Hyundai Santa Fe 2007+

berniedg

Call me old fashioned, I say support your local business.
Previous to this upcoming purchase I bought 2 new Fords, and a Chrysler and they provided excellent transport.
Personally, I wouldn't drive 2 hours to a dealership.
Check out the pics of the new GMC Acadia coming soon , ...or a Ford Freestyle. Test Drive a bunch of cars !
Theres alot of new product coming soon.

morey000

As far as the Envoy being overpriced- you can get them for thousands below invoice. They're coming to the end of their run (since 2002) and will be replaced with a unibody construction SUV probably in '08. So, they can be had for far less.

I think they're still pretty nice vehicles- although in a different class than the Compass or SF. With a real 4WD system, real towing capacity, body on frame truck construction- it's a different type of vehicle. That all said- you can get a nice Envoy SLT for sub-$30K, that would compare price and feature wise to a loaded SF.

subarufan1

so we are talking like nissan murano/toyota highlander size right?? the torque numbers seemed low for the 3.3l v6 compared to other cars in the class as well. :sick:

davesuv

The Envoy is in a different class. No available 3rd row seat. No electronic stability control. 15/21 fuel economy. If I had a 2 hr drive to the Hyundai dealership, I'd probably go instead for the Highlander. We have the 04 Limited and it's an extremely nice vehicle. (comes very close to our RX350 in overall feel - not surprising considering their family ties.) I'm only considering the Santa Fe because I can't bring myself to own 2 of the same car, and the SF is something fresh and exciting I'm willing to gamble on.

jpanozzo1

I try to support local business 99% of the time. But some dealers seem to feel leaving your wallet on their desk is a prerequisite to buying. How many other businesses jack up prices with "added features" like fabric protection etc. and then charge outlandish prices for the "extras". About a month ago the local Hyundia dealer had a dozen 05 SFs left and each one had a $950 "EPA" line item added. Take that to read "extra profit added".

It's just easier to do the deal online with the dealers who want to participate and then go pick it up. Until internet sales became common, buying a car was the one task that usually turned into an unpleasant experience. Nothing worst than spending 20-30K and being aggravated.

Joe in Texarkana

jpanozzo1

Did anyone resolve the floor mat issue? Iwas told you have to purchase them separately at the dealership.

If listed on the window sticker, it comes with the vehicle, otherwise it's extra. If it's negotiated in the deal, make sure it's on paper somewhere. Most dealers have a form specifically for this purpose..it's to assure that something is not promised today in the deal as opposed to made up later by the customer or denied by the saleperson.

If the window sticker is destroyed after the vehicle is sold during the clean-up, get a print out from the dealer of the vehicle's features. Take a few minutes to go over the list before driving off the dealer's lot. It's a lot easier to get "missing" items replaced.

Regardless of what the brochures say...they all have a disclaimer for noting features that later turn out to be optional (add web sites info to this statement).

In addition to all this, some dealerships have employees that unfortunately take the items for their own vehicles or to include as an "extra" when dealing with other customers.

Joe in Texarkana

arumage

That's about the right size class. The hp and torque number are lower than the nissan (245hp, 246lb ft) but higher than the toyota (215hp, 222lb ft), and it's more than $5,000 less than both of them based on MSRP. Gas mileage is about the same on all three. I'm not sure what you can get them for at the dealer though.

arumage

You have to have some extra money in the bank for the Highlander though because a FWD Highlander Limited is about $34,000 msrp, but the Highlander is a wonderful vehicle.

davesuv

Actually, if I get on Edmunds and use their price calculator to see what people are actually paying for the cars in my area I come up with the following:
All cars are equipped with 4 wheel drive, 3rd row seating, sunroof, leather with heated seats, floor mats, full airbags. I've also included those few options that are "forced" upon you.

Highlander Limited AWD - $31,617
RAV4 Limited AWD 3.5L - $29,145
2007 Santa Fe Limited AWD - $30,324
Honda Pilot EX-L AWD - $30,829

Pricewise, these four are all within reach of each other. I agree, the Highlander is a wonderful vehicle. I'll have to test drive the Santa Fe to see how it compares. Based on what other people have stated, I think it should do well. Is there any other SUV in this price range with 3rd row seating that can compete with these four?

