The 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS FWD offers an attractive blend of comfort, reliability, and performance, making it an excellent choice for families and everyday drivers alike. With its spacious interior and user-friendly technology, this SUV stands out in its class. In this review, we’ll delve into everything that makes the Santa Fe a solid contender in the crowded SUV market. From engine performance to interior comfort, we’ll cover all the bases, and provide you with an insightful look at what you can expect from this vehicle.
Performance and Handling
Let’s start with the heart of the beast – the performance. The Santa Fe is powered by a 2.7-liter V6 engine that cranks out a respectable 185 horsepower. It’s coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission, which adds a touch of old-school engagement for those who enjoy a hands-on driving experience. When you’re behind the wheel, you’ll appreciate how smoothly the engine responds, especially during city drives and highway merges. The front-wheel-drive configuration enhances stability, and with a turning radius of 34.4 feet, you can navigate tight spots without breaking a sweat.
Fuel Economy
Now, let’s talk fuel economy. The 2007 Santa Fe boasts an EPA rating of 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. This is decent for an SUV of its size, allowing you to enjoy road trips without constantly worrying about gas stations. With a fuel tank capacity of 19 gallons, you’re looking at a range of about 380 miles in the city and around 475 miles on the highway, making it a reliable companion for your journeys.
Interior Comfort and Cargo Space
Step inside, and you’re welcomed by a spacious interior, comfortably seating five passengers. The front seating area offers a generous 40.2 inches of headroom and an impressive 42.6 inches of legroom, ensuring that both driver and front passenger can stretch out during long drives. The second row doesn’t skimp on space either, with up to 39.6 inches of headroom and 36.8 inches of legroom. Plus, with a total passenger volume of 108 cubic feet, say goodbye to cramped rides!
Cargo Capacity
Need to haul groceries, sports gear or luggage for a weekend getaway? The Santa Fe has you covered. With 30.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding your load is a breeze, thanks to the 60/40 split-folding rear seats. Flip those seats down, and you’ll unveil a whopping 77.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity, perfect for those big trips or moving day errands.
Safety Features and Ratings
When it comes to safety, the 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe doesn’t skimp. It’s equipped with advanced safety features including four-wheel anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags that safeguard both front and rear passengers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has given the Santa Fe outstanding ratings, scoring a perfect 5 out of 5 in frontal driver and passenger tests. Overall, the Santa Fe offers peace of mind, letting you focus on the road ahead.
Technology and Connectivity
Let’s not forget about technology. The Santa Fe comes with a straightforward AM/FM/MP3 audio system that includes a CD player with six speakers. You’ll find power windows and door locks, a remote keyless entry system with an alarm, and even cruise control – all designed to make your driving experience as enjoyable and convenient as possible. The interior design is well-thought-out, featuring a full carpeting setup, a tilt/telescoping steering column, and a multifunction console that provides easy access to your essentials.
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Spacious interior with plenty of legroom and headroom.
- Decent fuel economy for an SUV.
- Strong safety ratings and features.
- Ample cargo space for all your belongings.
- Economical entry point with a starting price around $21,640.
- Cons:
- Some drivers may prefer a more modern engine option.
- Limited advanced technology compared to newer models.
- Ride comfort can feel slightly firm over rough surfaces.
Conclusion
In summary, the 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS FWD is a reliable and practical SUV that meets the needs of families and everyday drivers alike. With a solid combination of performance, comfort, safety, and cargo space, this vehicle makes for an appealing option in the used car market. While it may lack some modern bells and whistles found in newer models, what it offers is a tried-and-true driving experience backed by a reputable warranty. If you’re on the hunt for a dependable mid-size SUV that won’t break the bank, the Santa Fe is definitely worth considering.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Santa Fe serves as a reminder that a solid SUV isn’t just about the newest features, but about reliability, comfort, and trust. Whether it’s daily commutes or spontaneous family road trips, this vehicle stands up to the challenge, making it a worthwhile investment.
