Of course , the Lexus has more features, more power, more everything! For $20,000 more it damn well better! That $20,000 invested for 7 years or so may be more like $30,000 to $40,000 for those extra's. Is it worth it? I paid cash for my Santa Fe GLS AWD and if I really wanted to could pay cash for a Lexus but I have better things to do with my money!
We were actually ready to buy a Jeep GC Limited instead of the Santa Fe at first (wanted more power, luxury, better 4wd system), that is until we looked at both the Insurance Institute and Government crash test results. What a piece of crap. And no active control systems.
Hope the SF holds up in a crash or helps you avoid one.
"Given a choice between the above three vehicles (and I had my choice) #1 Santa Fe, #2 Tribute. You can keep the Ford Excuse."
the trib and Escape are identical. except for some body moulding and a few minor componets they are exactly the same. Even the folks in the Trib Escape discussions agree on this (for the most part). They are built on the same line in the same plant in Claycomo MO.
If you have to justify $40 grand for "Saftey" go ahead. If you were really really a saftey nut then you would buy only Mercedes Benz products which are the most engineered autos in the world.
I have had several people mistake my Sante Fe for a Lexus at first glance. And I like the Lexus RX I just can't spend that kind of money.
Maybe Santa Fe owners just consider themselves better drivers so we don't require all of that extra safety equipment we could have gotten in a Lexus. Personally I never even consider crash tests when looking at a vehicle. I look at style, performance, comfort and price. This process has served me well for the 30 accident free years that I have been driving.
Hmmm....guess I kicked over an anthill. I'd say that probably everyone reading these posts has "woken up and smelled the motor oil" (well, almost everyone) and nobody here believes for a skinny minute that the Santa Fe approaches the Lexus RX in the quality arena. The focus was on the quality concerns about Hyundai. The point in pulling the singular post was not to disparage Lexus...it was to point out that even $40,000 automobiles (or $38,000...what a savings!)can have mechanical problems.
As for reality checks, most of the folks on this board are very positive, very much in touch with themselves and reality, and don't misinterpret posts and respond as if they had sat naked on a bed of poison ivy. Try a little decaf man!
I would think folks that are truly happy with their Lexus purchase would spend their energy focusing on the Lexus board and higlighting the positives about that great purchase (and tremendous savings!) they made.
We bought ours from Hyundai of Glendale (Milwaukee suburb) from Kelly - very nice lady. Sadly, I could not get them below MSRP but for what other SUVs are going for, I think we got a pretty good deal. I was hoping to buy one in the silver/pewter color but glad we got the Merlot - VERY SHARP LOOKING!!
I haven't bought my SF but am searching for one. Easier said than done. I was wondering if anyone out there could give me an objective comparison between the acceleration of the SF and acceleration of other suvs, like Blazers. 180 hp sounds good but I hear alot of negativity in every review about poor performance. Is this really true or is this one of those things only critics notice?
Well, I checked the Highway Loss Data Institute's data on injury and collision rates up to 1997 and the safest 4 dr. car is the Buick Roadmaster and the safest Mid-size SUV is the GMC Yukon!
So, therefore maybe the new Buick mid-sized SUV will be the safest vehicle ever made!
I've been reading alot of negatives about the performance of the V-6. Now I don't drive the Santa Fe that often as it's my wife's and she rarely lets me drive it. I had it today as it was due for it's first oil change at 3,700 miles. She drives it everyday and has never complained about the performance. For the area we live in, mostly flat roads, I feel the performance is more than adequate. If I lived in a mountainous area and routinely carried passengers I would want more power.
Back at post #328 the following towing capabilities and limits were posted:
CAUTION: The following specifications are recommended when towing a trailer. The loaded trailer weight cannot safely excced the values shown below: 1a. Engine -2.4(2WD) w/brake - Max Trailer=1200lbs Max Tongue=120lbs 1b. Engine -2.7(2WD) w/brake - Max Trailer=2700lbs Max Tongue=270lbs 2a. Engine -2.4(2WD) w/o brake - Max Trailer=1000lbs Max Tongue=100lbs 2b. Engine -2.7(2WD) w/o brake - Max Trailer=1200lbs Max Tongue=120lbs 2c. Engine -2.7(4WD) w/o brake - Max Trailer=1200lbs Max Tongue=120lbs 3a. Engine -2.4(2WD) w/o brake+ABS - Max Trailer=1200lbs Max Tongue=120lbs 3b. Engine -2.7(2WD) w/o brake+ABS - Max Trailer=1500lbs Max Tongue=150lbs 3c. Engine -2.7(4WD) w/o brake+ABS - Max Trailer=1500lbs Max Tongue=150lbs
According to this, an LX 4WD ABS can tow 1500 lbs., while any 2.7 2WD w/out ABS can tow 2700 lbs. as long as there are trailer brakes. Does it seem to anyone else that the concern seems to be more the ability to stop the trailer than the ability to actually tow it? I'm considering an LX 4WD ABS and am currently towing a double jetski trailer with my Grand Cherokee. Now, two three seat jetskis fully loaded probably weigh in at 1200 lbs. plus maybe 400 - 500 lbs for the trailer. That's pushing 1500lbs. a little over the limit. Any thoughts or experience on whether I'll have trouble starting - or just stopping. I can't beleive a SF with 4 wheel discs and ABS would have trouble stopping a couple of jetskis, yet I can't believe Hyundai expects anyone to put trailer brakes on a jetski trailer. Any thoughts?
I really do not know anything about towing a trailer, but, I agree that stopping seems to be the issue. I suspect it has to do with the construction of the Santa Fe. It can pull a 2700 lbs trailer okay but stopping anything over 1500 lbs w/o brakes could be a problem structurally. From what I understand the Santa Fe has a unibody construction. Unlike most other SUV's that have been built on a truck frame. Thus, the Santa Fe probably cannot handle the stress of stopping a trailer without any assistance. This is my uneducated opinion and I could be completely wrong.
