Apr 22, 2005 12:50 AM
12056 Views
(Updated Oct 04, 2008 03:52 PM)
I purchased a Hyundai Santa Fe LX about 1 year ago and I have been very pleased. The price and 10 year/ 100,000 mile warranty were certainly the main reasons that I entertained the idea of test driving one, but I soon found many other reasons to own one! I was tired of driving a mini-van and the stigma that comes with that type of vehicle (it became so boring). I, then, purchased a small Chrysler Sebring convertible and while it was more fun to drive, I was soon disgusted with the inefficient interior space and some less than satisfactory issues of quality. The Hyundai dealer told me that the Santa Fe was the number one selling vehicle, at that time, in the US. I do not always believe everything that I am told so, I also looked up information on it with Consumer Report and read reviews on the internet…not to mention I had been seeing so many of them! The Santa Fe had everything I was looking for…excellent ratings from Consumer Report, 4WD, strut front suspension and independent rear suspension, Anti-lock Braking system, a little more space without driving an 8 cylinder, a little more sporty than a mini-van, power moon roof, dual side and front air bags, cruise control, heated front seat (I love this in our Chicago winters!), leather seats, remote keyless entry, roof rack, alloy wheels, power windows/locks and mirrors, 6 CD changer, (it was cute too) and so much more! Everything I listed, beside the moonroof and roof rack, were standard features…NOT UPGRADES! I have also found that there were so many clever little ideas that were put into this vehicle to maximize use of space and efficiency. The standard stereo/ cd player system is by Monsoon…not a little junk stereo! All of this for less than $26,000 USD! A year later, I am still very pleased and I have spoken to several others who own this vehicle who are just as happy with it as I am! It is getting decent gas mileage for a large 6 cylinder and I have had no maintenance issues. My only disappointments are 1) that I must also have chosen the most popular color, Pewter, because I see one exactly like mine in most every lot I drive into…and sometimes, on returning to the lot…I have accidentally walked up to the wrong vehicle! Haha! 2) There is a little road noise, but nothing too terrible. I wish it were more unique, but it is fun and so practical! I feel it was a wise investment!
