Hyundai has proudly announced that the all-new 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe has been recognized as the top vehicle in the competitive midsize SUV segment in the prestigious 2024 U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) StudySM by J.D. Power. This significant accolade highlights the Santa Fe’s exceptional design, performance, and overall appeal to drivers, confirming its position as a leader in the Top Midsize Suv category. Furthermore, Hyundai’s brand performance has also seen a notable uplift, advancing three ranks to secure fourth place among mass-market brands, demonstrating a broad increase in customer satisfaction across its vehicle lineup.
Santa Fe Excels in Driver Satisfaction
The 2024 J.D. Power APEAL Study, a widely respected benchmark in the automotive industry, assesses owner satisfaction with new vehicles during their first 90 days of ownership. The study examines various aspects of the ownership experience, ranging from performance and design to comfort and features. The Hyundai Santa Fe stood out in the midsize SUV segment, earning the top midsize SUV award due to its superior scores in these critical areas. This recognition underscores Hyundai’s commitment to producing vehicles that not only meet but exceed customer expectations in terms of driving experience and overall vehicle appeal.
Hyundai Executives Ricky Lao and Olabisi Boyle accept the J.D. Power APEAL Award for Best Midsize SUV for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe.
Ricky Lao, director, product planning and mobility strategy, and Olabisi Boyle, senior vice president, product planning and mobility strategy, Hyundai Motor North America, were presented with the J.D. Power APEAL Best Midsize SUV trophy, marking a significant achievement for the company and the Santa Fe model. This award reflects the vehicle’s successful redesign and its resonance with consumers looking for a top midsize SUV that delivers on both practicality and emotional appeal.
Hyundai’s Rising Brand Satisfaction and Kona’s Recognition
Adding to Hyundai’s accolades, the 2024 Hyundai Kona also achieved second place in the Small SUV segment in the same J.D. Power study. This dual recognition for both the Santa Fe and Kona highlights Hyundai’s strength across different SUV categories and its overall improvement in vehicle appeal and driver satisfaction. The brand’s climb to fourth place among mass-market automakers in the APEAL Study signifies a broad enhancement in customer satisfaction across the Hyundai range, reinforcing its position as a leading automotive manufacturer committed to quality and driver experience.
Olabisi Boyle, senior vice president, product planning and mobility strategy, Hyundai Motor North America, commented on the Santa Fe’s achievement, stating, “We are honored to have Santa Fe recognized for standing out in this competitive segment. This achievement highlights Santa Fe’s bold, rugged design, spacious interior, and smart tech that deeply resonate with the community. Its standout aesthetic and family-friendly features reflect our commitment to blending style, innovation, comfort, and safety.” This statement emphasizes the key factors contributing to the Santa Fe’s success as a top midsize SUV, including its design, spaciousness, technology, and family-friendly features, all contributing to high levels of driver satisfaction and its leading position in the market.
In conclusion, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe’s recognition as the top midsize SUV in the J.D. Power APEAL Study, along with Hyundai’s overall brand improvement and Kona’s award, collectively underscore Hyundai’s dedication to producing vehicles that excel in design, performance, and owner satisfaction. These achievements solidify Hyundai’s standing in the automotive industry and highlight the appeal and quality of its SUV lineup to American consumers.