Drove by the local Hyundai dealer in Fall River, MA the other day. I noticed a BUNCH of used non-Hyundai SUVs (a CR-V, several Jeeps, a Rav4 etc). I think that speaks volumes that the perception of Hyundai has improved their quality, and positively shouts about how good the Santa Fe really is. When I was there shopping for a SF (right after they arrived here in October), they had almost no used SUVs on the lot.
I bought a Subaru Forester S+ in November, but the SF was a VERY close second. Had the MPG on the v6 been better, I'd probably be driving one right now (I have a 130-mile round-trip commute). So, I guess this is an endorsement of the Santa Fe from someone who DIDN'T buy one.
While I disagree with tonychris' attitude and a lot of what he says, I do agree with his idea about having safety very high on his list of priorities. When I made my purchase, the SF had no safety data. The Forester performs REALLY well on just about every crash test, and the lower center of gravity and superior AWD system made me feel safe putting my two babies and wife into it. My priorities are roughly: how enjoyable is it to drive, safety, functionality, looks.
I am an offroader and am looking at the Santa Fe. I understand that the real emphasis of this SUV is not real offroading. ***** But has anybody taken it to the test and what is it capable of??? Besides just the dirt road, what about no road at all, Upgrades with lots of loose rock mud etc.... ?????? ***** Has anyone seen a skid plate option for the underbody protection of the Santa Fe????
**Or will I need to stick with the Lower gear transfer case (currently own a Chevy Blazer)for real off roading which the Santa Fe doesn't offer???
**** What about the 17" chrome 10 spoke tires ???? ** When will they be available as option on new Santa Fe ??????
I don't think the low towing capacities are a result of this SUV using Unibody construction. The Tribute/Escape are also Unibody SUV's and as I stated in a previous post (329 I think), the V6 version can tow 2000, and with the addition of the towing package (engine oil cooler?) it can tow 3500 lbs, which would suit most boaters needs just fine. I too have trouble believing the conservative towing capacities of the Santa Fe. Any thoughts
In the owners manual it states that the Sante Fe is not to be used for offroad activities. And your road assistance protection is no good. If you want to go offroading this would not be the SUV for it. Of course neither would the RX300, Highlander, Navigator, etc...
Just an FYI for anyone experiencing the following: slow gas fill-ups and frozen front locks. Just had the fuel vent valve replaced today which is supposed to allow normal fill-ups now. Will find-out next time I fill-up. Also, Hyundai is re-designing the front door actuator/cable assemblies and the dealer told me there would be a recall or at least a service bulletin to have these fixed when the time comes.
Interestingly, had a Tribute as a rental vehicle and all I can say is CHEAP. The doors sounded like they would disintegrate if closed too hard. And very uncomfortable.
I am a prefessional forester with a GLS V6 and so far so good on logging roads, etc. This thing about off roading is a misnomer. There are very few places you can take any vehicle "off" road, that is no road , never a road. In the southern US and Eastern US the woods is full of trees, brush, etc. that will not allow a vehicle to leave the "road". The barren western desert will allow that but how many of us go there? Most people mean, bad roads, mud, ruts ets. when they are saying off raod. The santa fe as most SUV's will handle that type of thing fine. If you want to go to the desert and really "off road" over big rocks and into washed out canyons, etc. then get a Jeep, Land Cruiser etc. But on your average rough old logging road, field road etc. those vehicles are overkill. Bottom line, the average true "off road" SUV has capabilities that most owners will never come close to using. Even the Santa Fe AWD has some capabilites that most owners will not utilize.
Well, I went ahead and bought a Santa Fe GLS 2WD, thanks in part to the positive vibes on this message board. Most of the "competition" has much more negative reports.. maybe higher expectations.
For those of you having trouble paying less than MSRP, try southern california... I got three quotes on the internet for $500-$1,000 UNDER MSRP... hard to believe they would all be bogus...
On my final test drive I checked for all the problems posted here... rear end vibration.. faulty clock... soft brakes... lack of acceleration/power... and happy to report all failed to materialize. Got 400 miles on it so far and nothing to complain about. No off roading or towing for me... first fill-up took 16.1 gallons, so "non-fill" fill not a problem for me either.
I have had some experience with Hyundai resale, and it's all sadly true. Toyota, VW dealers don't even want to discuss them, and the Toyota guy is a friend of mine. "Who's going to buy a late model used one when the warranties on new ones are so much better"... and an old one, still has the onus of old. Even my Santa Fe dealer hemmed and hawed... said he could pick one up at auction for better price... we "Compromised" since I didn't want to try to sell a Hyundai privately.
Hyundai apparently even less popular in southern california than anywhere else... must be the "expert" car crazies out there... oh well, here's one who rolled the dice at the $20K and under table" ... it will take 5 years to see how I did.
But in the short term, the vehicle is a gem. I've had vans, trucks, Millenias, station wagons, even a Fiat Spyder.. and this is the best fit yet. Let's hope they sell a bunch and the values hold up.
Thanks so much for the information. While I don't anticipate getting rid of my Santa Fe for the bulk of the extended warranty we got with it (I don't plan on trading in for at least 5-8 yrs.), its nice to know that Hyundai will have something available with a little more cargo room. That has probably been my wife's one and only complaint about the Santa Fe. I wouldn't mind a few extra square inches to stuff suitcases into myself, but I'm not going to complain about my truck.
As for the options, I agree with you that Hyundai is probably still trying to erase a huge bad PR scar left over from the 80's. It seems Americans have terrible collective memory except for things like this. Anyway, while getting on better public relations footing with the American consumer is, and probably should be, Hyundai's first priority, it would be nice to see a few extra niceties on the options list on this side of the ocean. And a longer options list matched with the great list of standard equipment and the lower price might just go a long way in opening up the American market to Hyundai once again.
***BUY INFO*** If anyone want to buy a Santa Fe! Please use Liquidprice.com and/or Greenlight.com, or other web site to buy the car and color that meet your need. I use Liquidprice.com and and the dealer offer the car that I wanted. Afterward I contact the dealer with the price they offer. Thank to Randy Hall at Doten Automobile Hyundai, Richmond, California.
