2009 Hyundai Santa Fe

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Styling on the 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe is a high point, with a rounded body that brings the look of this mid-sized SUV up to date. Base prices start just under $22,000 for the 2-wheel-drive GLS. This model has a 5-speed manual transmission and a 2.7L V6. The SE trim changes the drivetrain to a 3.3L motor paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The SE also adds 18-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, plus a leather wrapped shift knob and steering wheel. The Limited comes packed with luxury and convenience items, including a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated exterior mirrors, and a sticker price starting at $5,800 higher than the GLS.

Its heated leather seats are especially comfortable and the wood trim on the dash adds a touch of elegance. Acceleration with the 3.3L is spirited, and the EPA says you can expect 17 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway. All trims can be ordered with either front- or all-wheel drive.

Every Santa Fe comes jam-packed with safety equipment. Six air bags help keep you safe in the event of an accident. Electronic stability control and ABS help keep you from getting into an accident in the first place. The all-wheel drive provides good traction, and there is even a windshield wiper deicer for those snowy months. Hyundai's 100,000 mile powertrain warranty is one of best out there.

Third row seats, trailer prewiring, and a rear seat entertainment system are some of the optional items that can be ordered in a number of packages within each trim.
The Hyundai Santa Fe remains largely unchanged for 2009. The standard stereo has been upgraded, and now includes an auxiliary USB port. Steel gray is no longer available, as is silver blue. Willow gray is a new paint, as is medium silver blue, radiant silver and pearl white.
V6 power standard; excellent warranty; lots of safety equipment; roomy interior for its class.
The 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe compares very favorably against the Honda CR-V and Toyota Highlander, offering a choice of V6 engines at a price point where the competition only offer 4-cylinder motors. There is plenty of safety equipment, the driving dynamics are first rate, and the interior is both nicely finished and quiet. Hyundai's 100,000 mile warranty is one of the best in the business.