Edmunds dealer partner, Bayway Leasing, is now offering transparent lease deals via these forums. Click here to see the latest vehicles!
Options
Popular New Cars
Popular Used Sedans
Popular Used SUVs
Popular Used Pickup Trucks
Popular Used Hatchbacks
Popular Used Minivans
Popular Used Coupes
Popular Used Wagons
Comments
A dealer who will give you 5 days to change your mind is good to find. I assume if you decide not to keep your present car you have to select another one from this dealer.
We rarely use our third row seat (both in our Santa Fe and in our previous minivan). I'd say we use it about 3 or 4 times a year. Even so, I would never consider buying a vehicle without it. For those few times we make use of it, it really does come in handy. When friends or family from out of town come to visit, we can all fit into one car when we go out. If your kids want to take their friends with them somewhere, no problem. It also lets you play bus driver if your kids are into team sports (hmmm, maybe you don't want to get the third row after all ). I think the third row just increases the versatility of the vehicle significantly, with little downside (cost, loss of hidden storage bin). With or without it, the Santa Fe is a great vehicle.
Dave
2007 Santa Fe AWD Limited with Premium and Touring packages
Dark Cherry Red with beige leather interior
Karen
If you have your groceries packed in plastic bags, you can hang the handles of the bags around the plastic knobs. The bags still sit on the floor, but are kept from moving or tipping over while driving. This has come in very handy for me.
2007 Santa Fe AWD Limited with Premium and Touring packages
Dark Cherry Red with beige leather interior
davesuv: thanks for your reply as well. That's a good idea! I have appreciated your comments in this forum. You seem knowledgeable about cars in general; and of course, the SF in particular.
SF Limited FWD Premium with XM.
Golden Beige (prettier than I thought it would be, and yes, I'm a woman)/beige interior.
For one thing we never thought we would be driving a Hyundai because we started out looking for a Toyota to replace our aging Camry. But at the end of this odyssey, although there were some nice rides between them all but the one winner that came out on top was the Hyundai Santa Fe.
We've had it for about a month now and so far it has lived up to all expectations and then some. My wife really enjoys the 605 watt Infinity surround sound system when jamming to Aerosmith, Dire Straits, Madonna or Barry White. I love it best with Bach when I get a chance to ride or drive it.
My favorite feature of the Santa Fe is the ride and the comfortable seats. This was important to me as the closest contender, the Rav4 had one of the most uncomfortable seats but the Highlander had a nice ride but it just looked too old frumpy-fogey and the interior was surprisingly uninspired and in my opinion, plain, plain, ugly.
All in all we are very satisfied with the deal we received as it was all completed over the internet thanks to Edmunds' helpful dealer quote service.
We highly recommend this Vehicle. Great Job Hyundai.
I just plugged the T-tap into each and that was that. However the next part was little more difficult (since I had to get the flat 4-cond end to my 4way to 6 way adapter that I need for brakes). I used a "uni-bit" type step drill bit to drill down through the existing hole under the left side of the threshold(where plastic plug is presently) just big enough to fit the whole 4 way flat plug through it. Then using a bright light which I shined down through the hole, I went under the car and located another plug directly below and a little to the left. This is where I drilled another hole big enough to pull the 4 way flat adapter through.
I would use some thick rubber sticky tape or anything to keep the sharp edges from cutting into the wire, to press over the sharp edge using multiple pieces. My photo's are linked below. If you need some photo's I would be happy to put some up.
http://townhall-talk.edmunds.com/WebX/.f123fc7/2!make=Hyundai&model=Santa%20Fe&e- - d_makeindex=.f123fc7">link title
Wondering if anyone has put on any Side Step bars on their 07 Santa Fe yet? Any suggestions or brands that looks and works well?
Photos would be nice too. Tried searching online including ebay but wished there was better pictures to see actual looks.
Thanks in advance for your comments.
See more Car Pictures at CarSpace.com
It took two months. Shipped from Korea for me from a shop in Arizona. Let me know if your interested.
