Although this would not be my first choice in a small SUV, it does provide competent transportation at an attractive price. I can say that if you get any engine beside the 3.5 you're never going to get the goodness this Hyundai holds.
Young working woman's view: Facts are facts. Hyundai has overcome a disastrous start and produced a vehicle that is fast becoming attractive to all ages of buyers. The pricing of their products make them compatible with a used car and when you consider the attractive financing Hyundai is offering and the five year, 60,000 mile comprehensive and corrosion warranty and the ten years/100,000 miles powertrain warranty it is difficult to ignore this brand.
Especially pleasing is the fact that the Santa Fe comes standard with front and side impact airbags, power windows, alarm system, four-wheel disc brakes, and outboard occupants headrests. The safety scores for the Santa Fe were good, but the bumper test results were poor.
You have over 29.4-cubic-foot of room behind the second row of seats and when the 60/40-split rear seats are down there is 78. That is a goodly sum, but getting to it is the real pleasure. Hyundai doesn't mess around like other manufacturers who have a rear cargo door handle hidden above the license plate that is award to use and offers very little leverage. The Santa Fe comes with a robust, easy to grab even with gloves, handle. It is the best, although some might not like the esthetics. Good grief, this is a SUV; it should be loyal and practical. If you want something attractive get a nice coupe or convertible.
College attending male's view: I am taking an art class this summer and I think whoever designed this Santa Fe needs to attend one, too. It is not adorable, cuddly, or even remotely attractive. It is ugly. On the other hand, it is distinctive. So, I don't like it, but the ride was nice and there was room for a fair amount of musical equipment in back. There is plenty of room in the back seat, and, if you don't mind a little bobbing around tight corners, the car feels solid enough.