***Compare*** There is nothing to compare the Sant Fe with any other vehicle. There is so much different people out there and have different hobbies. We should not say anything bad about other manufacture vehicles. Let's say a little bit about the Santa Fe versus the Lexus RX300. Yes! That's right for anyone to say buy 2 SF for the price of 1 RX300. However, RX300 built with much more options, etc.. For those who have money and being able to afford over $40k then worth to buy the RX300. For over $50k look into BMW or Mercedes.
***Reliability Info*** Here is a trick about why Luxury manufacture like Lexus, Mercedes, BMW, etc.that carried the name with reliable reputation. Every manufacture can do the same. Most of the Luxury cars are to built with expensive options and carry good brand name. The trick is that most of these luxury car are to built in a way that you can not maintenance yourself. Look at the User Manual and you know what I mean. Most of these luxury class vehicle you have to bring the car in the Dealer Service to maintenance the car. That's why the car is mostly work after you ride out of the service place. Most of these car even have computer check to see what to inspect. But money talk....The Santa Fe that I have is great. I have already ordered 6 oil filters, 3 air filters, Brake pads, fuel filters, etc.for the use in the future. Just follow the User Manual and inspect yourself and save a Million... VERY IMPORTANT-Reliable are all depend on the driver and road condition where they live and/or drive. Yes! There is some vehicles that are recall but free of charge to fix. That's okay. Not everyone is perfect.
***Hyundai Options*** You can buy nearly all of the Hyundai Manufacture products that available in Korea but not in U.S. Just simply visit HDkautosport.com and order the options that you need for your Hyundai, Daewood, & Kia vehicle.
***My Santa FE*** I like the Nordic White Santa Fe! Why? Only the white SF have the silver body cladding and rest of the other colors have the gray body cladding. Also, the white color is better for the summer time if you have leather seats. The silver body cladding is much nicer than the gray to me. I lived in San Francisco and I would really like to ride the AWD vehicle on rainy and foggy condition. I go to ski sometime in Christmas season with my friends and it is nice to ride a vehicle with AWD, ABS, and Traction Control to handle the icy and snow road. More important to have the Mirrors Defroster to clear out your view while driving. With the same button it will clear the Mirrors and the Rear Windows as well. This vehicle have a small V6 engine but there is the advantage and disadvantage about this vehicle. Less power to accelerate but save a little of gas and maintenance are easily to work around the engine. What is import to you?
***My Santa Fe Price*** I paid $24980 Out the Door for my Santa Fe LX-AWD-V6-White Fully Loaded with Options 13. My budget was $28500 to spend for a new Mid-Size SUV. This car save me a lots of money. With the extra money I added the following feature (options) for my car. Wood Dash Trim, Wood Wider Rear View Mirror, Chrome Front Grill Protector, Chrome Side Steps, Chrome Rear Bumper Protector, Chrome Window Visors, Chrome Pano Mirrors, Blue Headlight Bulbs, Two Lumbar Support, Gauge Face Sport, Chrome Exchaust Tips, Silver Pedal Cover, Blind Spots Mirror inside window, Digital Multimeter System, Automatic Climate Control, Much Better Stereo System, Front Sway-Strut Bar, Radar Detector, Trunk Cargo Liner, All Season Mats, 6 Oil Filters, 3 Air filters, 1 Fuel Filter. Any more info please send me an email at travis@y2kcatalogs.com.
I'm glad to see all the Santa Fe owners happy their Santa Fe. The bulliten board is growing quite quickly. Everyday I come here and there are a ton of posts. I've had my GLS 4WD ABS/Traction control since October 7, 2000 with over 7,000 miles. We have had no major problems and hopefully we won't. One thing I noticed is when the engine is cold it can take 1-3 seconds for the car to get into drive. Has any other 4WD V6 owners experienced this? Is it just mine or is it normal? If you are thinking about buying a Santa Fe please visit my web site www.geocities.com/adamjrae I have many photos and a review of a 3,000 mile round trip with my family.
I've had my 4WD GLS now for about a week and can say that under this cold weather here in MTL, Canada it is reacting very well. Great in snow, slush & ice. It does take a second or two to get into gear but I would say it's normal.
The only problems I've had so far is that the passenger leather seat as a defect. The leather is all dried up on one side and ready to crack. The dealer is acknowledging the fact and looking into it. The other is when I fuel up, the gas spits out when it is full without any warning...
Gas consumption is very high so far but I only have 700km. It should get better over time.
Got a 4WD GLS, Canadian Model. Just love it. Only 1200 km so far and my gas consumption is pretty high too; however it is normal with a new vehicle and the cold weather does not help.
I put Bridgestone Winter Dueler tires on and this thing handles snow, slush and ice like a snowmobile! Seriously, it handles slippery conditions very well; the shiftronic is very usefull in those conditions. It handles very neutral, without excessive under or oversteer.
I had a CR-V for 4 years and it was too a very nice vehicle but I got tired of going trough the mountains fully loaded with a 2L engine. It was very reliable however and it retained more than 50% of it's original value after 4 years and 115,000 km.
The Santa Fe has better traction in the snow, is more comfortable, has obviously more power, is better equipped and is roomier. The transmission is also smoother on the Santa Fe.
I look forward to many years of fun with my Santa Fe.
PS: I road tested the MDX, the RX-300 and the Volvo XC which were all very nice (and on some aspects nicer) but I could not justify paying 50% more for these vehicles altough I could afford any of them.
Please excuse the ignorance of my post - but could some of you please explain how you use the manual transmission? I have never owned a manual and have been itching to move the gearshift of my SF over to the right but haven't the slightest idea how the shiftronic transmission works. They highlight it in the sales brochure so I'm thinking that it might come in handy if I knew what it was supposed to do.
