Used 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe Consumer Reviews
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Love it!
This is my first SUV, every winter I wish I had a 4-wheel drive so I researched online and decided on the Santa Fe. Very glad I did, I love it! I've gotten a lot of compliments. I already owned an Elantra so I got the owner loyalty rebate along with the special incentive rebate that was going on at the time.
Good car
Had my Hyundai for a few months now and am loving it. There are a couple of things I wish were a little different but overall it is a nice small SUV. The interior and exterior are really nice and I love the way it drives.
- GLS 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,00019 mi away
- GLS 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,26343 mi away
- GLS 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,595126 mi away
Great family and work suv
The SantaFe is a great reliable SUV to have. Its a great SUV for families and for work. It not the greatest for fuel economy, but it isnt bad compared to most other SUV's. The SantaFe is amazing for storage for vacation, tools, and supplies that you need to move because of the back seat that folds down to the ground. Buy this SUV and you will love it so much.
2005 Santa Fe
I love my 2005 Santa Fe-I never knew I would save money on car insurance! I was expecting to pay more, but didn't. I love the car-like ride and as many have said, those little extras. I am disappointed in the fuel economy however, it's only a V6-not a V8. My parents have a Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo and it gets roughly the same milage and it's a V8! Aside from all that, it's a wonderful mid-sized SUV with plenty of space and standard features that make the big three worry: GM, Chrylser, Ford I like it!
the lx 4x4
A fun suv to drive with a very stylish look. Fuel economy is not bad. The one drawback is that the buttons on the steering wheel for the criuse control are NOT lighted for night time driving. Could have installed a oil pressure gauge on dash instead of a lite. Overall very nice...
What a surprise!
I live in NY. Fearing my husband's safety after 9-11, we bought this vehicle (a 2002)so he could commute the 120 miles each day to NYC. Driving the Brooklyn Queens Expressway and the Long Island Expressway everyday is test enough for any cars reliablity. With 100,007 miles (and going) we have never had one problem with this vehicle, not even a flat tire. We just change the oil every 3000 miles. It has all the extra features to keep you comfortable on a long commute. It is a great weekend get away car. You can fit most anything in the back. Its easy to park tight spaces and works well on our shopping trips in lower Manhattan. I recommend this car to everyone. I am planning to buy a new one.
My Lil' Kim
I bought the Fwd 6 cylinder, and it definitely has the get-up-and-go. It has the power when you need it, such as having to enter on the highway with little room to accelerate. I find it to be the perfect size for all my needs. Way to go Hyundai!
Smile
I have had absolutely no problems with my Santa Fe during the first year of ownership. It has a well thought out interior for space and is a comfortable long road trip experience.
Hyundai Santa Fe
Love it! Thought it would be small after having an extended van. Like the inside and love the stereo - great for in traffic concerts. Great vehicle. The warranty is great and the standard features are excellent.
Santa Fe 2005
Excellent value for the money. Good overall quality and fun to drive. Many extras that would cost more on competitive models, plus you cannot beat the warranty and free roadside assistance.
Ya Gets What Ya Pays For
For the money, you probably can't go too far wrong here, but overall this is probably just an average SUV for its class. The exterior styling is a bit radical for some tastes, but it does stand out well in a crowd, and doesn't have that "shoebox on wheels" look most SUVs have. The handling on the 4WD model is a bit mushy, and the fuel economy isnt great for its size, but it does have enough zip when you need it. I've found the seats less than totally comfortable on long trips, but otherwise the interior is decent. The reliability has been good so far, and the warranty is unbeatable. Overall, while not outstanding or overly impressive in any one area, probably still a great bargain for the money
Hyundai Got It Right
The car was presented at the dealership in flawless shape (except for a burnt out map light bulb). I have purchased new Toyotas and Hondas over the years and the fit and finish on my Santa Fe is just as good and the price can't compare. Thousands cheaper than the comparable Japanese models and a bit more stylish by my taste. The 3.5 liter engine has more than enough power and the ride is firm and comfortable. This car is the best in its size class.
Love It !!!!!
