The 2009 Santa Fe’s functionality and utility are two of its biggest strengths, actually. With an expansive cargo area (max. 2,214 litres) and a large partitioned compartment underneath it, not to mention multiple storage bins integrated to the doors, center console, ceiling and dash top, it boasts greater capacity than the very accommodating Toyota RAV4 and most other SUVs/CUVs for that matter. There’s one little problem, though: while the rear seatbacks recline to increase passenger comfort, they do not create a perfectly-flat cargo floor when folded forward (contrary to what Hyundai claims). Oh well...
On the plus side, the automatic-equipped Santa Fe GL is loaded with standard features, including air conditioning, cruise control, remote entry, heated front seats and mirrors, four 12-volt power outlets, a folding rear center armrest with cup holders as well as a leather-wrapped, tilt-telescopic steering wheel with integrated audio controls. Speaking of which, the stereo features satellite radio, an auxiliary input and, new for 2009, a USB slot. How convenient!
Smooth on the road
Given the size and limited output of my tester’s 185-horsepower, 2.7-litre V6, accelerations were far from explosive, especially with an autobox that uses only four gears (in GL trim) and is sometimes slow to react. That said, in normal driving conditions, I found this combo reasonably satisfying. Besides, the transmission offers manual shift capability, so you can exploit the engine’s power a little more enthusiastically whenever you feel the urge.
The ride is smooth and comfortable; bumps and potholes are effectively dealt with so you don’t feel most of them. Handling is understandably affected, as evidenced by the slight body roll in corners. Does it really matter? Probably not for the average Santa Fe buyer, who will spend more time appreciating the quiet, refined interior offering a relaxing atmosphere... unless, of course, you have to play referee with the kids in the back. No DVD entertainment system is available with the Santa Fe, so either you purchase a portable aftermarket unit or you make them believe that they’re going to Disney World.
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| The Santa Fe offers an expansive cargo area with a large partitioned compartment underneath it. |
On the plus side, the automatic-equipped Santa Fe GL is loaded with standard features, including air conditioning, cruise control, remote entry, heated front seats and mirrors, four 12-volt power outlets, a folding rear center armrest with cup holders as well as a leather-wrapped, tilt-telescopic steering wheel with integrated audio controls. Speaking of which, the stereo features satellite radio, an auxiliary input and, new for 2009, a USB slot. How convenient!
Smooth on the road
Given the size and limited output of my tester’s 185-horsepower, 2.7-litre V6, accelerations were far from explosive, especially with an autobox that uses only four gears (in GL trim) and is sometimes slow to react. That said, in normal driving conditions, I found this combo reasonably satisfying. Besides, the transmission offers manual shift capability, so you can exploit the engine’s power a little more enthusiastically whenever you feel the urge.
The ride is smooth and comfortable; bumps and potholes are effectively dealt with so you don’t feel most of them. Handling is understandably affected, as evidenced by the slight body roll in corners. Does it really matter? Probably not for the average Santa Fe buyer, who will spend more time appreciating the quiet, refined interior offering a relaxing atmosphere... unless, of course, you have to play referee with the kids in the back. No DVD entertainment system is available with the Santa Fe, so either you purchase a portable aftermarket unit or you make them believe that they’re going to Disney World.
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| Most Santa Fe owners will spend more time appreciating the quiet, refined interior offering a relaxing atmosphere… |