Hyundai Santa Fe 2006 review

That can't be said of the sleek- looking second generation.

In addition to being a handsome vehicle the new Santa Fe also ups the ante across the board - build quality, ride and handling, practicality, noise and vibration suppression, safety and fuel economy.

It's bigger too and is available with seven useable seats in three rows complete with three point seat belts. A five seater is in the mix too.

Matching the more elegant exterior is a stylish interior with modern decor and user- friendly controls.

Safety is also greatly enhanced with the inclusion of six air bags, Electronic Stability Program, ABS and active head restraints across the range.

Santa Fe has a full size spare wheel.

The vehicle might be larger but the turning circle is smaller facilitating parking.

Two models are available, Santa Fe and Elite with a 2.7-litre V6 petrol engine initially followed soon by a 335Nm 2.2-litre turbo diesel four and a 3.3-litre V6. The petrol engines see duty in other Hyundai vehicles while the diesel is a new addition.

The 2.7 is improved with variable valve timing and variable intake system uprating output to 138kW/248Nm.

Hyundai also claims the revised engine delivers better fuel economy at 10.4-litres/ 100km.

Two transmissions are offered: a five speed manual is standard on the base model with a four speed auto optional.

The latter is possibly the only real disappointment with the new Santa Fe. It deserves a five speed auto at least.

The all wheel drive system is on-demand with drive predominantly to the front wheels until reduced traction prompts the rear wheels to start driving. It's an electronically controlled system that also offers a switchable 4WD lock mode with 50/50 torque split.

Santa Fe is a practical vehicle full of handy stuff such as the cool box between the front seats, 100kg roof racks, panoramic mirror for monitoring inside the cabin, vents for all seats and rake and reach steering adjustment.

The air conditioning (standard) has a pollen filter and both models have power windows and mirrors along with 17in alloy wheels.

The leather wheel features controls for audio and cruise. The entry level Santa Fe manual five seater is priced from $35,990.

The first thing you notice is how well built it is and the attractive new styling.

But Santa Fe is even better on the road (and off). There's plenty of performance and ride/ handling characteristics are impressive for a vehicle such as this.

Though relatively compact, the seven seats fit easily and access is simple. The rear two rows fold forming a large load space.

Plenty of onlookers wanted to know what it was and were surprised when told it was a Hyundai.