It's always a toss up between multiple uses.. commuting vrs towing. I know
a few people who tow with escapes, and other small to mid size suvs.
Granted they aren't going to pull 5000lbs but then if that was what was
being towed you're right a purpose built vehicle is required.

After seeing the specs of vehicles like the escape and dodge nitro.. both
with 3500lbs ratings i'd edge towards them as a next vehicle simple
because the santa fe isn't quite in the same playing field.

Thanks for your input though as it makes perfect sense.. even if for 90%
of my use towing isn't a requirement.

Afaik the Santa Fe is built on a Sonata frame , the SF
will have a lesser Towing Rating than the Snotty because
it weighs more, for every pound on the same chassis the
LESS it can tow.  towing 'guts' (HP, Torque ) have very
little to do with towing ,weight, chassis 'guts' ,
wheelbase, braking, rim and tire stats are what are
important to how it 'tows' .............

Personally if I were wanting to tow I would buy the 'tool'
that fits the job but then as far as I am concerned ALL
simply usless vehicles built on a CAR frame are
rediculous...............(if you put 4 adults and a lot of
luggage in them they are 'overloaded' )    ymmv.

Good luck

Yes I have owned my 2002 elantra since sept 2001 and while i have had my
share of problems it wouldn't put me off buying another hyundai.

The next vehicle i buy will have a little more guts for towing but i'm put
off because hyundai doesn't state the towing details for the santa fe ?? It
certainly seems to have more guts than the Escape.

Ford Escape V6 3.0 l
Horsepower 200@6,000  
Torque (lb.-ft.@rpm)  193@4,850  
Towing Rating 3500 lbs

Hyundai Sana Fe V6 3.3 l
Horsepower 242@6000
Torque (lb.-ft.@rpm)  226@4500
Towing Rating ?????? some sites say 2000lbs

Do you guys recommend buying a Hyundai ?