2004 Hyundai Santa Fe Specs: A Detailed Overview
Let's dive into the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe specs. This SUV was a popular choice back in the day, and for good reason. Understanding its specifications can help you appreciate its features and capabilities, whether you're a potential buyer, a current owner, or just a car enthusiast. The 2004 Santa Fe came with a few different engine options, each offering a unique blend of power and fuel efficiency. The standard engine was a 2.4-liter inline-4, producing around 138 horsepower. This engine was ideal for those looking for a reliable and economical option for daily commuting and light-duty tasks. It provided adequate power for navigating city streets and offered decent fuel economy, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious consumers. The 2.7-liter V6 engine was the more powerful alternative, generating approximately 181 horsepower. This engine was designed for drivers who needed more grunt for towing, hauling cargo, or simply enjoying a more spirited driving experience. The V6 provided smoother acceleration and greater overall performance, making it a favorite among those who valued extra power under the hood. Transmission options included both a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic, giving drivers the flexibility to choose their preferred driving style. The 5-speed manual transmission offered more control and engagement, while the 4-speed automatic provided convenience and ease of use, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. The Santa Fe's suspension system was designed for a comfortable ride, featuring independent front and rear suspension to absorb bumps and road imperfections effectively. This setup contributed to a smooth and stable driving experience, making it suitable for long trips and everyday commutes. Inside the cabin, the 2004 Santa Fe offered a range of features focused on comfort and convenience, including air conditioning, power windows, and a decent sound system. These features enhanced the overall driving experience and made the Santa Fe a pleasant place to be, whether you were running errands around town or embarking on a road trip. Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS) and airbags, providing essential protection for occupants in the event of a collision. While not as advanced as modern safety technologies, these features offered a reasonable level of safety for the time and helped to protect drivers and passengers in various driving situations. Overall, the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe was a well-rounded SUV that offered a good balance of performance, comfort, and practicality. Its various engine and transmission options allowed buyers to choose the configuration that best suited their needs and preferences, while its comfortable interior and essential safety features made it a reliable and enjoyable vehicle to own. Understanding these specs can provide valuable insights into what made the 2004 Santa Fe a popular choice and why it remains a relevant option for those seeking an affordable and dependable SUV.
Engine and Performance Specs
Okay, let's break down the engine and performance specs of the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe in more detail. As mentioned earlier, you had a couple of choices under the hood: the 2.4-liter inline-4 and the 2.7-liter V6. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine was the base option, and it was all about efficiency and reliability. It produced around 138 horsepower and about 150 lb-ft of torque. What does this mean for you? Well, it's enough power for your daily commute, running errands, and generally getting around town without any fuss. It wasn't designed for racing or heavy-duty towing, but it was a solid, dependable engine that wouldn't let you down. Fuel economy was a strong point for this engine, making it a smart choice if you were watching your gas budget. Now, if you wanted a bit more oomph, the 2.7-liter V6 was the way to go. This engine cranked out about 181 horsepower and around 177 lb-ft of torque. The extra power made a noticeable difference in acceleration and overall driving experience. You'd appreciate the V6 when merging onto the highway, climbing hills, or carrying a load of passengers and cargo. It just felt more confident and responsive than the four-cylinder. Of course, the trade-off was slightly lower fuel economy, but many drivers felt it was worth it for the added performance. Both engines were available with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The 5-speed manual gave you more control over the engine's power and allowed for a more engaging driving experience. If you enjoyed shifting gears and feeling connected to the car, the manual transmission was a good choice. On the other hand, the 4-speed automatic was all about convenience. It made driving easier, especially in stop-and-go traffic, and required less effort from the driver. It was a popular choice for those who preferred a more relaxed and hassle-free driving experience. In terms of performance, the V6-equipped Santa Fe could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 10 seconds, while the four-cylinder version took a few seconds longer. The V6 also had a higher towing capacity, making it a better choice if you planned to tow a small trailer or boat. Overall, the engine and performance specs of the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a good balance of efficiency and power. Whether you chose the four-cylinder or the V6, you could expect a reliable and capable SUV that was well-suited for a variety of driving needs. The choice ultimately came down to your personal preferences and priorities.
