Car Statistics: Hyundai - Santa Fe Series 02 (4 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

Good looks have clearly been inspired by some posher rivals, most notably the Lexus RX300.

Handling (3 stars)

The low-geared steering lacks feel, but grip levels are impressively high and behaviour is composed. Four wheel drive provides plenty of grip on slippery roads.

Comfort (3 stars)

Good ride quality helps to absorb bumps and the well-designed seats give excellent support. Motorway refinement is knocked by excessive wind noise.

Quality (4 stars)

Massively improved over the previous model, the Santa Fe now has the quality to take on any mid sized SUV rival. Unconvincing fake plastic trim in the cabin is the only real complaint.

Performance (3 stars)

The 2.2 litre diesel engine is loud when worked hard but gives reasonable performance. The V6 petrol sounds nicer and goes harder - but will be prohibitively thirsty for most.

Roominess (4 stars)

The Santa Fe rivals people-carriers for utility thanks to lots of space, good stowage accomodation and the option of the easy-to-use third row of seats.

Costs (4 stars)

Servicing costs are very competitive, although 10,000 mile intervals are short compared to some rivals. The diesel offers reasonable fuel economy but the petrol is terrible. Depreciation should be well contained.

Value (4 stars)

The Santa Fe looks expensive compared to rivals like the Kia Sorento and Ssangyong Kyron, but seven-seat practicality and excellent standard equipment should be enough to persuade many of its charms.

Stereo (3 stars)

Standard stereo offers good sound, with a more advanced upgraded version also available. Satnav untested.