2008 Hyundai Santa Fe

Last year's addition of extra inches boosted the 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe into the midsize SUV category. One of Hyundai's most popular vehicles, the Santa Fe comes in three trims - the base GLS, SE, and the more luxurious Limited. All are available in either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. For 2008, the Santa Fe receives a few new features. Premium cloth upholstery now adorns the SE, and the Limited gets a standard sunroof and a 7-CD changer with ten speakers. An optional navigation system is also now available for the Limited.

The versatile 2008 Santa Fe starts off in the GLS with two rows, but an optional third row can be added to the SE and Limited trims. Both rows split-fold and fold flat, expanding the cargo area from 30 to 78 cubic feet. A standard roof rack adds even more storage space. ABS brakes, traction and stability control, and dual front-side and side curtain airbags for all rows are standard, and the 2008 Santa Fe ranks in the highest categories for safety. Base models start off with a 2.7-liter, 185-hp V6 and 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic transmission, while the SE and Limited are powered by a more powerful 3.3-liter, 242-hp V6 and 5-speed automatic. No manual is available with the 3.3-liter V6.

The Santa Fe's AWD is not meant for off-roading, but helps the vehicle handle well in tough road and weather conditions. Interior comfort has been improved, with Hyundai claiming the third row offers more legroom than the Honda Pilot's. Owners seem to agree, rating overall comfort and cargo capacity highly. Other highlights include the Santa Fe's handling and smooth ride. Only the 17/24 fuel economy seems to detract from this otherwise popular and ever-improving SUV.