Hyundai Santa Fe (2006 and earlier)

gini1

Looking for a quick reality check! I'm thinking about getting a small SUV early in '01 and have started researching my choices. I'd like to get a vehicle with 4WD or AWD. From everything I've read here and elsewhere-- the Sante Fe seemed like a very viable option. However, yesterday I visited the local Hyundai dealer and was told that they are not yet shipping AWD models to the US and won't be for at least 6 months! Based on all the postings I've seen here from folks with AWD models, I was inclined to disbelieve the salesman. Was the guy feeding me a line of crap? Or is there validity to his statement? Just looking for a reality check, because if he was lying-- it'll make me think twice about considering the Sante Fe, even if I can find what I want somewhere else! (If someone will lie to me about something that trivial-- and easily verified-- makes me wonder what other ethical lines they'll cross!) BTW-- I live in FL-- would be particulary interested to hear from anyone in FL with an AWD Sante Fe!

darryl10

The SF I test drove two weeks ago was a GLS AWD with limited slip differential! AWD is better than 4wd. For example, when you go in a curve in 4wd, the car needs the outer tires to slip to do this. Loss of traction is not good!That is also why it can't be used in dry. Now, I don't know how quick the awd system is on the awd SF, but awd can make a car handle better, even in the dry. That's why companies like Porsche offer it on the top 'oline cars. My old Audi could go through a curve in the rain better than any fwd. It gives more neutral handling. However, I don't know how "quick" the system is. By that, I mean that the system is not a true awd system like what Sube or Audi offers (despite what the sales liar said) but is more like an automatic 4wd system that only works when the fronts slip, like my good ole CRV. As much as I endorse it for snow, I don't think it would be very useful in rain.

snowman2596

Just an update. My wife and I just took possession of our Santa Fe from Edwards-Archer. We were supremely impressed with the service we received. They did not have exactly what we were looking for initially, so they searched the midwest region until they found what we wanted. We were looking for a GLS AWD in Merlot, Pine Green, or Crystal Blue and within two days, we have taken our new Crystal Blue Santa Fe. That two days is them searching and delivering, total. They are also giving us $800 back to help with taxes.

Just a quick note to everyone who may be considering a Santa Fe or competing model. I did extensive research on a new vehicle for the first time in my purchasing life. In everything I saw and read, from professional posts and reviews to consumer reviews (which I trust the most), the Santa Fe was not only comparable but superior to everything in its class. I have read everything concerning a tremor at 60 mph and I have to say that I have not yet noticed it in my vehicle and most of the driving I have done so far has been at around 60, if not faster. If you are considering something in this class of vehicle, I would suggest that you give the Santa Fe a serious look. Of course, you should drive the vehicle and do your own research and the decision will ultimately be yours, but for the money, I don't think you'll be able to beat the convenience, comfort, and downright fun of the Santa Fe.

radkins6

Thanks for the update, and congrats on your new Santa Fe. Sounds like you got a great deal. I'll go talk to them again. I especially like the $800.00 back to help with taxes!

I agree totally with your assessment of the Santa Fe. It's by far the most impressive vehicle I've driven.

Rick Adkins

andes11

I hate to repeat myself, but the 4-wheel drive system in Santa Fe is electronically-controlled, permanently-engaged full-time 4-wheel drive. Not only that, it's the only AWD system I know other than the AWD in Porsche that the normal torque distribution is set to match its weight distribution(6:4). The torque distribution ratio varies depending on the traction needs of wheels. It also can deliver all the torque to front or rear axle. It's developed by Steyr-Daimler-Puch specifically for Santa Fe. Most of the 4wd systems in European cars icluding MB and Audi are developed by Steyr.

The 4WD system on CR-V and RAV4 is called on-demand 4WD. They are not considered AWD SUVs.

big_guy

Where are you getting your information on the Sante Fe AWD system? Everything I have read on the Sante Fe says that the AWD is a viscous coupling that only engages after it has sensed a slip by the front wheels. This is the exact same type of system as employed by the CRV, Rav4, Tribute, etc. It is not a full time engaged system like the Subaru AWD. If you can point me to an article that can verify what you are saying I would appreciate that.

andes11

If you go to the Hyundai Motor America web site, it says on the specs. page that the drive scheme is full-time 4-wheel drive.

