2010 Hyundai Santa Fe

2010 Hyundai Santa Fe

Though it might share its name with a spicy chicken burger from Fuddruckers, the Santa Fe is actually Hyundai’s longest-standing SUV offering.

The original model was launched globally back in 2001, and proved extremely popular with buyers the world over despite of its rather challenging looks. The current model was launched back in 2008 with a more restrained look and still is much loved.

It offers plenty of space and practicality for the family with its generous five-seat layout – there is an option of an extra two seats in the boot to give the Santa Fe seven seats in total, though this is at the reduction of luggage carrying abilities. Equipment levels are good, if not hugely generous with the Santa Fe missing out on some of the latest technical highlights offered by the newer members in the Hyundai family.

Two engines are offered – a 2.7-litre V6 and a 3.3-litre V6. Automatic gearboxes are standard, with four-speeds on the 2.7-litre and five on the bigger engine. If you can afford to stretch to the larger engined car, it’s definitely recommended not only for the extra power that’s on offer, but also for the more direct-shifting gearbox.

The Santa Fe is quite stiffly sprung which is of benefit when driving through corners as it keeps body roll rather contained, though this can be at a detriment over badly surfaced stretches of road. Although it does have four-wheel drive, the Santa Fe isn’t really designed for strenuous off-road tasks.