My wife and I test drove the SF when they first came out last year and was impressed with the size and ride. Price was well below that of a comparable CR-V, RAV4 and a small Tracker. We weren't in a hurry, since I was looking for a small truck at the time, took advantage of GM 0% on an S-10. Anyhow, the wife decided she was ready to trade in her "southern born" Taurus for something that handles the Ohio weather. After test driving everything out there and being budget minded, she decided on the Sante FE. At first it was the GLS AWD, but decided the LX AWD, Blue, Gray Leather, package #13, was what she really wanted. After all was said and done, we're paying $22,600. Offered 2% over invoice, then added in shipping and I nixed the $595 advertisement fee, based on inputs from previous posts. Purchased at Jeff Wylers AutoMall, Springfield, OH. Thanks to all of you for the positive inputs and we'll let you know how much we enjoy our new SF.
You're 100% correct andes11. In the morning or if I let it sit for over I say 30 minutes. I don't think it's a problem but it sure is annoying when you are trying to back up and some is waiting for your spot and you're in a hurry. I took it in and the service said it's within specs.......I didn't know they had specs of how long it takes to get into park :-) Anyway it's been documented with the Service Center. Are you having the same problem? What engine/2-4WD do you have?
I am looking at a manta be GAS AWD, mainly because the warranty looks pretty good, I put in anywhere between 35000 to 38000 miles a year. What should I expect to pay for this baby equipped with option # 11, carpeted floor mat and Traction Control. Any input is welcome
Be careful with the spell check. Many times I whipped through the spell check too fast and Santa becomes manta, fe becomes be, and so on. Anyway wcharles go to www.geocities.com/adamjrae and there is a scan of my window sticker there. It's a GLS 4WD ABS/Traction Control and carpeted car mats. Say $21,909
no i don't have a SF...so the dealer said it's within specs and i presume they checked for any malfunction code in the computer? good thing you have a proof of service visit.
I bought my Santa Fe 3 months ago (November) in Vancouver, BC, Canada. After spending 1 month on research & test drives. I finally decide I had(or Must) go for Santa Fe. The reason is simple(common sense)- not Santa Fe is perfect, is because other choices made me have to give up. I already have the most powerful looking SUV in the whole world - Dodge Durango 5.9L in my garage. Its cost me CDN$45K before taxes. Now I want to buy a SUV for my wife to work (we live up in a mountain very sloppy). I want something smaller but at least same luxury, leathers seat, sporty shape, new look... etc. for under CND$30K
For under CDN$30K The road test results. 1)Ford Escape - The noise & cheap interiors & old ugly angular shape body made me run away after test. Also, Ford have poor recall & resell history. Look at what happen in the Ford Exploror. I forget it. 2)Mazda Tribute - Same product like Escape. Ford change the outside of the body a little bit want to fool the cusumers. I can see they use a Ford Tranny, not mazda. The terrible low clearance under body made you in deep trouble during Heavy snow and of course offroad, warning! Don't drive it off road. I'd rather buy a MPV (seat 7) than Tribute. Don't let the shiny Mazda Logo in the car body fool you. Those shinny Logo is attractive but not worth what you pay. I forget it. 3) Subaru Forester - Body Too low, just like a car, if i like this kind of suv i will prefer a acura or honda. Their engines is probably more reliable than Subaru. I forget it.
4) Santa Fe - The supreme comfort I ever feel in my whole life, so luxury & beautyful all in & out, I paid cdn$29,000 (Asking sticker price cdn$31,900 plus freight & tax) fully loaded 4WD GLS Silver body color. Before xmas, We go for a trip in Rocky mountain, & also there is a heavy snow fall in our city. This car handling very well (I have 20 year driving experience in GMC, Acura, Honda, BMW, BENZ, Durango). Anything functioning well - ABS, traction & Slip controls..etc. The gas milage is very good. I am not so lucky like US customer. Canadian Model only come w/ 6 years & 100,000km warranty but it is still the best in canadian market. It made me don't worry about the engine.
One more thing to mention. Don't let the car mazagine testing reports fool you. They are basically BIAS - they might wrote a story for their big advertiser. The few second difference in acceleration is not realistic to our real life. Different test person can easily response slower or faster in few seconds. Test drive by yourself is the smartest way to purchase any car. Gasoline engine will eventually replace by electric car in the next decade, the performance of the gasoline engine almost go to the extreme, if the car maker can price us$20K you don't have to worry the engine, you paid what you get.
I think if not because of the cheap labor & money exchange, the Santa Fe definitely is underprice.
So far, I real enjoy this car, and my community have at least close to a dozen people already driving this beauty. I don't care who is the manufacture - american or japanese or korean, I hope more nice car like Santa Fe will show in the near Future.
I know several people have posted about vibration problems on their Santa Fe's. How bad is the vibration? Ours vibrates a little when accelerating or decelerating around 60 mph.
The vibration is not bad and only noticeable to the driver. Also it does not vibrate at a steady speed.
Other than this we really like our Santa Fe, but we only have 400 miles on it and only time can tell.
To answer Andes11, this situation happened at two different gas stations and being filled up once by my wife and myself. The dealer asked me if we put the nozzle all the way in... have been filling cars now for 35 years !! I also have read someone else on this site having the same problem.. They recommend slowing down towards the end of your fill up.!!..
If someone else is having this problem, please let me know..
I was wondering if anyone knows that if I replace my radio/CD player with one that has a little more 'umph' to it, will that void any part of the warranty other than the radio? I looked tonight at several units that will fit the Santa Fe but don't know if I should go thru with it?
Also, has anyone found any of these winter floor mats that fit fairly well in the Santa Fe? I would like to save the carpeted ones for better weather!
Been reading the posts here for a while and I'm looking to probably buy a manta be in the next month. Is there anyone in the Central Florida area(Orlando,Tamp,Gainesville area)that can recommend a good dealership for price and has a selection of them?Thanks for the read! Steve
I would try two more different gas stations...some of these pumps' flow rate is way too high and worn nozzle holes exacerbate the problem. If the problem persists, have the dealer check the ORVR(On-vehicle Refueling Vapor Recovery) system in the tank, especially the fuel cut-off valve. This is US-mandated pollution control system and dosen't work well w/ some pumps' recovery system. The spec is very tight...you'll see more of this refueling problem as all light vehicles sold in the US are required to be fitted w/ this vapor recovery system effective 2000 model year.
