2005 Hyundai Santa Fe: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Hyundai gives the larger of its two compact SUVs a slight facelift for 2005 and drops its 4-cyl engine. The lineup now includes GLS and uplevel LX models, both with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. GLS comes standard with a 2.7-liter V6 and a 4-speed automatic transmission. A 3.5-liter V6 with a 5-speed automatic is standard on LX, optional on GLS. Both transmissions include a manual shift gate. Front side airbags and 4-wheel disc brakes are standard on all models. Traction control and ABS are available. Hyundai's warranty is among the industry's longest: 5-years/60,000-mi. basic, 10/100,000 powertrain.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are five-passenger vehicles.

Our Best Buys include the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Mazda Tribute, and the Mercury Mariner. Our Recommended picks are the Honda Element, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Liberty, and Subaru Forester.