We've got a 07 FWD version, haven't had any major complaints or problems,
and 07 was the first year for the new Sante Fe.

I have a Sonata that shares the same engine and, I believe, the same
transmission.  It has 32,000 trouble free, smooth running miles.  A few
years ago I used to laugh at Hyundai, but they are now a well made car that
offers very good value.  The Santa Fe is nice, very nice.

Purchased an 07 for my wife in June to replace her Durango.  We both
love this car.  So much in fact that in August I purchased a 2nd Ltd
AWD to replace my Jeep GC Ltd.  I like it even better.  Between us
we've put on nearly 30K miles and they're a joy to drive.

MR> Just curious if anyone has any first- hand experience with these.
MR> Consumer Reports just rated it #1 in the mid-sized SUV category, they
MR> offer $2000
MR> cash back they end of month, and the

Well this past Saturday I traded my baby (2005 Tiburon GT V6) for a 2008
Santa Fe Limited with Pkg 16 (towing, 3rd row seats, Rear Seat
Entertainment) FWD. I know you asked about AWD but judging from the rest of
your post you are new to Hyundai and I figure you'd probably appreciate any
feedback. Besides unless in AWD mode the two should have very similar
driving feel.

In the Limited edition, new for 2008 vs 2007 is the excellent 10 Speaker
605W Infinity 6 Disk CD player with XM Satellite radio as standard. Also
standard is a tilt / slide moonroof.

The vehicle is excellent in the road - smooth, quiet and poised. It also
has good power and the engine is refined. Fit and finish are excellent.

Another home run from Hyundai. You need to test drive one yourself. You
will be amazed.

MR> 'best warranty in the business.' I took one for a test drive two days
MR> ago for about 15 minutes, and really liked it.

The warranty is the best in the business and that is largely why I have
purchased 6 Hyundais ever the past 19 years.

Best Regards
Wayne Moses <wayne.moses@comcast.net> Tue, 18 Mar 2008 07:47:07 -0500