CR-V is not full-time 4WD SUV since it doesn't have center differential and Honda doesn't call it full-time 4WD SUV.

Tribute's is not really full-time because it's not permanently-engaged type.

I was wrong on RAV4. Toyota web site says RAV4 4WD is full-time 4WD.

If you want to know how the 4WD in SF works, you should get a shop manual. You can order one from any Hyundai dealer parts dept.

big_guy

I think my confusion on your post was in the "permanently engaged" wording. When I think of a permanently engaged AWD system, I think of the system used by Subaru or Porsche where power is always delivered to both the front and rear wheels but the amount of power can be varied depending on conditions. I would consider that a permanently engaged AWD system.

From my understanding, a full-time 4WD system is any system that delivers power to one set of drive wheels (usually the front) and can transfer power to the other set of wheels (the rear) when there is a loss of traction and that this system is always "on" . . . hence the "full time" designation. However, this type of system does not provide power to both the front and rear wheels all the time. What any particular manufacturer calls the system is neither here nor there (full-time 4WD, RealTime 4WD, full-time AWD, etc.). If the system operation is always "on" then I would interpret that to mean "full-time" 4WD. Therefore, the CRV, Rav4, Sante Fe, and Tribute would all fit into the full-time category because the systems are always "on" and they only transfer power to the rear wheels when there is a loss of traction by the front wheels (although the Tribute has an electronic clutch system that can be used to manually engage the rear wheels for low speed conditions).

Am I missing something here? Is my understanding correct? I think that all the designations by the different manufacturers tend to cause a lot of confusion.

andes11

I think the confusion stems from me using 4WD and
AWD interchangeably. I don't make the distinction and would rather focus on understanding each maker's drive system than bicker over definition.

Anyone can come up with his/her own definition or understanding of 4WD or AWD. There's no point arguing over it.

When I say full-time in 4-wheel drive, I mean the torque is distributed to both axles all the time.
I didn't mean to say both axles are always ready
to be powered by the engine manually or automatically.

darryl10

Audi has always (almost, I will not in a sec) their awd ssytems. They developed the system for the Il military transport. They then planted this system in the Audi 4000 GT Coupe in '83 and the rest is history. They have continually changed it until it is now totally different. But, this is ALL audi. Now the Passat Syncro uses the same system, BUT..., VW of the past have offered awd , but they used a system made by X-trac of England. Steyer does make the awd system in the Dodge Caravan. It is also worth noting that the Hyundai system only can give power, up to 40%, to the rear. It can't shift power! For example,my previous Audi had a 60/40 split. That meant that up to to 60% of power could be given to the front OR rear.That is far more sophisticated than what the SF has. AWD simply means that all wheels can be given power. There is no legal definition. Don't assume that the Hyundai system is even close to the Audi's in technology, it isn't.

georgefarmer

Seems to be it wouldbe good to keep 60% of power in the front as that is where the weight is. As a professional forester I have driven a lot of 4WD's and always found pickups to do worse in slick conditions because of the light rear end.

andes11

The CanadianDriver review is describing the basic
opereation of on-demand 4WD system like the one in CR-V.
AWD SF doesn't have "centre viscous coupling."
The viscous-coupling unit is on the front axle, to the right of double-differential unit.

I uploaded a copy of SF 4WD system SFT Technical Description file in MS Word format to http://myhome.shinbiro.com/~chul so that you can verify what I said here.

vocus

I am stuck between the Tribute and the Santa Fe. I like the SF's traction control and available Shiftronic automatic. But reliability scares me on both, because they are new models. Of course, the Trib has been recalled already and the SF hasn't. Anyway, how many in this room actually own SFs (GLS V6) and how are they holding up? Thanks!

