When the 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe starts hitting dealer lots this year, it will bring with it a fresh new look, seating for up to seven passengers, and will extract power from either a 180-horsepower 2.7-liter V6 or a larger six-cylinder engine displacing 3.3 liters. That smaller powerplant is standard fare on the base model, the GLS. Also featured are a five-speed automatic transmission, stability control, four-wheel-disc antilock brakes, 16-inch alloy wheels, heated power mirrors, power door locks and windows, and a roof rack. Safety equipment includes front-side and side-curtain airbags for both rows (seven-passenger seating is reserved for the higher trims), air conditioning, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, and a tire pressure monitoring system. A power sunroof and a four-speed automatic transmission are among the available options.

One step up the ladder is the 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe SE, which swaps in a 230-horsepower 3.3-liter V6 mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch alloy wheels, a power driver’s seat, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. Upgraded sound and video systems are optional, as is a 50/50 split-folding third-row seat and an automatic load-leveling suspension.

Poised at the top of the 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe lineup is the Limited model, made worthy of its position thanks to standard heated leather seats, a dual-zone climate control system, and a fully carpeted cargo area. The Limited also features unique chrome trim on the grille and door handles, as well as a color-keyed rear spoiler. Options for the Limited mirror those of the Santa Fe SE.