2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
Santa Fe knows that way into hearts of dog lovers
Sun, Dec 28th 2008
| VEHICLE SPECIFICATIONS | |
|---|---|
| type | 5 door, suv - mid, awd |
| msrp | $21,690 |
| trans | automatic |
| gas mi. | 21mpg/26mpg |
| rating |  |
The Hyundai marketing folks like to label the spunky Santa Fe SUV as an "urban crossover" vehicle.
This means that while the Santa Fe has the ability to go off-roading via the available all-wheel-drive transmission, it's actually better meant for the paved pathways of an urban or suburban environment.
In other words, where 98 percent of us drive 100 percent of the time.
The design of the Santa Fe is a wonderful blend of the Toyota Highlander and the Honda Pilot, two of its main competitors in the crowded mid-size SUV market -- and two top DogCars as well. Hyundai calls it "assertive grace" and likens the Santa Fe's appearance to that of an Olympic speed skater.
The rear cargo area is squared off to make headroom for the optional third row seats, making great for small and medium-sized dog crates and barriers. And the Santa Fe's second row climate controls help keep your pups cozy without roasting the driver too.
Driving the Santa Fe is a delight because you don't feel like you are driving an SUV. The handling is quick and responsive around turns while acceleration is more than adequate for any type of driving. And don't be afraid to take the Santa Fe off-road or in the snow because the all-wheel-drive and electronic stability control are made to keep you moving in the right direction.
Urban Crossover? Perhaps. But for dog lovers, it's a purebred puppy pleaser too.
-- Keith Turner
Carguy Comments: The Hyundai Santa Fe was the first production model designed in the automaker's Irvine, CA design studio. It is available in either manual or automatic transmissions, front or all-wheel-drive and a choice of two-sizes of V-6 engines: a 2.7-liter engine producing 185 horsepower, or a 3.3-liter that will kick out 242 hp. Cargo capacity is 79.3 cubic feet.
Barking Lot Banter: Hyundai Santa Fe is pup-friendly blend of SUV versatility with a powerful, sedan-like ride.
Comments
Had a 2001 Santa fe and could fit 2 400 Vari kennels in the back, or 1 400 varikennel and a boatload of show gear + a loose dog.
I loved it!!
The newer ones have even more room
2010-01-26 11:45:49
Just bought one last night, cannot wait to pick it up. Our puppy will be pleased!
2009-11-13 13:35:09
Loved my first one so much, I got a second one when the first had to be replaced. With the back seats folded down, my 3 large breed dogs have plenty of room to lay down.
2009-08-04 13:16:41
Looking forward to buying one!
2009-07-28 15:40:42
Hi, My name is Lance and I can say the people with pets who have purchased this vehicle have been very satified… If your looking to test-drive on email me at ldavis@vandergriffsales.com
2010-05-03 12:43:23