anonymous

WELL I HAVE A SANTA FE LX4WD FULLY LOADED AND NO PROBS LOVE THE SANTA FE. THE SANTA FE HAS BEEN OUT 3YRS ALREADY ONLY ITS FIRST YEAR IN THE US.SO THE KOREAN CAR COMPANY HAS DONE ITS HOMEWORK AND TESTING ALREADY. ITS VERY COMFORTABLE LOTS OF STORAGE AD SAFETY FEATURES BUT ANY VEHICLE IS AS SAFE AS ITS DRIVER IS!! BUT IM HAPPY WITH IT YOU WILL SEE THAT DOLLAR FOR DOLLAR YOU GET MORE WITH THE SANTA FE THAN THE TRIBUTE OR OTHER RELATED SUV'S IN THAT CLASS. BUT YOU HAVE TO MAKE THAT DECISION. ALSO REMEMBER THAT HYUNDAI HAS THE BEST WARRANTY ON THE MARKET IM A FORMER MINNIE VAN OWNER SO THIS IS MY NEXT STEP UP YOU CAN SAY. I HAVE THE TRACTION CONTROL AND ANTI LOCK BRAKES. HEATED SEATS LEATHER LEATHER IS SOFT JUST HAVE SAY VERY HAPPY. IF YOU NEED FURTHER INFO ON CONSUMER REMARKS GO TO MSN.COM PUNCH IN SUV THEN HYUNDAI SANTA FE N' THEN CONSUMER'S REMARKS GOOD LUCK

mike_vt

This is what Car and Driver has to say about the AWD system:

"The four-wheel-drive system employs a viscous coupling between the front and rear differentials that transfers up to 40 percent of the available torque to the rear wheels whenever the fronts slip."

http://www.caranddriver.com/xp/Caranddriver/previews/2000/October/200010_preview_hyundai_sante_fe.xml

Every single review that I've read describes the AWD system this way.

big_guy

I agree with mike_vt on this issue. Every article I have read on the SF is the same . . . the AWD for this small SUV is an on demand type system that works on the same principle as the CRV, Rav4, and Tribute.

jcgso

Hi all,
I picked up my Nordic White LX AWD with ABS/Traction on Monday. Extras from the factory included floor mats and roof rack cross bars. I paid about $550.00 under MSRP. I purchased at Maxon Hyundai in Union, NJ. Salesman (Matthieu) and manager (Carlos) were great, no pressure, no hassle. It was in perfect working order.
The next day, I drove it 650 miles back to North Carolina. What a break in! I could not be more pleased with the vehicle. Not one problem encountered. No rattles or squeaks, no vibration around 60-65 as some have had on this forum. The tranny was flawless, the engine quiet, the leather seats very comfortable, especially for a 10 hour trip. Power was more than adequate on uphills (through the Blue Ridge Mountains) and when passing. I truly don't know why many of the reviewers complained about power. The stereo system is great. This will be the first of many vehicles I have owned, which I won't be replacing the stereo. All in all, no complaints. I should mention my last vehicle was a Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo. I do not feel like I traded down. The best I can calculate on mileage was 20 MPG, all highway driving.
I do have 2 questions for other owners. Any idea how many gallons are left in the tank when the low fuel light comes on? Also, for LX owners, do you have the stainless steel protective scuff plate on top of the rear bumper. The brochure shows that as a standard feature on the LX, but I don't have it.
This forum has been extremely helpful and convinced me the Santa Fe was the superior vehicle when compared to the Tribute, which I was going to purchase. Thanks to all and I'll keep posting updates.

leigh8

Hello,

Can anyone tell me what these two options are? Are they different or 2 versions of the same item? Also, are they dealer added or factory installed?

Thanks.

anonymous

YES TWO DIFFERENT THINGS CARGO TRAY IS FLAT MOLDED PLstic tra that fits contour of back of santa fe from getting the carpet dirty nice little option cargo organizer is actually long narrow box like thta has little flip up storage area that you put a bag of groceries in or other things if you go dealer there is a pamphlet that shows all the little options you can get. but they r two different things

anonymous

i have lx the full monty and no i dont have stainless steel scuff plates on rear bumper either! hope you enjoy it.i bought mine in south jersey at lester glenn buick/hyundai very good people. lot of room huh!!!

hmshoodfan

I've had my Ocher Beige (US = Sandstone)Canadian GLS 6weeks (http://www.magma.ca/~jbarclay) and it has been great so far. Yesterday it plowed easily through 18"+ deep snow to get into my parking lot at work, with no problem. One needs to guard against overconfidence from the great traction, and keep away from most of the others slipsliding along....!
Its my first Hyundai (traded a Mazda MPV LX) , first awd/4wd and first vehicle that is newly onsale to consumers...