The only thing the Santa Fe doesn't have over, for example, the Mazda Tribute and the Ford Escape is "name brand". Unfortunately, Hyundai still suffers some from a "lower end" reputation. However, in reality, we test drove and researched the heck out of all three of these vehicles - including numerous reviews and actual consumer testimonies - and then bought the Santa Fe. We are completely satisfied with our choice in every respect (yes, its less powerful than the Tribute, but it meets our needs; besides, it actually runs well - something you can't count on with the Tribute and Escape). It has a rich, heavy feel and a nice interior. It drives smooth. We like the softer curves and lines. It looks compact on the outside, but is very roomy on the inside. The warranty and roadside assistance program (standard) is unbeatable by far. And, it is less expensive than the so-called "higher end" brands. Maybe we will suffer some upon resale. But, we plan to drive it a long time - and, if things keep going as they are - that should be a pleasurable experience.
Kenny, we share the same view about this vehicle. I test drove (and could have afforded) the MDX, the RX-300 and the Volvo XC but finally went for the Santa Fe for the reasons you just mentionned. On top of that, I just love the shiftronic shifter (which I first tried in the Volvo) for drivng on snow and in the mountains.
Has anyone noticed how negative the comments are getting on MSN CarPoints Consumer Reviews? It would scare me off if I were just starting to look. Do you think they are honest reviews? For some reason, I think people are trying to sabotage the board over there. I'd like to see more accurate reviews posted.
If anyone need the ALL SEASON FLOOR MATS AND ALSO THE TRUNK COVER-LINER. Please visit www.weathertech.com or www.macneilauto.com/store. If anyone need the dash cover and real wood dash trim with 17 pieces then please visit or order from www.dashcover.com. If anyone need to upgrade the stereo manucfacture stereo system then please visit www.hdkautosport.com or ask your local dealer (they just recently have this product come in U.S. last week).
Vibration: All new vehicle have an automatic cooling engine system. Notice the Santa Fe Hot/Cold Gauge. They are below the Middle, Most of the vehicle are right at the Middle. The cooling engine system really made the Santa Fe engine last longer according to me. The engine won't burn much and it should last longer. That's why I think Hyundai are willing to give a better warranty. Vibration affect when the automatic colling engine break in. I have driven RAV4, Celica, other. They have this problem too, but only happen in a second or so only. That should be very normal.
Shifttronic Gear: Follow the User Manual with the correct miles using on each individual Shiftronic Gear. This way you can keep the transmission last longer. If effort for more power when driving at higher speed use the 3 gear for a second or soo but don't use it long for a temporary using higher RPM. This will boost your car a little better in acceleration. Work similar to most car with an Overdrive button. Santa have an automatic Overdrive when the car boost on the 4 gear.
Any question please contact me at travis@y2kcatalogs.com
I live in Michigan, the dealer from your post "Jeff Wylers AutoMall, Springfield, OH" is about 250 miles away. However, the price in MI is much higher to what you are paying. Could you please share the sales person's name. Thank you in advance.
It may be that the resale will not be that great on the SF. Depends on hw well they do in the next few years. May become the hot thing to have, may not. I can tell you this. I bought my GLS to rplace my 1993 Jeep Grand Cherokee. It was a great SUV, no problems with it and I was told over and over you will get great resal with a Jeep. I ran ads three times for 3 weeks in two different newsppaers, put a display on the Jeep faxed people I knew, finally got one offer for $6000 whcih I took. I paid $25000 for it so that is about 25% aver 7 years and 96000 miles. Is that a great resale, doesn't seem so? Bottom line, vehicles are expenses, not investments, use it, enjoy it and get what you can when you get rid of.
The guy buy & then want to sell his SF story on MN Car Points Consumer Reviews is so silly. The message is probably posted by a Hyundai's Competitor, who know? to scare consumer away from Hyundai SF, because they know it is the only way or easiest way to destroy Hyundai SF reputation! They are very smart (They think)!!! But most people is smarter than the guy who posted that message. If he really think he is a victim. Blame on himself, do not blame on Hyundai, or dealer (The dealers are perfectly correct to give him a very low, low ,low price for a brand new car with no resale history) So sorry he can not wait for couple of years(or even one year) for the true resale value of Santa Fe. I don't think it is true forester, Escape & Tribute have good resale values, who will buy a second hand car brand new car with just 10 or 20% off the dealer. Most people can afford these cars is still middle class or rich people. I have a friend buy & sell a brand new BMX in 2 months loss CDN$20K, isn't people tell you BMW resale value is good? Think about it! "The more hurry that u want to sell something, the buyer will offer you less $$$!" it is always true! not only to SF, BMW too!
The Santa Fe reviews on MSN Carpoint were almost flawless until about a week ago, when someone with an apparent ax to grind, started submitting numerous negative reviews about the Santa Fe.
The overall rating had been about 9.7 - 9.8 before this guy showed up, and is now down to 8.6.
If you read the postings, it is fairly obvious they were written by the same person, with the same bad sentence structure, and grammar.
This person claims everything from having blown TWO engines, and broken an engine mount, to having TOTALED one in a 5MPH crash, with serious injuries! Gee, where was he posting from, the hospital?
His main complaint seems to be the lack of resale value. He (assuming it even IS a he) never really seems to cite any valid complaints, just broad assertions.
I have complained to MSN, and gotten an electronic form letter in response.
It's too bad, because a lot of people look at these reviews before purchasing a vehicle.
For what it is worth, I have a new LX V6 AWD, with pkg. 13, and other than stiff wiper blades and a fairly deaf FM tuner, it has been flawless so far, at 700 miles.
Initial mileage (first two fill-ups) during break-in, at about 12 degrees F. is 21 MPG, mostly highway.
No problems yet with vibration, 'soft'brakes, getting in gear when cold, gas filling or blinking clock display.