I think a person would do quite well with any one of these. Size and style considerations will be what sways many individuals. Both the Pilot and Highlander are due for makeovers within the next year. That enters into my choice. The Pilot is just a little bigger than I want to go. The RAV4 is slanted toward performance while the Santa Fe toward a more "refined" ride. I guess I favor the quiet cushy ride. We already have a Highlander in our family. That sort of leaves me with the Santa Fe as my top choice at this point in time.

davesuv

Just checked Toyota's web site. You can't get leather heated seats if you get the 3rd row seats on the RAV4. I guess that bumps the RAV4 out of the running for me. Oh well, I guess I know my way to Santa Fe

berniedg

Hey,
With your price/value comparison, I'd go with Honda/Toyota based on perceived quality and resale value. Selling a used Pilot for a great price in 7 years, should be No problem !
Here in Canada, 2007 Santa Fe looks, way, better based on purchase price, $30k, versus $40k(Pilot).
For the person having to drive 2 hours for dealer service, having only Big 3 nearby, I would currently buy the Pacifica.
Our Car culture is wonderful isn't it ! Choices, Choices. Cheers !

arumage

I think that Santa Fe prices paid will drop even more as it becomes easier to find them with the right options. When the Pilot and Highlander are restyled, I'm sure the prices paid for them will jump up quite a bit, although they will undoubtably become bigger vehicles to compete with the new domestic entries. As vehicles get older, you usually can pay a bit less at the dealer for them.

arumage

The Pacifica also gets a new engine for next year, a 4.0L V6 with a 6-speed automatic. They say it has a better hp and torque curve thus increased performance and better gas mileage, mostly due to the 2 extra gears. I've taken one on a fairly long trip, and I personally love the Pacifica for how it drives and comfort. It can just get a bit pricy when you add options, but I haven't really looked at prices paid.

ergsum

On product quality and future direction:

http://www.autolinedetroit.tv/autoline/watch.php?stream=1026

http://www.autolinedetroit.tv/autoline/watch.php?stream=1026-extra

boyzmum

Hello all,
We are waiting on a GLS here in ON Can. Has anyone seen one here yet? The dealer can't give us ANY kind of timeline.

Also ... anyone purchased here in Canada yet? Interested to know what kind of deals might be available locally? I do not enjoy dealing with car salesmen!

Thanks!

live4tech

I've got a question for all the new owners of the 07 Santa Fe: How is the effectiveness of the air conditioning system? Is it cold enough for you this time of year? Any difference between the 2.7 and 3.3 engines? Thanks in advance!

nifty56

From what I have heard all AWD does is get you off faster in a straight line and nothing more. I believe the Nissan Murano only sells the AWD here in Canada. As someone said just get good winter tires and save your money..

tnavery

We've had ours for less then a week and during that time it's been super hot here in MN - close to 100 degrees and high dewpoints. We've had no problem with the air - it cools off fast and stays very comfortable.

subarufan1

i have heard the 3.3 is the wise engine choice. :shades:

tnavery

I forgot to mention we have the 2.7

arumage

The 2.7L is vastly changed this year vs. the older model. I've got to say that I would choose the 3.3L for no other reason than the Santa Fe is a pretty heavy vehicle. For longevity and maintenance though, it's probably a toss up. It just depends on whether you can justify the extra expense.

tjlovell

Very effective! Blows cold in front and back. My kids have asthma and they need the cold. We live in Louisiana where it has been very hot lately. Gets cold in no time flat as compared with my old '01 Galant

berniedg

Nope, haven't seen any GLS's yet, but I can give you the current stock of 3 separate Hyundai dealers, in west end Toronto area ! haha, ....yup I like it, just a little.

Prices: someone on the U.S side mentioned $2k off retail is possible. I'm thinking thats an opening bid ? Comments.
True, prices will drop by year-end.

By the way, 2007 Ford Edge is coming soon, another choice, built in Oakville, right in my backyard, looks promising, only 5 seater. A little late to the party, however.

new2diesel

2.7 GLS with auto, 2wd - mine blows so cold you will get numb on a trip. Once it cools the cabin down (which isn't long) I have to turn off the MAX A/C because it gets to cold. In Central VA with temps in the upper 90's.

