Hyundai aims for top with Santa Fe

Jan 25 2010 Peter Hayward

HYUNDAI is still aiming to become one of the major automotive players in the world and every new model it brings out shows it means business.

I've just been driving the new Santa Fe 4x4 diesel automatic and it's a cracker - easily quick enough to keep up with traffic flow out on the open road and with enough urge for occasional overtaking.

It is typically 4x4 in the way it feels, a little bulky and ponderous in its reactions to the steering wheel. But most of the others are pretty much the same.

The 2.2-litre engine is excellent - a little noisy at tickover and when cold, but smooth and quiet enough on the move.

And the five speed automatic fits its power characteristics like a glove, so that with a swift kickdown and a manual setting, you can always be on the power when you need it.

The ride is excellent over all surfaces and it even handles well, gripping long after some others let go.

Interior

This is a big car - make no mistake with loads of room for five adults to ride in complete comfort.

It comes very well quipped straight out of the box, with aircon, alloys, a big boot, and everything else you should want. The 4x4 system is completely automatic, cutting in when it's needed.

FAST FACTS

Hyundai Santa Fe

Price: £23,245

Mechanical: 148bhp, 2,188cc, 4 cylinder diesel engine driving four wheels via a 5-speed automatic gearbox

Max speed: 111mph

0-62mph: 12.5 seconds

Combined mpg: 34

Insurance group: 13

CO2 emissions: 220g/km

BIK rating: 35%

Warranty: 5yrs/ unlimited miles

Marks: 9/10

Main rival: Land Rover Freelander