Though listed as a compact SUV, the 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe benefits from sharing its platform with the mid-sized Sonata, thereby capable of offering a bit more passenger and cargo room than comparable compact SUVs. The biggest change this year is the replacement of the LX luxury trim with the Limited. The base GLS remains the same, but gets new auto-dimming mirrors. The Limited, like the LX, offers heated leather seats, a power driver's seat, 6-CD changer, trip computer, and automatic climate control. Both trims score well on safety, with standard ABS brakes, traction control, and dual front and side curtain airbags.

Though not built for off-roading, the 2006 Santa Fe is available as either a front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. A fold-down second row of seats expands the cargo area from 30 to 78 cubic feet, and a roof rack is standard. The LX comes only with a 3.5-liter, 200-hp V6 and 5-speed manual, which is offered as an option on the GLS. Standard on the GLS is a 2.7-liter, 170-hp V6 and 4-speed automatic with manual mode.

Last year's interior and exterior updates have made the Santa Fe more stylish, and the Limited is available in an all-black model for ultimate urban intimidation -- insofar as a compact SUV can be intimidating, that is. Acceleration, overall power, and gas mileage (in the teens with the 3.5 V6) are major complaints of owners, but they like the interior space and cargo capacity, the sound system, and the standard features.