I did then plug the 4 way into a 7 way adapter #30717 and had to run a 12/2 to the front for my electrical brake controller. My recent towing event went flawlessly and I didn't blow up the car.
I would also recommend, when convenient, calling Hyundai Consumer affairs and getting a credit to be used at your local dealer for services. This credit would be for the cost of this 18176, due to the fact that Hyundai hasn't made an adapter yet. I got double of what it cost... the person on the phone wanted to make sure I was happy.
Thanks!
I'll check out wiring options when the unit arrives. Do you think you could route it without drilling if you cut the 4 way flat end off and just pushed the wires through, reconnecting once outside the vehicle? I think I'd rather cut the harness than drill holes. Or, would I be better off going with a different harness that allowed me to use the pre-wiring that's already there?
Looking forward to your reply(s).
I am presently looking for air-shocks to replace the OEM Hyundai ones. I was going to try air bags but after e-mailing the manufacturer (Air Lift Inc.) a photo of the rear spring assembly, the technician indicated that the rubber bumper inside the top of the spring would have to be cut off and the air bag would only touch 2 coils, which may or may not solve the problem. However, replacement air-shocks seem to be difficult to locate since the vehicle is so new. I probably will have to take one off and head to a auto parts store or specialty off road place to get a match.
Any suggestions would be welcome, if any one here has purchased any air-shocks or got a part number that would cross reference with the OEM shocks? Thanks in advance.
Dang, I was hoping to install Air Lift when I purchase the Santa Fe!
I'm a true Hyundai fan - I LOVE these cars! But, I'm also the guy who sold dr_doug his Santa Fe.
Anyway, I've followed all the talk about the towing package and wanted to let you all know that Hyundai has finally released a factory tow hitch w/ wiring harness. We received one in stock at the dealership today, and I had the parts manager rip the box open so I could see it with my own eyes.
Hyundai;s suggested MSRP on the hitch/harness is $393, and should cost around $514 installed by service.
I know this has been a hot topic for most consumers and wanted the folks at Edmunds (especially you, dr_doug!) to hear it first.
To be on the safe side for warranty coverage, it would make sense to go for the shorter interval. My dealer even wrote in 3,500 mi oil changes on the warranty card. For the relatively small cost involved, I've decided to have all my oil changes done at the dealer and at 3,500 mile intervals so that there is no question when it comes down to warranty coverage. Plus, I think there's a better chance of the dealer catching something that may be going wrong before it becomes a problem if they get to inspect it frequently.
2007 Santa Fe Limited AWD with Premium and Touring packages
Dark Cherry Red with beige leather interior
A few questions:
- What type of gasoline (octane requirement) is recommended for the 3.3 liter engine? I can't find this info anywhere in the brochure or on Hyundai's web site.
- I've not seen the gray or black leather interior in person. (I've only seen the beige and I will not be getting that color.) I've seen the pictures of the gray in the brochure and it looks good; there are no pictures of the black interior in the brochure. To those who've seen the gray and black interiors in person, what are your thoughts? Also, do they both come with the dark gray wood-grained trim (as opposed to the maple-like color of the trim in the beige interior)?
- Are folks here satisfied with the Limited's stock (not the Infinity) audio system?
- Do the red lights that are mounted in the rear bumper light up? I know they didn't in the previous generation Santa Fe; I always thought that was kind of dumb - to put them there only to not have them do anything. They'd make great brake lights or rear fog lights (as found on most European cars).
- Speaking of lights, are you satisfied with the amount of light produced by the headlights? (I'm kind of spoiled by the xenons in our other cars.)
- Has anyone here had an aftermarket GPS navigation system installed? If so, I'd appreciate any details you can share (e.g. type of system, where you had it mounted, cost, any ill effects such as defeating use of steering wheel audio buttons, etc.).
Thanks for your help, everyone.
- Mike
Hope this helps. Good luck with your purchase.
Anthony
What type of gasoline (octane requirement) is recommended for the 3.3 liter engine? I can't find this info anywhere in the brochure or on Hyundai's web site. You can use 87, 89, or higher. I use 89 with Ethanol.