I carefully considered the 3.3 vs the 2.7 and FWD vs AWD. In the end I felt the best value was the FWD 2.7 The engine is a proven performer and they now have upgraded the valve train from what I read. The 2.7 has enough power for my needs nad I drive in the mountains daily. With the 3.3 you get a little less MPG and a little more power, although when I test drove them back to back I didn't notice alot of difference. Then again I don't usually push it to the floor either. My recommendation is save some money and keep this vehicle a value. :shades:

jah999

Hello. I'm new to the forum, very interested in the '07 SF. Is there any word yet as to when it will be crash tested by the NHTSA or IIHS?

arumage

There is some word that the Edge will have a 3rd row for 2008. Ford lists it as a potential future upgrade for 2008 when you build one. It certainly is a sweet looking vehicle. There is also the Mazda CX-9 which shares alot of components with the Edge but is a few inches larger and has a more rounded shape.

mike_belknap

Hi! Welcome to the forum.

NHTSA has the vehicle listed on their roster, but there aren't any results pending as of yet. The IIHS doesn't advance-release which vehicles they will test. However, since it's likely to be a popular model, the odds of them testing it within the year are probably fairly high. On the other hand, the Tucson still hasn't been tested for frontal offset or IIHS side-impact crashworthiness.

Mike

mike_belknap

OK, so you know all that stuff I just wrote about IIHS likely releasing results within the year? Try within the morning!

2007 Hyundai Santa Fe frontal offset crash test results

Mike

stever

lol, timing is everything Mike.

I wish "Good" wasn't the highest rating; seems ordinary. They do have a few Top Picks, but I'd rather see the scale go to Excellent.

davesuv

My main reason for preferring all wheel drive over front wheel drive is safety. The ability of the car to automatically transfer power from the slipping front wheel to the rear wheels will improve traction and handling. This is particularly helpful in slippery road conditions or when used in conjunction with the electronic stability control. Consumer Reports has long advocated all wheel drive for safety reasons.

Here is an excerpt from the Borg Warner site (the company that manufactures the interactive torque management system for the Santa Fe):

The ITM (TM) system uses sophisticated controls and algorithms to sense slip, and converts the front-wheel drive-based platform to all-wheel drive within milliseconds. This enhances vehicle handling and traction by optimally using grip at both the front and rear wheels. At highway speeds, the system automatically reduces power transfer to the rear wheels, which enhances fuel economy versus other all-wheel drive systems. In addition, the ITM (TM) system is designed to work in cooperation with other vehicle systems like anti-lock brakes and electronic stability programs to further enhance traction and stability.

backy

The scale goes to "excellent" if you consider a "Gold" pick to be excellent and "Silver" to be very good. But we won't know that for the Santa Fe until the side and rear crash tests are completed--and the IIHS itself will conduct those. The reason the frontal test was available so soon is because Hyundai did that test and reported it to the IIHS.

jah999

Wow! Timing certainly is everything! Looks like it's off to a good start...Thanks.

live4tech

I was also looking to get into a Santa Fe GLS 2wd 2.7 because of the value quotient. I wish Hyundai offered the ability to pick which options we wanted individually, like the Infinity stereo, for instance, or a power driver's seat.

Anyway, thanks to everybody who reported back about the excellent effectiveness of the new Santa Fe's air conditioning. This week, having superb AC has become more important than ever, lol. Any additional new owners please feel free to comment on your AC in future weeks...

And it was good to hear the driving feel of the two engines is not that different. I imagine the higher final drive ratio of the 2.7 is contributing to a heightened feeling of grunt off the line. (I noticed that from reading the drivetrain specs)

Speaking of the drivetrain, have we settled the issue of whether or not the improved 2.7 mu engine has a timing belt or a timing chain? I can't find any reliable information confirming that either way, and I would strongly prefer not to own another car that requires regular timing belt changes. Not in this day and age when "silent" timing chains are becomming so commonly available.

Finally, kudos to Hyundai for earning an IIHS Good rating on this vehicle. That, along with standard ESC, and what I hope will be a good showing on the side impact crash test are essential elements if the Santa Fe is to make its way off the showroom floor and into my driveway.

stever

I think they need the legend on every page since there are those of us who get there by other links instead of drilling down. We see "Good" and wonder what it wasn't better. A lifetime of grade inflation I suppose.

I didn't even notice the Gold and Silver distinction on the Top Picks until you mentioned it.

Any people gripe about our orange buttons.

tidester

I wish "Good" wasn't the highest rating; seems ordinary.

