Moving up from the GLS to the SE in the 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe adds a boost of power in the form of a 3.3-liter, 242-hp V6 engine. This engine is coupled with a 5-speed shiftable automatic - no manual transmission is offered. The 2008 Santa Fe SE comes standard with two rows of seats, but a third row can be added. This cuts down on cargo room, but both rows do fold flat for up to 78 cubic feet of storage. While the second row split-folds 60/40, the third row folds 50/50. Eight cupholders and four power outlets attest to this SUV's family-friendly attitude.

The front-wheel-drive midsize SUV earns five stars in crash tests, thanks to standard traction and stability control, 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, and dual front and side head airbags for the first two rows. The SE upgrades from the GLS by adding larger 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and foglights to standard equipment, which also includes a tire-pressure monitor.

Other upgrades include a trip computer and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. These are in addition to a full power setup, wheel-mounted cruise control, a CD/MP3 player, intermittent front and rear wipers, tilt and telescopic steering, a security system, and remote entry. The cargo area comes with tie-downs and an organizer, and a net and tray can be added. Other options include satellite radio, a sunroof, a power driver's seat, heated seats, and a towing package.