- I've not seen the gray or black leather interior in person. (I've only seen the beige and I will not be getting that color.) I've seen the pictures of the gray in the brochure and it looks good; there are no pictures of the black interior in the brochure. To those who've seen the gray and black interiors in person, what are your thoughts? Also, do they both come with the dark gray wood-grained trim (as opposed to the maple-like color of the trim in the beige interior)? Black will show too much dust too quickly and be really hot in summer, especially in the south. The gray would be better. I can't remember the trim.
- Are folks here satisfied with the Limited's stock (not the Infinity) audio system? I love the sound system. Our former car had an Infinity sound system and I would say the stock beats or exceeds. It has exceeded my expectations. I love the XM that comes with it, plus you get the first three months free.
- Do the red lights that are mounted in the rear bumper light up? I know they didn't in the previous generation Santa Fe; I always thought that was kind of dumb - to put them there only to not have them do anything. They'd make great brake lights or rear fog lights (as found on most European cars). As far as I know, they do. However, the rear turn signals are very small and hard to see. My husband noticed this while following me one day.
- Speaking of lights, are you satisfied with the amount of light produced by the headlights? (I'm kind of spoiled by the xenons in our other cars.) I would rather have xenons, but these lights put out a good deal of light.
- Has anyone here had an aftermarket GPS navigation system installed? If so, I'd appreciate any details you can share (e.g. type of system, where you had it mounted, cost, any ill effects such as defeating use of steering wheel audio buttons, etc.). Doesn't apply to me.
Good luck. No matter what, I think you will love your Santa Fe. I've been thrilled with mine and look for reasons to take it out. I have the Limited FWD golden beige/beige interior; Premium package & XM. It came with cargo tray and mats. We purchased the cargo cover and love it. For a CUV, I think it gets good gas mileage. On a 1600 mile round trip, we averaged 24 mpg.
I've had my 2007 Santa Fe AWD Limited with Premium and Touring packages now since October and have about 7,500 miles on it. I've only used regular gas in it without any problems; no knocking, more pickup than I need. I also love the standard stereo system. Excellent sound quality and the best FM reception I've ever experienced in a car. The small reflectors at the rear bumper are just reflectors.
I use a Garmin GPS system (StreetPilot C340) for trips and absolutely love it. My first trip I had it mounted at the bottom center of the windshield and it worked fine. For my most recent trip, I mounted it at the lower left side of the windshield, to the left of the steering wheel, and I like that position much better. The screen is much closer to me and it does not interfere with driving visibility at all. I can easily run the power cord under the dash and plug it in the center console 12V outlet. I definitely would recommend a GPS unit that speaks the street names. I also really like the portable nature of the Garmin unit. I can take it inside with me to pre-program my various destinations (or potential destinations). It is very intuitive to use and I wonder how I got along without it previously on trips.
Good luck with your Santa Fe decision
I have a 07 limited and I also noticed that the turn signals were small and hard to see. I ordered a pair of functional rear bumper fog lights to replaced the OEM reflectors and wired them so that they flash with the turn signals. Now there is no problem seeing them.
Thought I'd go ahead and chime in as well. I have the same setup you are looking at only it is FWD. Bought mine in late Sept and have about 6500 miles on it.
I've used only regular 89 octane and have had no problems. Mileage took awhile to get up there, but now is holding between 18 - 19 mpg city driving. Highway I get around 20 -21 maybe.
I love the black or "carbon" interior. I don't like wood paneling (real or fake) in cars, but the black "wood" paneling is nice looking. I don't notice much dust build up, but I try to keep my pretty clean.
The stock stereo is nice, except for the FM tuner. At times it will drop a few decibels because the digital signal is lost. This is a known documented issue by Hyundai and the stereo is supposed to work like this. :confuse: After 7 months though I don't notice it as much, but I may replace eventually.
Happy Driving!
-Luke
- Does the owner's manual make a specific recommendation regarding gasoline octane requirements?
- To ottoman2 and pelican 19, can you provide any add'l. information on the aftermarket rear bumper light modification? (Pelican19, I couldn't find the info you referenced in your reply; ottoman2, can you please provide a few more details e.g. source, how tough to install, do they use the factory lenses, etc.?