I'd rather see just a numerical scale. "Good," "Excellent" and so on sound judgmental and "excellent" sounds like an endorsement.

tidester, host

new2diesel

Interesting question about the timing belt. I just looked at the service intervals this morning and the book goes to 150,000 miles worth of intervals. No where in the book that I saw did it mention timing belt or changing it. That leads me to beleive it is a chain or improved belt which should need to be changed. I hope that is true.

I also contacted my dealer about the floor mats. They said they aren't included unless they were on the invoice which they weren't. He also said he talked to his manager and they would hook me up with a set. Easy to see why this dealer has been voted #1 dealer in the area - they really take good care of you.

jmorgart

I have been in the market for a good quality SUV for a few months. Have read really good reviews for the Kia Sorento 2006, except for the poor gas mileage I only drive 20 miles round trip to work, so not a large issue. I have also read the good reviews for the 2007 Santa Fe. Question... Is the SF as good off-road as the Sorento is? Does it have low range and skid plates etc.?? I live in the Rocky Mountains so would like a decent SUV, not for rock climbing in Utah, but for some off-roading in the mountains. Thanks

mike_belknap

I can provide the real numerical data if you'd like....


Mike

senior

Anyone with a COSTCO card can purchase the new Santa Fe at the dealers cost.Also the Hyundai loyalty discount may be added soon.You need to own A Hyundai for this one.

arumage

If you like the Sorento, you might want to hold off until next year. The Sorento gets a 3.8L 262hp V6, and towing goes up to 5000lbs. I think it will be a tougher vehicle than the Santa Fe due to body-on-frame construction. Gas mileage probably won't improve that much, but atleast you'll have some more impressive numbers and performance to go with it.

2007 Kia Sorento

morey000

Davesuv wrote: "...cars are equipped with 4 wheel drive, 3rd row seating, sunroof, leather with heated seats, floor mats, full airbags. I've also included those few options that are "forced" upon you.

Highlander Limited AWD - $31,617
RAV4 Limited AWD 3.5L - $29,145
2007 Santa Fe Limited AWD - $30,324
Honda Pilot EX-L AWD - $30,829

...Is there any other SUV in this price range with 3rd row seating that can compete with these four?"

Nicely done, DaveSuv. I was thinking of the **Subaru B9 Tribeca** as a comparison vehicle. The '06's were going cheap, well below Invoice- and would have compared favorably with these numbers. However, I just ran the '07 with all your options and came up with $34K- a few $K higher.

jcspohr

I looked at costco auto buying site and only the Entourage minivan was listed. Also, doesn't the discount vary by dealership?

Regards,

JCS

tidester

I can provide the real numerical data if you'd like....

Ten-point-oh for you, Mike!

tidester, host

tnavery

I got the loyalty award when I purchased last week - $500.

jrock65

There seems to be a lot of interest in this car.

Does anyone know what the projected sales breakdown is between the 2.7/3.3?

50%/50%?

60%/40%?

70%/30%?

subarufan1

well i am sure that the 07 sante fe will be fine for snow,fire trails, small hills and some mud. its not a serious 4x4 and does not have low range but should be fine as long as you are not trying to ford 6 foot deep rivers and hopping granite bolders. it also has a button that lock 4wd mode up to about 25 mph. small to medium scale 4x4ing should be no problem. hope this helps :shades:

jvenezia

According to Hyundai, the ratio will be 60/40, 3.3/2.7.

lv2drv

Has it escaped anyone's notice that this new SUV or CUV has one of the most posts. Unless I'm going to the wrong places, there is hardly anything on the Mariner, Compass, Envoy, etc. I like to look at them all just to make sure I'm getting the right one and the SF forum is awesome. Does anyone know why this is? My husband & I were looking at Grand Cherokees over the weekend, and for I know it's bigger, but I think the SF would be a better bargain. They are still trying to sell 05's! I do want to see the Compass when it cools off; I'm not going out any more than I have to. But, I also want to know what others think. But there's hardly anything in the forum.

stever

You may be interested in the Most Researched Vehicles link.

Highlander, RAV4 and Pilot made the top 50 for the current list.

For counting posts, entering a keyword in the search tool at the left is probably the easiest way to get a quick idea of what's active on the boards.

senior

Call COSTCO and they will tell you the dealer in your area.They will contact that dealer and give him your name and phone number.When you go in the dealers costco rep will show you the actural dealer costs.Its that simple.The costco dealers prices are all the same.