The Sport looks sporty, as it should. It’s about nine inches shorter than the three-row GLS, which is a more-substantial and traditional crossover powered by a 3.3-liter V6. The Sport has also slimmed down a bit, losing 266 pounds through the use of high-strength steel, which also adds to its torsional rigidity.

Handling is agile for this type of high-profile vehicle, with Active Corner Control providing an extra measure of balance and stability. The steering response can be adjusted three ways: Comfort, Normal and Sport. I thought the tighter-performing Sport setting was the best.

The new interior is attractive and highly functional. (Photo: Hyundai)

Most impressive is the Hyundai’s quiet performance, which challenges the luxury brands. The ride is firm but it never ventures into harsh, and road roar and vibration are non-issues. The refined four-cylinder turbo engine also keeps to itself with minimal sound effects.

The interior is attractive and easy to live with. All the buttons and controls are logically placed and function properly. The optional leather seats in the test Sport were very nice. The back seat adjusts fore and aft, and folds down to create a flat cargo floor. There are also hidden storage bins under the floor.

The Sport AWD 2.0T started off at $29,450 for a well-equipped vehicle with an impressive bevy of features for the price, included a decent audio system and Blue Link telematics. The tester included the optional Leather and Premium Equipment Package, which includes the leather seating, rear-view camera, dual climate control, heated seats in the rear as well as the front, and 4.3-inch video screen, $2,450.

That plus a few other minor options and shipping brought the price tag to $33,025, which comes down firmly on the side of a lotta SUV for the money.

Hyundai/Kia’s boneheaded MPG blunder might drive off some customers, but that’s no reflection on their superior lineup of cars and SUVs, the Santa Fe being the latest success that should keep sales on the upswing.

Details

Vehicle type: Five-passenger, four-door crossover SUV, all-wheel drive.
Engine: 2-liter turbocharged inline-4, 264 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, 269 pound-feet of torque at 1,750 rpm.
Transmission: Six-speed automatic with manual shift.
Wheelbase: 106.3 inches.
Overall length: 184.6 inches.
Curb weight: 3,706 pounds.
EPA mileage rating: 19 city, 24 highway, 21 overall.

Bob Golfen, Automotive Editor for SPEED.com, is a veteran auto writer based in Phoenix, Arizona, with a passion for collector cars, car culture and the automotive lifestyle. SPEED.com fans can email Bob Golfen at