Interior Features and Dimensions
Let's step inside and check out the interior features and dimensions of the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe. This SUV was designed with comfort and practicality in mind, offering a spacious cabin and a range of features to enhance the driving experience. The interior of the 2004 Santa Fe was generally considered to be well-built and functional, with a focus on providing a comfortable and user-friendly environment for both the driver and passengers. The materials used were durable and of reasonable quality for the time, and the overall design was straightforward and easy to navigate. One of the key features of the Santa Fe's interior was its spaciousness. It offered plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear occupants, making it a comfortable choice for long trips and family outings. The rear seats could also be folded down to create a larger cargo area, providing ample space for luggage, groceries, or other items. In terms of features, the 2004 Santa Fe came standard with air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a decent sound system. Higher trim levels added features such as cruise control, a sunroof, and leather upholstery. While these features may seem basic by today's standards, they were considered to be quite desirable at the time and added to the overall appeal of the Santa Fe. The dashboard layout was simple and intuitive, with easy-to-read gauges and controls. The center console housed the audio system and climate controls, which were within easy reach of the driver. The seats were generally comfortable and supportive, providing adequate cushioning for long journeys. The driving position was also good, with a clear view of the road ahead. In terms of dimensions, the 2004 Santa Fe had a wheelbase of 103.1 inches, an overall length of 176.8 inches, a width of 72.6 inches, and a height of 67.9 inches. These dimensions made it a mid-size SUV that was easy to maneuver in city traffic and park in tight spaces. The cargo area offered 34.2 cubic feet of space with the rear seats up and 77.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This was a competitive amount of cargo space for its class, making it a practical choice for families and those who needed to haul a lot of gear. Overall, the interior of the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe was a comfortable and functional space that offered a good balance of features and practicality. While it may not have been the most luxurious SUV on the market, it provided a pleasant and user-friendly environment for both the driver and passengers.
Safety Features and Reliability
When it comes to safety features and reliability, the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe had some noteworthy aspects. While it might not boast the advanced tech of today's cars, it provided essential safety measures for its time. Plus, its reputation for reliability is something to consider. The 2004 Santa Fe came standard with anti-lock brakes (ABS) and airbags, which were crucial safety features back then. ABS helps prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. Airbags, of course, provide cushioning in the event of a collision, reducing the risk of injury to the occupants. Some models also included side airbags for added protection. While it lacked modern features like electronic stability control or lane departure warning, the 2004 Santa Fe's safety features were on par with other SUVs in its class at the time. As for reliability, the 2004 Santa Fe has generally been regarded as a dependable vehicle. However, like any car, it has its share of potential issues. Common problems reported by owners include issues with the automatic transmission, particularly with shifting smoothness and longevity. Some owners have also experienced problems with the engine, such as oil leaks and sensor failures. Electrical issues, such as problems with the power windows and door locks, have also been reported. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential to keep the 2004 Santa Fe running smoothly and reliably. This includes changing the oil regularly, replacing worn parts, and addressing any issues as soon as they arise. It's also a good idea to have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle periodically to identify and fix any potential problems before they become major issues. Despite these potential issues, many owners have reported positive experiences with the 2004 Santa Fe, praising its overall reliability and longevity. With proper care and maintenance, it can be a dependable and affordable SUV. When considering a used 2004 Santa Fe, it's crucial to have it thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify any existing problems or potential issues. This can help you make an informed decision and avoid costly repairs down the road. It's also a good idea to check the vehicle's maintenance history to see if it has been properly maintained and whether any major repairs have been performed. Overall, the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a reasonable level of safety features for its time and has a generally good reputation for reliability. However, like any used car, it's essential to do your homework and have it inspected before making a purchase.
Fuel Economy and Trim Levels
Now, let's talk about fuel economy and trim levels for the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe. Understanding these aspects can help you make a more informed decision, especially if you're considering buying one. Fuel economy is always a key consideration, and the 2004 Santa Fe's fuel efficiency varied depending on the engine and drivetrain. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, with its focus on efficiency, offered the best fuel economy. It was rated at around 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. These numbers were respectable for a mid-size SUV of its time, making it a good choice for those who wanted to save on gas. The 2.7-liter V6 engine, with its added power, had slightly lower fuel economy ratings. It was rated at around 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. While the difference may not seem significant, it could add up over time, especially if you do a lot of driving. Keep in mind that these are just EPA estimates, and actual fuel economy can vary depending on driving conditions, driving habits, and vehicle maintenance. Factors such as tire pressure, air filter condition, and overall vehicle health can all affect fuel efficiency. As for trim levels, the 2004 Santa Fe was available in a few different trims, each offering a different level of features and equipment. The base GLS trim was the most affordable option and came with standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a CD player. It was a good choice for those who wanted a basic and reliable SUV without a lot of frills. The higher-level LX trim added features such as cruise control, alloy wheels, and a sunroof. It offered a more comfortable and convenient driving experience and was a popular choice among buyers. The top-of-the-line Limited trim included leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium audio system. It was the most luxurious option and offered a high level of comfort and convenience. When choosing a trim level, it's essential to consider your needs and budget. The base GLS trim may be sufficient for those who just need a basic and reliable SUV, while the higher-level trims offer more features and amenities for those who want a more comfortable and convenient driving experience. Overall, the 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a range of fuel economy and trim level options to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you were looking for an efficient and affordable SUV or a more luxurious and feature-rich model, there was likely a Santa Fe that fit your requirements.
