2005 Hyundai Santa Fe Review

More standard equipment boosts value. by Tom Lankard, New Car Test Drive

Overview


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The competent Santa Fe compact sport-utility is an even greater value for 2005 with its extensive list of standard convenience, safety, and trim features. The styling has been revised for 2005 with a new grille, refined body cladding, new tail lights, and a new rear bumper. Santa Fe looks ready for the outdoors, and its tall seating position and generous cargo capacity add to its utility.

The Santa Fe drives well on and off paved roads with decent handling and good brakes. The 2.7-liter and 3.5-liter V6 engines both deliver good acceleration, particularly in front-wheel-drive models. The four-wheel-drive system available with the 2.7-liter engine works well for light off-road duty. A new electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system available with the 3.5-liter engine provides solid footing for more challenging off-road and bad weather conditions. The 3.5-liter engine comes with a five-speed automatic transmission, an unexpected level of refinement for this class.

Side-impact air bags are standard. GLS and LX versions come with a 218-watt Monsoon stereo. Best of all, the Santa Fe is backed by Hyundai's long and comprehensive warranty, making it one of the most attractive small SUV's on the market. They say you get what you pay for, but with the Hyundai Santa Fe it seems like you get a little more.