One thing that did throw me for a loop was the keyless entry. If you unlock the Santa Fe with the remote, and do not open any doors, the vehicle will re-lock itself after 30 seconds. This is not mentioned in the owner's manual, and it took my noticing the exact 30 second time frame to deduce this must be normal.
All in all, I am very satisfied thus far. I would highly recommend this vehicle, and I pity the people who will be misled by the MSN imposter.
Does anyone know when HyundaiUSA will be launching their my hyundai section on their website. I would like to sign up there becase I think it would be another good area, in addition to here, to get information, ideas and stories about the Santa Fe. Thanks.
For what its worth, we did a lot of research before buying the Santa Fe, and the great reviews have proved valid. I think the car -especially given the price - deserves the 9+ratings.
Comments
We were actually ready to buy a Jeep GC Limited instead of the Santa Fe at first (wanted more power, luxury, better 4wd system), that is until we looked at both the Insurance Institute and Government crash test results. What a piece of crap. And no active control systems.
Hope the SF holds up in a crash or helps you avoid one.
the trib and Escape are identical. except for some body moulding and a few minor componets they are exactly the same. Even the folks in the Trib Escape discussions agree on this (for the most part). They are built on the same line in the same plant in Claycomo MO.
If you have to justify $40 grand for "Saftey" go ahead. If you were really really a saftey nut then you would buy only Mercedes Benz products which are the most engineered autos in the world.
I have had several people mistake my Sante Fe for a Lexus at first glance. And I like the Lexus RX I just can't spend that kind of money.
As for reality checks, most of the folks on this board are very positive, very much in touch with themselves and reality, and don't misinterpret posts and respond as if they had sat naked on a bed of poison ivy. Try a little decaf man!
I would think folks that are truly happy with their Lexus purchase would spend their energy focusing on the Lexus board and higlighting the positives about that great purchase (and tremendous savings!) they made.
But then...I'm just a bonehead.
So, therefore maybe the new Buick mid-sized SUV will be the safest vehicle ever made!
She drives it everyday and has never complained about the performance. For the area we live in, mostly flat roads, I feel the performance is more than adequate. If I lived in a mountainous area and routinely carried passengers I would want more power.
CAUTION:
The following specifications are recommended when towing a trailer. The loaded trailer weight cannot safely excced the values shown below:
1a. Engine -2.4(2WD) w/brake - Max Trailer=1200lbs Max Tongue=120lbs
1b. Engine -2.7(2WD) w/brake - Max Trailer=2700lbs Max Tongue=270lbs
2a. Engine -2.4(2WD) w/o brake - Max Trailer=1000lbs Max Tongue=100lbs
2b. Engine -2.7(2WD) w/o brake - Max Trailer=1200lbs Max Tongue=120lbs
2c. Engine -2.7(4WD) w/o brake - Max Trailer=1200lbs Max Tongue=120lbs
3a. Engine -2.4(2WD) w/o brake+ABS - Max Trailer=1200lbs Max Tongue=120lbs
3b. Engine -2.7(2WD) w/o brake+ABS - Max Trailer=1500lbs Max Tongue=150lbs
3c. Engine -2.7(4WD) w/o brake+ABS - Max Trailer=1500lbs Max Tongue=150lbs
According to this, an LX 4WD ABS can tow 1500 lbs., while any 2.7 2WD w/out ABS can tow 2700 lbs. as long as there are trailer brakes. Does it seem to anyone else that the concern seems to be more the ability to stop the trailer than the ability to actually tow it? I'm considering an LX 4WD ABS and am currently towing a double jetski trailer with my Grand Cherokee. Now, two three seat jetskis fully loaded probably weigh in at 1200 lbs. plus maybe 400 - 500 lbs for the trailer. That's pushing 1500lbs. a little over the limit. Any thoughts or experience on whether I'll have trouble starting - or just stopping. I can't beleive a SF with 4 wheel discs and ABS would have trouble stopping a couple of jetskis, yet I can't believe Hyundai expects anyone to put trailer brakes on a jetski trailer.
Any thoughts?
I bought a Subaru Forester S+ in November, but the SF was a VERY close second. Had the MPG on the v6 been better, I'd probably be driving one right now (I have a 130-mile round-trip commute). So, I guess this is an endorsement of the Santa Fe from someone who DIDN'T buy one.
While I disagree with tonychris' attitude and a lot of what he says, I do agree with his idea about having safety very high on his list of priorities. When I made my purchase, the SF had no safety data. The Forester performs REALLY well on just about every crash test, and the lower center of gravity and superior AWD system made me feel safe putting my two babies and wife into it. My priorities are roughly: how enjoyable is it to drive, safety, functionality, looks.
I understand that the real emphasis of this SUV is not real offroading.
***** But has anybody taken it to the test and what is it capable of??? Besides just the dirt road, what about no road at all, Upgrades with lots of loose rock mud etc.... ??????
***** Has anyone seen a skid plate option for the underbody protection of the Santa Fe????
**Or will I need to stick with the Lower gear transfer case (currently own a Chevy Blazer)for real off roading which the Santa Fe doesn't offer???
**** What about the 17" chrome 10 spoke tires ???? ** When will they be available as option on new Santa Fe ??????
Interestingly, had a Tribute as a rental vehicle and all I can say is CHEAP. The doors sounded like they would disintegrate if closed too hard. And very uncomfortable.
For those of you having trouble paying less than MSRP, try southern california... I got three quotes on the internet for $500-$1,000 UNDER MSRP... hard to believe they would all be bogus...
On my final test drive I checked for all the problems posted here... rear end vibration.. faulty clock... soft brakes... lack of acceleration/power... and happy to report all failed to materialize. Got 400 miles on it so far and nothing to complain about. No off roading or towing for me... first fill-up took 16.1 gallons, so "non-fill" fill not a problem for me either.
