2001 Hyundai Santa Fe: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The first SUV from South Korea's biggest automaker is based on its compact Sonata sedan platform and priced against car-based rivals such as the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape. The base 4-cyl GL has front-wheel drive. V6 GL, GLS, and top-line LX models offer all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. Both engines offer manual or automatic transmission; the V6's automatic includes a manual shift feature. Traction control is a GLS and LX option. ABS is optional on all. The right-side dashboard airbag automatically shuts off if a sensor detects a child or no occupant, but side airbags aren't available. The LX has leather upholstery.

COMPETITION

Ignored in the past, compact SUVs are now some of the hottest-selling vehicles around. Though our Best Buy Honda CR-V doesn't offer true off-road ability and has milquetoast acceleration, it does mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction.

Another car-based mini-SUV, the Subaru Forester, is our Recommended choice. Like the CR-V it doesn't have a low range for serious off-road use, it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling.

New this year are the Ford Escape and clone Mazda Tribute. We have been very impressed with early production models and may elevate these two to Best Buys after we get more seat time.