This is probably the best auto maker out there. After working for GM/Delphi and knowing what they make and owning GM's my entire life I wanted something made better, more reliable and an alround better deal. I found it with Hyundai. I bought a SAnte Fe and a Tiburon GT this year...that is how great they are!
Just Purchased
We were sceptical about buying a Hyundai at first, husband sold in late 80s and it was wasn't pretty at that time, HOWEVER after doing research and test driving, we are surprisingly happy with the design and the performance of our 2005 Santa Fe. For the money and the options there is NO comparison. Hyundai beats the competition hands down. The warranty and dealer incentives are the icing on the cake. Hopefully it will be a dependable vehicle and we will definately update our review. Some of the reviews are comical at best (illuminated cruise control?) that would not be noticed if everything wasn't already illuminated. Ignore the Reliability rating above-doesnt count =)
Sante Fe
I like driving an suv that handles like a car. It is very roomy and easy to manuever. I wish the mileage was better. but overall, I am very pleased with my Sante Fe and would definitely purchase another when the time comes
Best car I have ever owned
It is so much fun and roomy. Everyone that rides with me or drives my Sante Fe loves it. I am very happy with it and I dont want anything else. Thank you.
Best SUV for the money
LOVE THIS VEHICLE!!! What a value, smooth handling like a car with plenty of room. 2nd Hyundai in a row, had a Sonata. May never go back to another brand, definitely not an American mad car.
Disappointed at mileage
Seems like a pretty solid car and handles very nice. But I do not like where the heater and air conditioner controls are located. You have to take your eyes off the road to adjust because they are located so low in the compartment. For the size, the gas mileage is terrible.
best yet
it`s all we ever wanted in a car and more the more we drive it the better we like it. we get about 25 mpg hwy! I also have a pickup is the reason for the low milage. all i can say is its a good auto!!!
Wonderful SUV, can't do better
We test drove a lot of small, mid SUVs. Had a Jeep Liberty nearly blow up on the road from a gas leak, loved the RAV-4 and CR-V. Finally went to Vermont to see the Santa Fe; wow this car beat all the others on the first drive. Has everything you want, front wheel drive, with all wheel drive sending power to rear wheels when needed, V6 to tow our boat, great styling and interior, KILLER stereo, THIS VEHICLE ROCKS. It has the best feature I've ever seen on an SUV, a shiftronic system to allow down or upshifting at any time (such as on a hill pulling a boat). Bought the car on the first test drive and I've never bought before without at least two trip to the dealer to haggle over price.
Great Transportation
Originally test drove a Sonata, loved it and my wife saw the Santa Fe. Test drove it and liked everything about it. We just got rid of a 1996 astro van and wanted mor of an automobile ride. fantastic stereo-plenty loud and excellent quality.
hyundai review frwn
the vehicle is nice to drive , but the service and warranty mean nothing. i have had problems with there home office, the dealer itself and the way the handle their customers, if there is any warranty work to get done , seems they have to get hold of there service rep. and then you don't kmow when your going to here from them, you can complain all you want and bring warranty issues to thier attention and you might as well have been talking to the wall. i have had issues that have been on going and were resolved 6 mos. later-- do you call this customer service i don't. seems they are more concerned with thier bottom line, and they only seem to do whats nesc.
Santa Fe
Love this SUV. Had Buicks and Ford before but this vehicles out preforms but. Very nice vehicle and very good price.
Great until you break
The Santa Fe is a woderful vehicle until you want to break; mainly when it's raining, snowing or you're going down a hill. It keeps on going when you want to stop. I'm surprised I haven't gotten into an accident yet (knock on wood). When I told the mechanic at Sussman, he said that it was a safety feature and I shouldn't worry about it. How can I not worry about potentially running into another car is beyond me. Other than that, the SUV rides really well. I was skeptical because of their rep. in the past but they've made a believer out of me. Hyundai is a good vehicle that's great on gas. Thanks for listening.
