New 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe [ 2009 , 2007 ]
Hyundai Santa Fe - What the Auto Press Says
The Santa Fe delivers safety and value, but still can't match the performance of competitors. Overall, it ranks near the middle of its large class and in the bottom half when compared to other affordable crossovers.
Redesigned in 2007, the new Hyundai Santa Fe is a value-priced family hauler that just doesn't stand out in a competitive segment. Still, Car and Driver says, "For an SUV that costs well under 30 grand, you get a lot here: a roomy interior, decent feature content, reasonable refinement, and V-6 power. The Santa Fe is definitely worth checking out." For 2008, the Santa Fe gets a few more standard features and an optional navigation system. The Santa Fe seats five in two rows and comes with an optional third row to accommodate up to seven passengers. Despite its mediocre performance, most reviewers feel that the Santa Fe is a solid choice for those who need room for kids or gear.
The Santa Fe comes in three trims -- the GLS, SE and Limited -- with either a 2.7-liter or 3.3-liter V6 engine. It comes standard in front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is available.
- "Here is a top-notch mid-size SUV with solid features, a good ride, a great warranty that I understand is not costing as much as had originally been feared, and a ton of attributes that make other manufacturers' mouths water." -- The Auto Channel
- "Bigger than the outgoing model, the Santa Fe is a well-rounded and capable vehicle that offers a third row of seats, improved fuel economy and power, and a host of standard features and options. ... There are, however, competing SUVs that offer slightly more power, slightly better fuel economy, or slightly more room, and some that offer other benefits in critical areas for a slightly lower price." -- Autobytel
Santa-Fe Performance - 6.8 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Santa Fe offers only mediocre performance compared to rivals and ranks near the bottom of its class in this category. New Car Test Drive reports, "Overall, the driving experience is transparent, meaning there is nothing outstanding, negatively or positively. The steering has a pleasant feel, neither too tight nor too loose, the brakes work well if not dramatically, the ride is smooth and the vehicle is quiet." Continue with our full Performance Review to learn why the Santa Fe's all-wheel drive system is great for snow -- but not for rugged terrain. continue
Santa-Fe Exterior - 7.8 (Good)
While previous models had a reputation for looking a bit quirky, most reviews praise Hyundai for the Santa Fe's newly redesigned exterior, which has made the SUV more conventional and likeable. Still, the Santa Fe's design may be more forgettable now -- it only ranks in the middle of its class. About.com concludes: "I liked the bumpy, bubbly shape of the original Santa Fe. The new one is a bit more anonymous but still handsome." Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn how the Santa Fe has grown in size since 2006, or check out our Photo Gallery to see the SUV's styling for yourself. continue
Santa-Fe Interior - 7.7 (Good)
The interior of the 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe was revamped as part of last year's redesign. Motor Week says, "Interior design is among the best yet from Hyundai." Even so, the Santa Fe's interior has trouble competing in a crowded class and ranks near the middle. Continue with our Interior Review to learn why one reviewer calls the third row "a kids only area," or check out our interior photos. continue
Santa-Fe Safety - 9.8 (Excellent)
The 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe gets very good scores in federal government crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety even names it a "Top Safety Pick" for its good performance in front, side and rear tests and for its standard electronic stability control. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn about the Santa Fe's safety equipment, including side curtain air bags for all three rows of seats. continue
Santa-Fe Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe comes with a five-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Santa Fe Reliability Review to learn about Hyundai's generous powertrain warranty. continue
