This marks the first final of the year for Hantuchova, who made a name for herself by capturing the 2002 Indian Wells title.
"There is definitely something very special about this place for me," Hantuchova said. "It is a fantastic feeling to be back on the court and in the finals once again."
Kuznetsova defeated Sybille Bammer 6-7 (5/7), 6-4, 6-1 in a two hour, 39 minute marathon semi-final on Friday.
On Wednesday, top seed and defending champion Maria Sharapova and third seed and former champion Martina Hingis were both eliminated.
The draw was already missing big names Serena Williams, Amelie Mauresmo and Justine Henin, who decided to skip the event.
Local Duo Advances
Fifth-seeded Taiwanese women's tennis duo Chan Yung-jan (
The duo is set to play top seeds Lisa Raymond and Samantha Stosur in today's finals.
Dechy had earlier defeated Chan in the first round of the women's singles tournament.
The Pacific Life Open is the duo's sixth WTA tournament and also their sixth WTA final.
With the win, Chan and Chuang will get a chance to win their third WTA tournament.
The victory added 325 points to their WTA doubles ranking and ensured that they will make it into the top 20 in next week's official WTA rankings.
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