2006 Hyundai Santa Fe

GLS LIMITED Other

3.5L V6 Cylinder Gasoline Fuel

Automatic

KM8SC13E06U040525

Clear

Front Wheel Drive

Gasoline

Power Windows

The present (second) generation Hyundai Santa Fe was introduced for 2007. Originally, the GLS was powered by a 185-hp 2.7-liter V6. A five-speed manual transmission was standard, and a four-speed automatic was available as an option. This engine was barely more powerful than competitive four-cylinders and its fuel economy was equal to the Santa Fe's bigger V6. That engine was a 242-hp 3.3-liter with a five-speed automatic only. It was standard on the SE and Limited. Used car shoppers should primarily set their sights on this engine for Santa Fes produced through 2009. The current engine lineup debuted in 2010.For the 2007-'09 time period, the Santa Fe could be equipped with an optional third-row seat, which bumped the vehicle's passenger capacity from five to seven. It was one of the few vehicles in its class to offer such a seat, but it was only suitable for children. Also for 2009, Hyundai made a USB/iPod interface standard for every Santa Fe. An optional Infinity sound system and sunroof were added to the Limited for '08.The original, first-generation Hyundai Santa Fe was launched in 2001 as Hyundai's first foray into the SUV market. It was a solid effort. Sold until 2006, the initial model was notable for its pleasant ride and roominess. There were two engine options -- a 149-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder and a 177-hp 2.7-liter V6. The Santa Fe was available in three trim levels (GL, GLS and LX) and with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive.In road tests, we found that the original Hyundai Santa Fe handled well in most situations, both on pavement and during light-duty off-roading. However, the interior was still a work in progress, as the switchgear looked and felt cheap and plasticky. Another annoyance was the awkward placement of the spare tire underneath the vehicle. We didn't find its exterior styling to be particularly engaging either.When new, this Santa Fe was outclassed by other top crossover SUVs, but it still represents a decent used-vehicle purchase. There are a few changes to be aware of when deciding what model year to purchase. The first real improvements came for 2003 when Hyundai added a 195-hp 3.5-liter V6 to the engine lineup. It gives the SUV peppy acceleration, but fuel mileage with this engine is poor. In 2005, Hyundai discontinued the four-cylinder engine, gave the Santa Fe an interior and exterior styling refresh and made antilock brakes standard across the line. In its final year of 2006, a Limited trim level with leather seating and automatic climate control debuted.