Driving Impressions

Nobody can really expect an SUV, even one built using a stiff unibody, to handle as well as a sedan. However the new Hyundai Santa Fe comes mighty close. Indeed as long as you don't fling it around corners as if you're in a sports sedan, you'll have no complaints about the Santa Fe's handling. 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. The GLS comes with the smaller of two available V6 engines and is available with a manual transmission, which is a unique combination in the U.S. We haven't had a chance to check it out and Hyundai admits few people will buy one, but a manual transmission is available for drivers who want one. We briefly drove a Santa Fe with all-wheel drive and on dry pavement it did not feel any different from the front-drive model. All-wheel drive is designed to improve handling stability and traction on slippery surfaces. All Santa Fe models include electronic stability control with traction control. The best value may be the front-drive SE model, which has the same high-tech aluminum engine and transmission as the Limited.

Final Word

The Hyundai Santa Fe is the same size as the Toyota Highlander, but it costs less. Judging from Hyundai's performance in J.D. Power and Associates quality studies, Hyundai's vehicles are right in there in terms of quality and reliability as well. If you're in the market for a suburban SUV rather than a genuine off-road vehicle, the capable and refined Santa Fe should be included on your shopping list. NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent John Rettie drove the Hyundai Santa Fe in Santa Barbara.