Hyundai Santa Fe is a Korean SUV manufactured as a crossover vehicle, designed based on the Hyundai Sonata platform. It was named after a Mexican city called Santa Fe. It premiered the market at the same time as the Ford Escape/ Mazda Tribute and Pontiac Aztek. Though it was heavily criticized by many journalists for weird looks, it was a favorite among the American buyers. This was evidenced by Hyundai’s failure to meet demand of the vehicle by the market. Subsequently the vehicle became Hyundai’s bestselling car and was the reason behind Hyundai’s success in the US.

The success of the Hyundai was also evidenced by several awards that include the 2008 Consumer Reports "top pick" award that the second generation Santa Fe received and the rating for being among the top 10 cars for 2008 based on the magazine's annual ratings. To add to the list of notable achievements for the car, the car also topped the 20 least expensive to insure vehicles for 2009 by Insure.com.

The first generation Santa Fe premiered the market in 2001 and is offered with an option of two engines and transmission combinations. It also comes with the option of either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. The vehicle also comes standard as a four wheel drive, while traction control is optional on the V6.

The second generation entered the market in 2007 and debuted at the 2006 North American International Auto Show. It shares an assembly line with the current generation Hyundai Sonata. The crossover SUV is available in three trim levels, i.e. the GLS, SE and Limited. The GLS and the Limited trim comes standard on a 2.4 liter four cylinder engine that produces 175 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed manual transmission is standard on the GLS, while a six-speed automatic is optional on the GLS and standard on the Limited variant. Another option is the 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 276 hp on a six-speed automatic that is optional on the Limited and standard on the SE.

Technological equipment on the Hyundai Santa Fe includes alloy wheels, satellite radio, Bluetooth and USB audio jacks, automatic headlights, cloth/leather upholstery and a power driver seat. The Limited edition comes as the luxury model, providing leather seats, having automatic climate control, heated seats and an upgraded stereo, while a navigation system with rearview camera is available across the board. The interior of the Santa Fe provides an explicit and higher level of comfort compared to similarly priced SUVs.

The engine lineup provides both power and fuel economy, while the Santa Fe's sizable cabin makes it especially family-friendly.

The midsize crossover vehicle came with option of third-row seat until 2010 and this increased passenger capacity from five to seven. The later models now provide Bluetooth as standard, while the USB/iPod audio jack was added to every Santa Fe while a towing prep package, Infinity sound system and sunroof was added to the options list.

The Hyundai Santa Fe handles well in most situations, both on pavement and during light-duty off-roading.

With the Hyundai Santa Fe you do not have to settle for second best. No need to trade off your right to luxury and new possession. The Santa Fe makes is possible for you to enjoy your new ride and still remain steady on the wallet.