2001-2006 Hyundai Santa Fe: Road Test

Santa Fes function well in several areas, but performance is not among them. A test AWD LX accelerated to 60 mph in a middling 10.3 seconds, and was low on passing muscle, suggesting that this V6 won't have much in reserve with a sizable load. Slightly lighter weight makes the 2WD GLS feel marginally quicker. On the plus side, an AWD LX averaged a commendable 22.3 mpg, despite gas-eating performance runs. A 2WD GLS averaged 14.5 to 19.3 mpg, with more city driving. Although the ride is comfortably absorbent on undemanding surfaces, sharp ridges and expansion joints can jolt. Body lean is apparent in tight, fast corners, but far from alarming. Front-drive versions have surprisingly poor traction on wet surfaces, but all-wheel drive provides good all-weather grip. With ABS, a test LX made short work of simulated emergency stops, but sluggish, mushy pedal action does not inspire confidence. The V6 engine groans at full throttle, but is decently quiet otherwise. Wind rush and tire roar are well-controlled. Instruments are clear and controls accessible, but shorter drivers might find some gauges obscured. Also, some switches have unusual shapes. Similarly, the dashboard and door panels are molded with needless contours. The grade of interior materials is nothing special. Front room/comfort is at least class-competitive, especially in head room. Step-in is decently low, despite a tall stance, which contributes to fine visibility. Limited rearward seat travel, on the other hand, spoils a basically good driving position, and some seat adjustments are tedious. In the rear, the Santa Fe rivals many midsize SUVs for leg space, even with the front seats pushed back. Still, space is too narrow for three adults. Slim door bottoms impede entry/exit. Cargo room challenges some midsize SUVs, but there's not much floor length behind the rear seat. A standard separate-opening tailgate window is convenient. That's not true of the wind-down spare tire, which is mounted beneath the body.

Value for the Money
Hyundai's SUV needs more V6 muscle and better interior detailing, but Santa Fe is a high features-per-dollar vehicle with a generous 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and 10/100,000-mile powertrain coverage.