Note to a Anonymous from a previous post- I don't believe that the Santa Fe has out three years in Korea, but was first introduced there just earlier this year...

Also to the previous posts regarding 4wd/awd - from Caranddriver online:
"
TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHT: HYUNDAI
The new Santa Fe gets a novel all-wheel-drive system designed by Austria's Steyr-Daimler-Puch. The front differential and the power takeoff are integrated into a compact system of two planetary gearsets that share a common stationary ring gear. The two sun gears are connected to the front-wheel half-shafts; engine torque spins one planet carrier while the other drives the rear power takeoff and viscous coupling. Slippage at either or both front wheels accelerates the power takeoff relative to the rear wheels, causing the viscous coupling to transfer torque rearward. Planetary gearing limits the amount of torque transferred rearward to 40 percent.
"
and also C+D online
" ...The four-wheel-drive system employs a viscous coupling between the front and rear differentials that transfers up to 40 percent of the available torque to the rear wheels whenever the fronts slip. There is no low range, but a limited-slip rear differential will be added midyear. It works quietly and efficiently with complete transparency.
"

Jeff

mrtwix500

Today we had 14.3" of snow come through Springfield, Missouri where I live... Everything was basically shut down but, of course, I had to drive the 28 miles to work, and back, in all this mess...

Needless to say, my LX 2WD V6 performed above and beyond my expectations... The only problems I had was when I backed out of my driveway and into about 1 foot of new snow... When I tried to go forward, I slid sideways a little; back toward my driveway (it is a small incline)... I then put the vehicle in reverse and backed into my neighbors driveway across the street (and into his 1' of snow) with NO problem... Putting the vehicle back in drive and I was easily on my way down the street through 1 foot of snow all the way...

On the way to work, I encountered, going the opposite way, 47 semi trucks who were stuck trying to get up an extremely steep incline... I had to go up a similar incline soon after and had ZERO problems... In fact my 2WD was passing everyone else with ease and no slippage...

I drove the 28 miles to work and encountered my second problem when I parked in about 1.25" of snow... The snow plow showed up about 10 minutes later to clear the lot and I had to move the vehicle.. Again I tried to go forward but just spun a little... I then backed up a little bit with no problem and then shifted into drive and drove out of the snow easily...

On the way home this afternoon, the roads were barely cleared and packed down with snow... Many cars were slipping and sliding... The Santa Fe again went above and beyond... I did not slip one time today!!!

So, this to me just reinforces my idea of not necessarily needing to spend the additional monies on a 4WD/AWD model... My front wheel drive LX was unbelievable... If I still had my Aerostar, I wouldn't have been able to get out of my driveway much less 28 miles to work and back..

Again I say, You CANNOT go wrong purchasing this vehicle!!!

MrTwix

mwitt58714

MWITT HERE I WAS TOLD MAYBE PERHAPS I WAS MISINFORMED BUTI BELIEVE IT WAS IN ITS 3RD YEAR IN KOREA.... IF IM WRONG IM WRONGIM SORRY, BUT ISNT IT A GREAT SUV MWITT SHOULD WE A START OUR OWN CHAT ROOM TITLED SANTA FE OR SOMETHING>>>> WHAT WOULD THINK OF THAT PS HAVE YOU RECIEVED A CALL FROM THE HYUNDAI PEOPLE ASKING ABOUT YOUR SALES EXPERIENCE????

mwitt58714

I WOULD DRIVE TO NEW JERSEY AND BUY IT HERE AND DRIVE IT HOME NOT A BAD IDEA WOULD GET OUT OF THE SNOW FOR A DAY OR TWO ...... MWITT

mike_vt

The stainless steel scuff plates are not supposed to be on the bumper. They are at the bottom of the door frames on all LX models.

