Used Hyundai Santa Fe (06-12) guide
11 February 2013
- Used Santa Fe from less than £9k
- Affordable SUV with space for seven
- Smooth ride, accurate handling
The second-generation Hyundai Santa Fe is a great-looking and practical SUV that makes an affordable and capable used proposition.
Higher-mileage second-generation examples can be found for less than £9000, but those with around 40,000 miles on the clock are available from £11-12k on the forecourts.
The engine choice is simple – there's a 186bhp 2.7-litre V6 petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel that offered 148bhp until mid-2006, and 155bhp thereafter. The diesel is our pick, because it's far more economical than the petrol and powerful enough to cope with all situations.
You can choose between five- and seven-seat versions, but we recommend that you go for the extra seating capacity. The rearmost seats are not really suitable for adults, but they can be folded down flat to reveal a huge boot. 
Trim-wise, all cars come with 17-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning and all-round electric windows as standard. We'd go for high-ranking CDX trim though, which adds climate- and cruise controls, leather seats and upgraded alloys for not a lot of extra money when buying used.
There are issues to look out for when shopping for a used Santa Fe. Firstly, there have been electrical problems reported, including faults with the heated electric seats, the stereo and poor radio reception. A more common issue, though, is the air-conditioning system, which can need regular recharging. There have also been cases of the air-con compressor drive belt developing problems.
We found these on the forecourt…
Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRDI GSI 7st
'08/08, 33,200 miles, £10,995
Kings Highway Garage
Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRDI CDX 7st
'08/08, 39,000 miles, £12,995
MI Car Limited
Read the full Hyundai Santa Fe '06-'12 used review >>
See more What Car? Approved Used Hyundais for sale >>
By Rory White
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