2008 Hyundai Santa Fe Review
The Santa Fe is a midsize Crossover Utility Vehicle that debuted for 2001. In the middle of the 2002 model year, an extra two gallons were added to its fuel tank, and 2003 brought many more refinements, such as a 3.5-L V6. After a facelift for 2005, the Santa Fe was redesigned in 2007.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a solid CUV choice that ranks with the best of Toyota and Honda. It might not be as refined, nor quite as reliable, but its generous warranty more than makes up for its small flaws. If you’re on the hunt for a new CUV, be sure to take it for a test drive.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Santa Fe 2.5 stars for mechanical and design quality, and 3.5 stars for performance. Problems with the first generation include failing sensors, engine stalling and noise, poor shifting, transmission leaks and worn radiator hoses. It was recalled four times for improperly manufactured crankshaft sensors, brake malfunctions and inaccurate airbag sensors. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for five years or 60,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Santa Fe earned 5 stars in government crash tests. It also earned perfect IIHS scores and is one of their 2008 “Top Safety Picks.” Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, active head restraints, tire-pressure monitoring, and stability and traction control.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Good value
+ Superior warranty
+ Excellent safety
Cons
- Beat in price & features by the Sorento
- AWD not standard
- Cheap feeling interior
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Ford Escape includes a standard automatic, but costs about a thousand more. The Kia Sorento has a standard automatic and nearly 60 more hp. The Suzuki Grand Vitara includes standard AWD, but has less carrying capacity.
What Others Are Saying:
“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.” – The New York Times
“The Santa Fe may not be a dynamic or quality triumph, but it’s still a good value, and that’s what most potential buyers will be concerned with…The latest Santa Fe amounts to one more bargain-filled step down the road to refinement–we just wish it was a slightly bigger step.” – Automobile Magazine
“Captain Farago concluded that Hyundai’s Sonata would succeed because it was so neutral, and he was right. The Santa Fe almost gets the same assessment, but for the genetically mutated styling. Still, the Santa Fe is cheap…with a wikkid warranty. Ten years ago, those were the only reasons to buy a Hyundai. With the Sonata, they’re an added bonus on top of an already good car. The Santa Fe’s appeal lies somewhere in between. In that sense, the new Santa Fe is a bit of a Korean line dancer: two steps forward, one step back.” – The Truth About Cars
Read more about the 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe at the Hyundai manufacturer web site.