cardude4

I went with a friend to purchase a new Santa Fe, with everything, from Schaumburg Hyundai. After a 2 day process, and the salesman Billy, saying he ordered one from another dealer, later told by another salesman that he did not, and it was burryed in the snow in the back the first time we came in, we could not even see the sticket price, as the window sticker was lost. This also happened to the other loaded Santa Fe we drove the day before. I buy a new car every year or 2 and even my demos come with the sticker! He wanted $25.3, a little higher than all the info we looked up on the internet, and we were told that they dont even know the invoice price on theses cars? We also had to wait about 30 minutes while our salesman finished up with another customer, which is no problem, but he kept saying he was going to have the car pulled up and warmed up while we waited, but took about 30 minutes to do so. He let us drive the car without him this time, and we took about 20 minutes, in ruch hour traffic, and got a call on the mobile phone that his manager was screaming at him and to bring the car back??? Good sales tactic. While waiting, we talked with yundai owners giving us words of warning about the warrenty, and whats not covered. If I listen to the people waiting, it is not a bumper to bumper warrenty. I driven Toyota now, and think I will steer clear of Hyundai, especially Schaumburg Hyubdai, in Ilinois. If anyone has any suggestuions on where to pay at least sticker, like I have ever done that, let alone above for a Hyundai, please let me know as we like the SUV, but not the salesmen, and am a bit leary of the GREAT WARRENTY!

kbecker

Have any of you noticed that the Santa Fe's headlights turn off automatically when you take your key out of the ignition and open the car door?

santefelooker

I just went to Rick Case Hyundai in Sunrise, FL (Ft. Lauderdale) earlier today. They claim to be the 2nd largest Hyundai dealershipp in the country (or maybe it was the Southeast). Either way, they had only about 10 Sante Fe units on the lot (not to good for 2nd largest dealership) and only 3 of them had a V6. They have stickers on the window showing MSRP and then some assorted fees including a $2400 ADM fee. I asked what that is. I was told it is an administrative fee. I thought the dealership was supposed to make its money from charging us more than invoice (and hopefully less than MSRP) but these clowns think they'll charge $2K more for fun AND don't have vehicles in stock. If the 2nd largest dealer doesn't have too many, where the heck are you supposed to buy one at any price? I went to another dealership and they had only four vehicles on the lot. I also test drove the Kia Sportage today (doors were not tinny as some claim but were a bear to close on both vehicles I examined and the power is just non existent) as well as the RAV4 (smaller, which to me is a plus, but at least you can find one as well as parts if you need them). I will consider the RAV4 and the Sante Fe, but those folks at the Hyundai dealerships better figure out how to get some cars in stock.

gray12

We have also settled on the Santa Fe LX AWD but cannot find one in Washington State that is not 300 to 2700 over MSRP. The stock is limited or none at all. Where are these values? Anyone with similar experience? or a better idea?

ndtorres

Hi All,

On December 4, 2000 I reported that my Santa Fe LX had a thumping sound that was apparent every time I braked or took a curve, etc. Took the car to a Hyundai Service Center and they discovered that the "roll back bar" of the transmission was loose. They tightened it up within minutes and I am happy to report that my Santa Fe LX is driving like a charm (has around 600 miles) and I still think it was one of the best decisions I have made and what I paid for it was also a steal.

Hope everyone continues to have good luck with the Santa Fe. Now if Hyundai would get all over those dealers that are trying to scalp people, the whole experience for new buyers would be extraordinary.

By the way, the people in the Tampa Bay, Florida area would be wise to contact Courtesy Hyundai in Tampa and ask for a Patti Lansing. She can come up with some great deals. Tell her Nestor sent you.

Nestor

lpostle

I live in the tampa bay area and I'm looking to buy a GLS Santa Fe. What kind of deal did you get on your Santa Fe? Did they have the car on the lot or did they find one for you? Please share any car buying tips that helped you. I will be glad to see Patti at courtesy if they can get me a car with a price that lets the dealer make some money but I will not pay MSRP. thanks

dustyw_07

After extensive research on different SUVs, I have decided on getting a Sante Fe GLS AWD but I am a little worried about all the stories I hear about the limited availability. I live in central Illinois and I'm not sure how much trouble I would have finding one without overpaying on it. Does anyone have some suggestions on how I would go about finding exactly what I want at a price that is fair? I've just graduated college and this would be my first new vehicle purchase so I'm a little green when it comes to car buying and would appreciate any help. Thanks!!

adamjrae

Just got finished with a 3,000 mile road trip in my Santa Fe 4WD. If you want to know how it went please visit http://www.geocities.com/adamjrae (don't want to clutter up this BB).