I have had some experience with Hyundai resale, and it's all sadly true. Toyota, VW dealers don't even want to discuss them, and the Toyota guy is a friend of mine. "Who's going to buy a late model used one when the warranties on new ones are so much better"... and an old one, still has the onus of old. Even my Santa Fe dealer hemmed and hawed... said he could pick one up at auction for better price... we "Compromised" since I didn't want to try to sell a Hyundai privately.
Hyundai apparently even less popular in southern california than anywhere else... must be the "expert" car crazies out there... oh well, here's one who rolled the dice at the $20K and under table" ... it will take 5 years to see how I did.
But in the short term, the vehicle is a gem. I've had vans, trucks, Millenias, station wagons, even a Fiat Spyder.. and this is the best fit yet. Let's hope they sell a bunch and the values hold up.
As for the options, I agree with you that Hyundai is probably still trying to erase a huge bad PR scar left over from the 80's. It seems Americans have terrible collective memory except for things like this. Anyway, while getting on better public relations footing with the American consumer is, and probably should be, Hyundai's first priority, it would be nice to see a few extra niceties on the options list on this side of the ocean. And a longer options list matched with the great list of standard equipment and the lower price might just go a long way in opening up the American market to Hyundai once again.
***Compare*** There is nothing to compare the Sant Fe with any other vehicle. There is so much different people out there and have different hobbies. We should not say anything bad about other manufacture vehicles. Let's say a little bit about the Santa Fe versus the Lexus RX300. Yes! That's right for anyone to say buy 2 SF for the price of 1 RX300. However, RX300 built with much more options, etc.. For those who have money and being able to afford over $40k then worth to buy the RX300. For over $50k look into BMW or Mercedes.
***Reliability Info*** Here is a trick about why Luxury manufacture like Lexus, Mercedes, BMW, etc.that carried the name with reliable reputation. Every manufacture can do the same. Most of the Luxury cars are to built with expensive options and carry good brand name. The trick is that most of these luxury car are to built in a way that you can not maintenance yourself. Look at the User Manual and you know what I mean. Most of these luxury class vehicle you have to bring the car in the Dealer Service to maintenance the car. That's why the car is mostly work after you ride out of the service place. Most of these car even have computer check to see what to inspect. But money talk....The Santa Fe that I have is great. I have already ordered 6 oil filters, 3 air filters, Brake pads, fuel filters, etc.for the use in the future. Just follow the User Manual and inspect yourself and save a Million... VERY IMPORTANT-Reliable are all depend on the driver and road condition where they live and/or drive. Yes! There is some vehicles that are recall but free of charge to fix. That's okay. Not everyone is perfect.
***Hyundai Options*** You can buy nearly all of the Hyundai Manufacture products that available in Korea but not in U.S. Just simply visit HDkautosport.com and order the options that you need for your Hyundai, Daewood, & Kia vehicle.
***My Santa FE*** I like the Nordic White Santa Fe! Why? Only the white SF have the silver body cladding and rest of the other colors have the gray body cladding. Also, the white color is better for the summer time if you have leather seats. The silver body cladding is much nicer than the gray to me. I lived in San Francisco and I would really like to ride the AWD vehicle on rainy and foggy condition. I go to ski sometime in Christmas season with my friends and it is nice to ride a vehicle with AWD, ABS, and Traction Control to handle the icy and snow road. More important to have the Mirrors Defroster to clear out your view while driving. With the same button it will clear the Mirrors and the Rear Windows as well. This vehicle have a small V6 engine but there is the advantage and disadvantage about this vehicle. Less power to accelerate but save a little of gas and maintenance are easily to work around the engine. What is import to you?
***My Santa Fe Price*** I paid $24980 Out the Door for my Santa Fe LX-AWD-V6-White Fully Loaded with Options 13. My budget was $28500 to spend for a new Mid-Size SUV. This car save me a lots of money. With the extra money I added the following feature (options) for my car. Wood Dash Trim, Wood Wider Rear View Mirror, Chrome Front Grill Protector, Chrome Side Steps, Chrome Rear Bumper Protector, Chrome Window Visors, Chrome Pano Mirrors, Blue Headlight Bulbs, Two Lumbar Support, Gauge Face Sport, Chrome Exchaust Tips, Silver Pedal Cover, Blind Spots Mirror inside window, Digital Multimeter System, Automatic Climate Control, Much Better Stereo System, Front Sway-Strut Bar, Radar Detector, Trunk Cargo Liner, All Season Mats, 6 Oil Filters, 3 Air filters, 1 Fuel Filter. Any more info please send me an email at travis@y2kcatalogs.com.
On a more "younger" level "The Santa Fe ROCKS"!
The only problems I've had so far is that the passenger leather seat as a defect. The leather is all dried up on one side and ready to crack. The dealer is acknowledging the fact and looking into it. The other is when I fuel up, the gas spits out when it is full without any warning...
Gas consumption is very high so far but I only have 700km. It should get better over time.
I put Bridgestone Winter Dueler tires on and this thing handles snow, slush and ice like a snowmobile! Seriously, it handles slippery conditions very well; the shiftronic is very usefull in those conditions. It handles very neutral, without excessive under or oversteer.
I had a CR-V for 4 years and it was too a very nice vehicle but I got tired of going trough the mountains fully loaded with a 2L engine. It was very reliable however and it retained more than 50% of it's original value after 4 years and 115,000 km.
The Santa Fe has better traction in the snow, is more comfortable, has obviously more power, is better equipped and is roomier. The transmission is also smoother on the Santa Fe.
I look forward to many years of fun with my Santa Fe.
PS: I road tested the MDX, the RX-300 and the Volvo XC which were all very nice (and on some aspects nicer) but I could not justify paying 50% more for these vehicles altough I could afford any of them.
How about after parking it for about like 30 to 50 minutes?
Anyway wcharles go to www.geocities.com/adamjrae and there is a scan of my window sticker there. It's a GLS 4WD ABS/Traction Control and carpeted car mats. Say $21,909
I already have the most powerful looking SUV in the whole world - Dodge Durango 5.9L in my garage. Its cost me CDN$45K before taxes. Now I want to buy a SUV for my wife to work (we live up in a mountain very sloppy). I want something smaller but at least same luxury, leathers seat, sporty shape, new look... etc. for under CND$30K
For under CDN$30K
The road test results.
