2009 Hyundai Santa Fe Crossover SUV

Pros
* Build quality
* Instruments/controls
* Passenger and cargo room

Cons
* Acceleration (GLS)
* 3rd-row room and entry/exit

Vehicle Highlights
The 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe is largely unchanged. This midsize crossover SUV comes in GLS, SE, and top-line Limited trims. All offer front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive that allows locking in a 50/50 front/rear power split. All Santa Fes have a V6 engine. The GLS has a 185-hp 2.7-liter, while SE and Limited have a 242-hp 3.3-liter. GLS is available with manual or automatic transmission. SE and Limited have a 5-speed automatic. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. All models seat five, but an available Touring Package adds a 50/50 split 3rd-row bench seat. An auxiliary audio-input jack with USB port is newly standard on all 2009 Santa Fe models. The SE's Touring Package now includes a power driver seat.

COMPETITION
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choices are the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Kia Borrego, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Venza. The Hummer H3 adds a crew-cab pickup truck bodystyle for 2009, while the Dodge Durango adds a gas/electric hybrid model.