jericho_ave

Hi everyone! This is my first posting and I must say that the satisfaction that my new Santa Fe gives me is the reason I'm writing this. Please bear w/me.
I got my pewter GLS AWD with ABS/Traction control option for $21,489. I live here in NJ and the sticker price was $22,089. It included the crossrail and carpeted floormat which I could have lived without but it was factory installed so I had to take it.
Like other people on this forum, I was dead set on getting the Tribute. That is until I've read the complaints from owners, and seeing it and driving it for myself. As luck would have it, the Mazda Dealer (Maxon) here in NJ also sells Hyundai, and I got my first look on the SantaFe. I was impressed at the value it offered for the price but since I haven't researched anything about it, and it being a Hyundai, I had my reservations. So when I got home, I checked out
this forum, read as much info I could find about the Santa Fe and compared it side by side with the Tribute. And it was a no brainer after that. I returned to the dealer the following week having the ideal price in my mind which is close to Edmunds TMV. I went to three dealers that day. The words of the sales manager on the first one was "I'm not going to give it $1 below sticker. It's either you go with the sticker price or more or you go to that door.". I'd give you one guess where I went. The next dealer was much better, they were offering a black GLS that was not on the lot, for 600 off the sticker. I really love it in pewter so I told them I'd get back to them if I can't find it anywhere. The third was was marking the price with upto $1500 - $2K Adjusted Market Value. I didn't bother to talk to the sales people there.
Then I started shopping thru the internet, I contacted dealers thru their website, e-mailed them and talked to them thru the phone. I found a dealer, about an hour a half drive from my place
that has my Santa Fe, right color and options. It's Colonial Hyundai in Trenton, the guy was Jimmy. We agreed on the price over the phone, it was a hassle and haggle free experience for me. He even helped me with my insurance. The day I picked it up was his day off but he came in for a few hours just to meet me there and finish the deal. Thanks for a great service Jimmy.
So here I am, a happy man with the car I like. It's got 1000 miles on it, averaging 21MPG combined city and highway driving. Ride is smooth, looks are great, sufficient power and generous cargo room. All my friends who've seen are impressed and they can't believe how much I'm paying for it. I've had two other drivers who blew their horns on me to get my attention to ask how much and how good it is.

The light went green so I just shouted out the price and gave them a two thumbs up sign.

vocus

I test drove a 4-cylinder GL FWD automatic on Saturday. The front seat room was terrible for me! I am 6'3, and my legs were almost against the dashboard. My head was almost touching the sunvisor. I played around with the height adjustments and all on the seats, but it didn't help any. I am really mad now, because I like the SF alot. But too bad I guess...

adamjrae

focus, Is it possible that the Drivers seat adjustments were set on Hi? On the side of the drivers seat there are 2 knobs. knob 1 controls height for the front of the seat, knob controls height for the rear of the seat. Were both of them down?

vocus

Yes, I checked both of them. They weren't all the way down, because I didn't want them that way. They were where I felt comfortable sitting, but I was way too close to the dash and headliner. The height thing still doesn't change the legroom problem though. It sucks!

bpatenaude

I just signed on the dotted line for my Santa Fe LX 2WD. It just got off the truck this morning, so it is being cleaned up and delivered this afternoon.

It seems like this vehicle has caught on in a big way. I am in Dallas and out of 6 dealerships, there are only about 6 LX out there. I was at my 4th dealership when I found what I wanted (Nordic White). I did pay MSRP of 21,194. All things considered, think it is still an excellent value. I am assuming that the "market adjustment" beast is lurking around the corner in this market, so am OK with sticker.

Thanks to everyone for all the feed back on this board, it really helped with my decision to buy the Santa Fe I'll report back after driving mine for a couple of weeks.

camacle

I used extreme motors in Bloomington. They did a very nice job finding and ordering the Santa Fe I wanted (a pewter GLS FWD). It took them about 3 weeks to get it from the port in Portland Oregon. I paid MSRP. I have been unable to find anyone willing to deal for less in Central Illinois at this time. Perhaps that will change, but at least Extreme did not put on any add ons or additional charges. Good luck.

dustyw_07

Hey, thanks for the advice. I actually live in Bloomington so that is good to know. Do you have a specific salesperson that you would recommend? You can email me directly at wilsond@mama.indstate.edu. Thanks!

radkins6

Which salesperson did you work with at Edwards Archer when you purchased your Santa Fe? It sounds like you were treated very well, and I'd like to talk to that person, too.