Sant Fe - AWD 4x4
This vehicle is a pleasure to drive. The only drawback is the CD stereo. In order to hear its quality, and power, it must be played loud. Everything else is great. I only wish that they would make an offer an extended version. Then it would be perfect.
'05 Santa Fe 4Cyl FWD *(Canadian Model)
Have owned this Santa Fe for 3 months. Surprisingly pleased with the performance and gas mileage. Currently getting 31.88 mpg with mostly "around town" driving...only 3 trips over an hour in duration. Vehicle has lots of get-up-and-go due no doubt to a very well geared 5 speed manual transmission.Exterior style and ergonomics of interior very pleasing. Feels very solid and tight on the road. Have no reliabily info yet.
Love my Santa Fe
I have had my 2004 Santa Fe for 8 months now. I love it. I have plenty of room for my family of 4. It is great for traveling and shopping. Going through drive through restrants is a breeze. So is loading and unloading groceries from the back. We just got back from a trip to the Smokie Mountains. My husband commented that it was a joy to drive. Smooth handling like a car. The only draw back is when going through parking lots, tourists didn't hear the engine and we had to wait for them to get out of our way.
Great mid-size SUV to own
The fact that the vehicle has plenty of room, good stereo system, sun roof and window are a plus. Good turning radius! Plenty of cargo room if back seats are dropped down. The VERY BEST WARRANTY I have seen. Universal Nissan staff are quick to respond and go out of their way to be of service. I am very pleased with this purchase.
Not trouble free
Like the ride and performance. Fuel economy very dissapointing, Does not come close the the epa ratings. Have had transmission replaced. Cruise and speedometer malfuntion. Dealer was not effecient in handling the claim. Did not seem to have experience in diagnosis and repair. contantly have to fight to get fair service. For a new car it is not trouble free. It is a good thing they have 100k warranty as I may need it.
Great Vehicle
When my husband and I first purchased our hyundai we were a little apprehensive because it's a newer SUV on the market and the price was so great but I must say that I am extremly pleased with our purchase. I would recommend this SUV to anyone.
I love this SUV!
This has been a fantastic vehicle for a commuter driving 90+ miles five days a week. The fuel economy isn't all that great, but I feel safe and I love the ride. I drive over quite a few mountains and steep hills, it handles perfectly in all kinds of precipitation including 10" of snow covered ice. Fan tends to blow in your face or off parts of the vehicle back into your face.
fun,affordable luxury
The Sante Fe is truly my favorite SUV of them all, it handles unbelievably well in winter conditions, the sleek look makes it a real eye catcher and the heated leather seats are a luxury. The interior is very roomy, plenty of cargo space. It's a little hard on fuel. An overall fun affordable luxury SUV.
Santa Fe
I just traded in the Elantra for the Santa Fe and I love it. Great in bad weather.
I own it and I luv it
Smooth ride and quiet operation. The 3.5L is a fast, efficient, and stable performer. Interior layout is roomy and comfortable except my dog has trouble sitting on the console. The back seat area is roomy for even large adults and there is plenty of luggage space. The dash layout is easily viewed during operation. I'm looking forward to my next long trip to find out the real feel.
Love it!
If it was just me, I would keep it and drive it into the ground! I also love the bright red color!
Better than expected
I used to drive a company car, after 10 yrs of "worry free" driving, I looked at every possibility out there. Test drove everything from Scion a's to Escape's, RAV4's. I knew I needed something to drive but had no idea what. I started paying attention to the cars in the road, and kept seeing Hyundais, Elantras; Santa Fe's, so I decided to check them out. With a limited budget I had to get the most I could with the money I had. I finally decided on a 1yr old Santa Fe with 10K miles. The price was definitely fair, and ever since I have enjoyed this car more than any of the other free cars I've ever driven. Whenever something has to be fixed, the warranty picks it up, and I am left very happy.
Wonderful SUV
We love our Santa Fe. You will love it too.
Love My Hyundai
I like the feel of the vehicle. I have a good view of the road and other cars near me. It steers responsively and can make a tight turn when you need to. The seats are comforable and there is plenty of leg room. It's peppy and can move out when you have to. The controls placement and interior design of compartments, etc. are great. We love it.
