Review
Introduction
The 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe is the second-generation mid-size sport-utility vehicle from Korean manufacturer Hyundai. The current Santa Fe, which launched in 2007, is a bit larger and far more luxurious than the first-generation Santa Fe. Built off a heavy-duty version of the Sonata sedan’s architecture, the ’08 Santa Fe offers two or three rows of seating. With the optional 50/50 split-folding third row, the Santa Fe can haul up to seven occupants.
Two engines are available under the hood of the Santa Fe. A 185-hp, 2.7-liter V-6 is the base engine; opting for the 242-hp, 3.3-liter V-6 brings considerably more acceleration without much of a sacrifice in fuel economy. The 2.7-liter is shared with the slightly smaller Tucson sport-utility; the 3.3-liter is shared with the Sonata mid-size family sedan. The smaller V-6 is paired with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic; the more powerful 3.3-liter V-6 comes exclusively with a five-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is optional.
Helping the Santa Fe stand out in a crowded segment are its attractive pricing, a handsome and well-appointed interior, a carlike ride and driving experience, and a full cadre of standard safety equipment. Furthermore, the Santa Fe comes with a five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Major competitors to the Hyundai Santa Fe include the Chevrolet Equinox, Dodge Journey, Ford Edge, Honda Pilot, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Mazda CX-7, Nissan Murano, and Saturn Vue.
Verdict
The Hyundai Santa Fe is an often overlooked crossover SUV that plays in a highly competitive segment of the market. Unlike some of its competitors, the Santa Fe offers third-row seating and space for up to seven occupants. The Santa Fe’s handsome design, interior quality, and carlike driving experience set it apart. Avoid the weakling 2.7-liter V-6, and opt for the larger 3.3-liter V-6 if possible.
Click here to read our full review of the Hyundai Santa Fe.
Click here to read our latest comparison test involving the Hyundai Santa Fe.
What’s New for 2008
For 2008, Hyundai is adding more equipment to the top-of-the-line Santa Fe Limited trim level, which gains a 605-watt, 10-speaker AM/FM stereo with a seven-CD changer and a power sunroof as standard equipment. Newly available on the Limited is a navigation system. The only other change for 2008 is standard Premium cloth upholstery on the SE trim level.
