Overall Rating |  |
Santa Fe looks the part, with generous equipment and a spacious cabin. It's safe and the engines are fairly economical, but it's only average to drive and the interior could be better finished.
For
- Roomy family 4x4 at affordable prices
- Very well equipped for the money
- Reasonable fuel economy and running costs
Against
- Interior trim and finish feels cut-price
- Some may find driving position lacks adjustment
- Soft suspension and over-light steering reduce driver enjoyment
Road Test
Rugged and imposing looks get the Santa Fe 4x4 off to a good start, even if the badge has little off-road credibility. Hyundai's lack of experience in this sector may also explain why it's only average to drive. The steering is too light, there's not as much grip as you'd expect, and it rolls a lot when cornering. On the road, it does not feel that stable and far too soft. And off-road it's only average, which may not bother too many buyers.
As a family estate it isn't too bad at all. The interior is spacious, and the driving position and dashboard layout are both very good. Occupants will be safe, too Santa Fe scored a creditable four stars in Euro NCAP crash tests. Diesel and smaller petrol engines are economical.
The poor, rather cheap-looking finish inside is only made up for by Hyundai's commitment to providing a decent specification.
Need To Know
JD Power stars: 4
NCAP: 4
Best Models: 2.7 V6
Worst Models: 2.4
Replacement: 2006 by current range
Alternatives
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Star Ratings
Handling  Comfort  Quality & Reliability Performance Roominess Running Costs Value for Money Stereo/Sat Nav |
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