Thanks for all your input!

Rick Adkins

emykay

I'm in Dallas also, looking for a Santa Fe. I want to avoid Big Billy Barrett at all cost. Where did you shop?

stuckinmn1

We decided to take the plunge and bought a Santa Fe LX in 'Black Obsidian.' We added a very thin, simple gray metallic pinstripe that perfectly matches the lower body cladding: very cool. It looks like it's dressed up in an elegant pinstripe suit! We also took the cross rails for the roof rack, floor mats, cargo mat and added a very nice, dealer installed power moonroof. So far the moonroof does not appear to have changed the solidity of this vehicle (that's a compliment!) and there has been no increase in wind noise or leaks. Love the heated seats and am glad we went with the (admittedly stiff looking) leather. We're getting 19-20 MPG in mixed city/highway driving. This thing handles deep snow VERY well and the heater works like an oven.

Very pleased with the dealer so far (White Bear Lake Superstore in White Bear Lake, MN). Our salesman Brian D. was extremely patient with us (we've been coming in for 5 months!) and gave us a fair deal. More importantly, we we did not feel like we needed to bathe after dealing (which has been my previous experience with car dealers). So far we are DELIGHTED with this truck! 700 miles so far and we'll be taking it across country in the next few weeks.

By the way, I'm just over 6'4" and not of a wimpy build and I'm perfectly comfortable in this vehicle. Even with the moonroof I can wear a baseball cap. I don't like sitting too close to the steering wheel but this seems to be a perfect fit for me.

I'm Truly Amazed! Driving IS believing!

bpatenaude

I bought mine at Freeman Hyundai in Irving...off 183 across from Texas Stadium. I was at Big Billy when I called Freeman... was not wild about their sales staff at all. When I told the sales man I initially was interested in a Tribute, but switched to a Santa Fe due to all the Tribute problem he kinda went off on me.... Big Billy also sells Mazdas...

I worked with Henry (can't remember his last name, but ask for him) Like I said, wasn't able to get any off sticker, but at least they don't add in any advertising fee or other "dealer installed" forced options.

Drove mine all day today.... it has a GREAT ride. No problems with "soft" felling breaks and not vibration at 55-65.....Had 3 people stop me an ask me all about the car...it really is a head turner.

Good luck!

grc4

Hi All:

Just got our manta be GAS FAD tonight. It appears to be a great SUB and does well in the snow. Has anyone bought the Mud Guards yet? With the anti skid material being put on the road, I was still hoping to have paint on the body when I got home. Also, I notice that the accessories catalog has a optional wood grain add on that look great in the catalog but wondering how it look installed. All comments are welcome. Thanks

grc4

Hi All:

Just got our Santa Fe GLS FWD tonight. It appears to be a great SUV and does well
in the snow. Has anyone bought the Mud Guards yet? With the anti skid material
being put on the road, I was still hoping to have paint on the body when I got home.
Also, I notice that the accessories catalog has a optional wood grain add on that look
great in the catalog but wondering how it look installed. All comments are welcome.
Thanks

santefelooker

A few people have commented about the soft brakes (with one recent exception). I agree that they are spongy, but I notice that when I travel for work, I rent cars of all brands and models, but rental car agencies always have shockingly sensitive breaks on their cars. How do they do that? When I drive the same models that are not rented, the breaks are not nearly as tight. Anyone know the rental car agency secret and whether it would work on a Sante Fe?

snowman2596

I think our salesman's name was John Harris, but I'll have to look at the paperwork to make absolutely sure for you. Sorry, but I'm terrible with names. I've never been so glad to have a new vehicle in my life. After all the snow we've gotten lately, our GLS AWD has handled it beautifully. Definitely a step up from our Blazer.

vocus

I don't know why the vehicle felt so tight to me in the front though. I even played with the seat controls and tried two different ones (a GL and an LX) to no avail. I am really mad, because I loved the drive and all of the SF and looked forward to owning one in the future.

radkins6

Thanks for the info. I appreciate it. Our weather has been incredible, hasn't it? I can't remember the last time it was like this. Let me know for sure on the salespersons name.

Thanks again!

Rick Adkins