2007 Hyundai Santa Fe

If you ventured into a ‘Hyundai’ dealer 20 years ago, you were either brave or misinformed. While inexpensive, you got what you paid for. Fast forward to today, and no one can deny Hyundai’s high quality vehicles and generous warranties. That’s a great setup for this all-new Hyundai Santa Fe. But is this stylish utility enough to trip-up consumers headed for the other guy’s lot?   

When MotorWeek tested the original Santa Fe in 2001, we called it “...a strong mini-UTE alternative for those worried less about a quality heritage, and more about initial value for the dollar.”  Well all Hyundai products have leaped a long way in both quality and value since then, and the all-new 2007 Santa Fe is no exception.

Built on a Santa Fe-exclusive unibody platform that’s longer, wider, taller, and 50-percent stiffer, than before, this second generation crossover utility has its eye on jumping from value-leader to segment-leader. And it looks like a leader, thanks to a bold new body, that while somewhat reminiscent of recent Toyota products, has its own strong, confident look.

The American-built effort rides on a 106.3-inch wheelbase, that’s 3.1-inches longer than before. That plus an overall length of 184.1 inches, pushes the once compact Santa Fe into the mid-size class with dimensions similar to the Toyota Highlander. And it backs up that larger size with not one, but two six-cylinder engines. In the base GLS is an upgraded version of Hyundai’s yeoman 2.7-liter twin-cam V6 with 185-horsepower and 183 pound-feet of torque.

SE and our Limited trim gain a new Lambda 3.3-liter twin-cam V6 that is also used in Hyundai’s flagship Azera sedan. Output is a robust 242 horsepower and 226 pound-feet of torque.  Transmissions are a standard 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic for the GLS, or a standard 5-speed automatic with manual shift mode for both the SE and Limited.

From the gearbox, power goes to either the front wheels, or an optional full-time all-wheel-drive system with a lockable center differential. Electronic traction and stability control are standard on all models. Wheels are 16-inch alloys for the GLS and 18-inch alloys for the SE and Limited. All include standard tire pressure monitoring. Wheel control is by a new MacPherson strut front and multi-link independent rear suspension, with engine-speed sensitive steering, tuned for American roads and driving styles.  And drive we did; from 0 to 60 in 9.4 seconds. The quarter mile passed in a sluggish 17.3 seconds at 83 miles-per-hour.

Like earlier Hyundai V6 engines, our 3.3 proved a little lethargic compared to those from Honda and Toyota. It launches strongly, but then flattens out through the middle and upper rev band.  It is however very smooth. After a quarter mile performance that is merely acceptable, the Santa Fe redeems itself with sharp, spirited handling.  Front push is modest, as the front end responds pretty quickly to steering inputs. A bit less body roll, and this would be one of the most nimble family-sized sport-UTE’s around.

Braking is a little on the long side however, with emergency stops from 60 averaging 135 feet. As ABS is standard, stability is good despite a slight pull. The pedal has a lot of travel, but not much feel. As a daily driver however the Santa Fe excels, with a very refined ride and noise control as good as that of its best rivals.

Government fuel economy ratings are 19 city/24 highway on regular gas. Our all-wheel drive averaged 22 miles-per-gallon.

Interior design is among the best yet from Hyundai.  Standard safety features include front side impact airbags, and roof-mounted curtain airbags. Standard convenience features in our Limited model include automatic dual-zone climate controls.  And MP3-capable CD audio with satellite steering wheel controls. Infinity Logic7 surround sound and a rear seat DVD viewer are optional.

There’s a roomy 60/40 split folding bench in the second row.  Tight third row seating is available, which makes the Santa Fe Hyundai’s first 7-passenger utility.  Cargo space is a useful 34.2 cubic-feet behind the second row, and a big 78.2 cubic-feet with all seats folded.  And, if you don’t order the third seat, there is a big under floor storage bin.

Pricing for the new Santa Fe starts at $21,595 for the GLS. SE trim moves up to $24,295. While Limited trim starts at $26,595.

The original Santa Fe was a high-value UTE, even if there were still questions about the name on the tailgate. With its larger size and added features, the 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe delivers even greater value.  But, now with a name that stands for great quality too.