10yrs
ago if you'd told me I would be recommending a Hyundai I would have
told you to take your prescribed pills and leave me the hell alone! But
time moves by (can you tell I'm listening to HRH Madonna whilst writing
this?) and over the years Hyundai have really stepped up to the plate
to be a serious contender to the big boys. Amongst the throng of mid
sized SUV's on the market most are pretty much the same, most are
better on road than off but then few will ever see anything other than
tarmac anyway, it means the decision on which to buy is made on price
and badge snobbery.
I personally love the new Santa
Fe, its big bold very funky and looks cool from any angle. The other
massive bonus is just how much room inside you get for your money. I
tested the 7 seat version and although rarely do I have 6 people in the
car with me its nice to know I have the option. The interior is nothing
special, lots of clean lines and an airy feel to the cabin, buckets of
storage everywhere and enough gadgets and toys to keep anybody happy.
The sound system as standard is great and the overall look and feel is
that of quality.
It's the exterior that really makes the Santa Fe worth looking at, from
its "Nike Tick" running lights that span the entire front headlights to
its purposeful nose and chunky look, yes it's a great looking car,
especially in Black. Fuel consumption on the 2.2 diesel I tested was
good but nothing outstanding as was the performance. It's the price
that makes the Santa Fe so appealing, the model I tested cost just
under £23,000 and you get a lot of car for your money. Hyundai also do
plenty of add on accessories to help you pimp out your ride, unless
you're a serious off roader upgrade the alloys, bung on leather and
tint down the windows and before you know it you've got a seriously
cool SUV.