different from the 2011 model?
No. The differences are small: standard Downhill Brake Control, a mild grille revision, and an efficiency-focused tire change on some GLS models. The overall vehicle and trim lineup otherwise carried over.
What distinguishes the 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe SE and Limited trims?
The 2012 SE is the sportier model, with a 3.5-liter V6, trailer-prep equipment, and a 3,500-pound towing rating. The Limited emphasizes comfort with leather seating, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a sunroof, and an upgraded Infinity audio system.