Another Look - 6 Mos later
This is a followup to the original review done shortly after purchase. I continue to like the peppy engine and comfort, but a major weakness has been the construction, I have never owned a vehicle that dents so easy, sheet metal as soft as soup cans. The vehicle is garaged, does not go to work with me, and is parked away from other cars. I have paid out over $200 in dent removal, with my next move to see the Hyundai rep. It has been very disappointing - and only has 3000 miles!
hyundai 2005 santa fe notes
Drives like a car and is very quiet. The only thing lacking was running board or step. The smaller engine performs very well and gets great mileage. Considering the warranty and all the extras, I strongly recommend this SUV as an excellent buy. I had custom running boards put on and they works fine.
Cool SUV
Have had our Santa Fe for three months. Have taken two trips from Ohio to New Jersey and back. Ride is every bit as comfortable as our Grand Marquis. Cruised Interstate 80 across Pa. at 75 mph and it handled quite well. Mileage was about 26 mpg as advertised.
Great car for the money
I got more for my money than someone buying the Honda CRV. Mine came with a V6, CRV does not, mine is 540 lbs heavier than the CRV which gives it a better ride. Mine has a 3.5 L engine, CRV is about a 2.4 L engine. Plus I got the roof racks (side rails) included. CRV it's an extra. I drove a new CRV and I like the feel of Santa FE much better. An all around sturdier car than the CRV, in my opinion.
Great Santa Fe
Fantastic auto --Love the red color They could boost the sound system
Great SUV Value
Santa Fe has been a great vehicle to drive. Handles nicely, peppy 3.5L engine, great visibility, nice design and the 5 year, 60K miles warranty was a big incentive to buy. Now I will have a vehicle still under warranty when the payments aare finished.
"LOVE THIS CAR"
My wife researched and sort out this car. We've always bought Chrysler products (still do) but this is a car that has impressed both of us. It seems more like a Lexus to us with all of the accesories that are standard on this vehicle. We are impressed with this car.
I love my Huyndai...
I was a Toyata girl for more than 14yrs.I decided to trade the 2000 mini van in for a small suv. The Highlander was my choice,however I saw the sante fe all over the road and heard of the great warrantee. I went for a test drive and the purchase was a no brainer.It drives great,looks good and is fun ,handles great in bad weather and best of all you get it all with affordable pricing.I never thought I would switch from Toyota,but I did and I am happy about it. Huyndai has come a long way. You get a lot for your buck....
My Experience with the Sante Fe
In my opinion the Sante Fe is a great value. It handles great, and has sufficient power. I even tow a small camper with it, loaded with supplies. It has a well designed interior with fold down seats for more cargo area when needed. Gives you a decent ride, even when fully loaded. Roof racks are a plus and comes with the best warranty available. And it is equipped where others are options. I'm satisfied with mine.
So far So good!
I loved the body styling compared to the box like appearance of other SUVs in its class. The interior is pretty comfy. The leather seats are not very soft but the give good support. I am disappointed that the passenger seat does not heat up as represented. The driver seat nicely heats and warms your lower back. Steering is tight. The gas pedal is too touchy. Barely pressing the pedal and it jumps into action full speed ahead! It is difficult to get used to and a bit annoying. Today I loaded a tall size hot water tank into it. Dropped the back seat and pushed the front seat forward and in it went with room to spare. Smiles all around! My friends find the back seat very comfortable.
Satisfied
I love the Santa Fe. Affordable price, good warranty, competitive performance.. Korean cars have gotten a lot better over the past 10 years
I LOVE THIS SUV
I bought this car 3 days ago. I have driven it 270 miles already. I am on a quarter of a tank. I think that is decent. I had an Elantra before this that got 320 miles to a tank. So for the size of the vehicle not too bad. The interior is so classy. Any one who didn't know the price would think you spent a fortune on this vehicle. Seats are so very comfy. And short people don't have to sit on top of the steering wheel to see where they are going or to reach the petals. Overall I LOVE THIS VEHICLE