1)Ford Escape - The noise & cheap interiors & old ugly angular shape body made me run away after test. Also, Ford have poor recall & resell history. Look at what happen in the Ford Exploror. I forget it.
2)Mazda Tribute - Same product like Escape. Ford change the outside of the body a little bit want to fool the cusumers. I can see they use a Ford Tranny, not mazda. The terrible low clearance under body made you in deep trouble during Heavy snow and of course offroad, warning! Don't drive it off road. I'd rather buy a MPV (seat 7) than Tribute. Don't let the shiny Mazda Logo in the car body fool you. Those shinny Logo is attractive but not worth what you pay. I forget it.
3) Subaru Forester - Body Too low, just like a car, if i like this kind of suv i will prefer a acura or honda. Their engines is probably more reliable than Subaru. I forget it.
4) Santa Fe - The supreme comfort I ever feel in my whole life, so luxury & beautyful all in & out, I paid cdn$29,000 (Asking sticker price cdn$31,900 plus freight & tax) fully loaded 4WD GLS Silver body color. Before xmas, We go for a trip in Rocky mountain, & also there is a heavy snow fall in our city. This car handling very well (I have 20 year driving experience in GMC, Acura, Honda, BMW, BENZ, Durango). Anything functioning well - ABS, traction & Slip controls..etc.
The gas milage is very good. I am not so lucky like US customer. Canadian Model only come w/ 6 years & 100,000km warranty but it is still the best in canadian market. It made me don't worry about the engine.
One more thing to mention. Don't let the car mazagine testing reports fool you. They are basically BIAS - they might wrote a story for their big advertiser. The few second difference in acceleration is not realistic to our real life. Different test person can easily response slower or faster in few seconds. Test drive by yourself is the smartest way to purchase any car.
Gasoline engine will eventually replace by electric car in the next decade, the performance of the gasoline engine almost go to the extreme, if the car maker can price us$20K you don't have to worry the engine, you paid what you get.
I think if not because of the cheap labor & money exchange, the Santa Fe definitely is underprice.
So far, I real enjoy this car, and my community have at least close to a dozen people already driving this beauty. I don't care who is the manufacture - american or japanese or korean, I hope more nice car like Santa Fe will show in the near Future.
The vibration is not bad and only noticeable to the driver. Also it does not vibrate at a steady speed.
Other than this we really like our Santa Fe, but we only have 400 miles on it and only time can tell.
They recommend slowing down towards the end of your fill up.!!..
If someone else is having this problem, please let me know..
Also, has anyone found any of these winter floor mats that fit fairly well in the Santa Fe? I would like to save the carpeted ones for better weather!
Thanks!
If the problem persists, have the dealer check the ORVR(On-vehicle Refueling Vapor Recovery) system in the tank, especially the fuel cut-off valve.
This is US-mandated pollution control system and dosen't work well w/ some pumps' recovery system. The spec is very tight...you'll see more of this refueling problem as all light vehicles sold in the US are required to be fitted w/ this vapor recovery system effective 2000 model year.
Let's quit the computer and go driving!
Has anyone noticed how negative the comments are getting on MSN CarPoints Consumer Reviews? It would scare me off if I were just starting to look. Do you think they are honest reviews? For some reason, I think people are trying to sabotage the board over there. I'd like to see more accurate reviews posted.
Vibration: All new vehicle have an automatic cooling engine system. Notice the Santa Fe Hot/Cold Gauge. They are below the Middle, Most of the vehicle are right at the Middle. The cooling engine system really made the Santa Fe engine last longer according to me. The engine won't burn much and it should last longer. That's why I think Hyundai are willing to give a better warranty. Vibration affect when the automatic colling engine break in. I have driven RAV4, Celica, other. They have this problem too, but only happen in a second or so only. That should be very normal.
Shifttronic Gear: Follow the User Manual with the correct miles using on each individual Shiftronic Gear. This way you can keep the transmission last longer. If effort for more power when driving at higher speed use the 3 gear for a second or soo but don't use it long for a temporary using higher RPM. This will boost your car a little better in acceleration. Work similar to most car with an Overdrive button. Santa have an automatic Overdrive when the car boost on the 4 gear.
Any question please contact me at travis@y2kcatalogs.com
I live in Michigan, the dealer from your post "Jeff Wylers AutoMall, Springfield, OH" is about 250 miles away. However, the price in MI is much higher to what you are paying. Could you please share the sales person's name.
Thank you in advance.
The overall rating had been about 9.7 - 9.8 before this guy showed up, and is now down to 8.6.
If you read the postings, it is fairly obvious they were written by the same person, with the same bad sentence structure, and grammar.
This person claims everything from having blown TWO engines, and broken an engine mount, to having TOTALED one in a 5MPH crash, with serious injuries! Gee, where was he posting from, the hospital?
His main complaint seems to be the lack of resale value. He (assuming it even IS a he) never really
seems to cite any valid complaints, just broad assertions.
I have complained to MSN, and gotten an electronic form letter in response.
It's too bad, because a lot of people look at these reviews before purchasing a vehicle.
For what it is worth, I have a new LX V6 AWD, with pkg. 13, and other than stiff wiper blades and a fairly deaf FM tuner, it has been flawless so far, at 700 miles.
Initial mileage (first two fill-ups) during break-in, at about 12 degrees F. is 21 MPG, mostly highway.
No problems yet with vibration, 'soft'brakes, getting in gear when cold, gas filling or blinking clock display.
One thing that did throw me for a loop was the keyless entry. If you unlock the Santa Fe with the remote, and do not open any doors, the vehicle will re-lock itself after 30 seconds.
This is not mentioned in the owner's manual, and it took my noticing the exact 30 second time frame to deduce this must be normal.
All in all, I am very satisfied thus far. I would highly recommend this vehicle, and I pity the people who will be misled by the MSN imposter.