Thanks very much.
- Mike
Here is the excerpt from the manual about fuel recommendations (Section 1, page 2):
Use Unleaded Gasoline
Unleaded gasoline with a Pump Octane Rating of 87(Research Octane Number 91) or Higher must be used. For improved vehicle Performance, premium unleaded gasoline with Pump Octane Rating of 91(RON 95) or higher is recommended.
What About Gasohol?
Gasohol (a mixture of 90% unleaded gasoline and 10% ethanol or grain alcohol) may be used in your Hyundai. However, if your engine develops driveability problems, the use of 100% unleaded gasoline is recommended. Fuels with unspecified quantities of alcohol, or alcohols other than ethanol, should not be used.
Use of MTBE
Hyundai recommends that fuels containing MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) over 15.0% vol. (Oxygen Content 2.7% weight) should not be used in your Hyundai. Fuel containing MTBE over 15.0% vol. (Oxygen Content 2.7% weight) may reduce vehicle performance and produce vapor lock or hard starting.
Do Not Use Methanol
Fuels containing methanol (wood alcohol) should not be used in your Hyundai. This type of fuel can reduce vehicle performance and damage components of the fuel system.
Gasolines for Cleaner Air
To help contribute to cleaner air, Hyundai recommends that you use gasolines treated with detergent additives, which help prevent deposit formation in the engine. These gasolines will help the engine run cleaner and enhance performance of the Emission Control System.
I just purchased my 2007 AWD Ltd T/P (Touring /Premium ) and yes, it does include the Towing Prep Package . . . beyond all the nice engine/drive train upgrades to boost internals to handle from 2000lbs to 3500lbs tow capacity, it does come "pre-wired for trailer" providing two Female connectors behind the left rear wheel well.
One of us stated a DEALERSHIP received a Hitch kit WITH Harness?!! Pray tell the details and PART NUMBERS - especially the HARNESS. (and what is on the other end of that venerable harness?!)
In several calls to the Hyundai hotline, they still have no part number or knowledge of a harness/pigtail adapter to take power from the "pre-wired female connector" to your favorite American trailer plug (i.e. - a Male connector to a standard flat four plug . . . wouldn't that be wonderful?).
If you've a lead on a factory compatible or even OEM harness, (not the T-One connector that intercepts the brake lamps!), pls provide the part number and best way to order it.
OR, if anyone has figured out . . . (should we, ahem, snip off the factory Female connector), what wires go to what wires on a stnd 4 conductor harness, pls fwd the wiring diagram/sequence - THAT would be awesome!! Okay, to be really OEM and true hobbyist - just find me the male connectors somewhere - the Radio Shack I went to could not figure this one out from their inventory. . . we can make our own, make use of the pre-wire and not have to drill holes in the cabin floor to route wires.
Good luck guys / gals - you're a great bunch and I hope to see you all well beyond 100K miles with smiles!
Transmission Cooler
Upgraded Radiator
Upgraded Engine Fans
Trailer Pre-wiring
With the larger 242Hp engine, when combined with a trailer WITH brakes, it increases your tow capacity from 2000 lbs to 3500 lbs.
Yes, I think we all would like to see in addition, Higher amp Alternator, High Capacity Battery, Heavy duty Signal Relays, Oversized brakes, and Rear-suspension with auto-leveling air assist . . . the works, but I think we all realize, it's an SUV, not a real dedicated tow vehicle.
BTW, the Veracruz has a stnd 3500 towing capacity . . . still no word on a "Tow Package" for the new comer to Hyundai yet. . . .
Right now, just a factory HARNESS would be the Bomb!
NOTE: As per manual, make sure your nicely burn in at least 1200 NON-TOWING miles BEFORE you start towing anything with your new vehicle!!
2007 Santa Fe Limited AWD with Premium and Touring packages
Dark Cherry Red with beige leather interior
http://www.koreanautoimports.com/store/product_info.php?cPath=31_27_51&products_- id=467
The site has many mods for the Santa Fe.
Enjoy.