2006 Hyundai Santa Fe Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.60/5 Average
44 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A new Limited trim level has been added, featuring leather seating, automatic climate control and a trip computer. The GLS gets an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and Limited models can be equipped with an all-black monochromatic color scheme.

Pros:
  • Reasonable price, strong warranty, roomy interior, long list of standard features, solid construction, good crash test scores.
Cons:
  • The 3.5-liter V6 is thirsty at the pump, soft suspension limits handling ability, no side curtain airbags.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 44.00
  • Disappointment - 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    Went with Hyundai for the warranty. Wanted a Tucson, went with the bigger engine that is only available in the Santa Fe. I do mainly city driving, stop and go. Mileage isnt even close to what they stated. Dont even get 13 miles to a gallon in town. Highway 20 to 22. Transmission is sloppy. Standard stero stinks. Had it replaced already. Had a Chrysler Concorde with a 3.3L engine for 10 years. Thought the mileage would at least be close to what the Chrysler got, 17 city. Still drive the Chrysler when I can, gas mileage is so much better. Will trade in vehicle as soon as I find something. So annoyed with gas mileage that I really dont like the vehicle.

  • Love my Santa Fe - 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    I like how it handles on the road, especially on the turns. It is much better on gas than my truck was. The AWD should be great for the winter.

  • One of the best new SUV - 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    We have tested few SUV and this one the Santa Fe has being the best ride so far.

  • Transmission - 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    I bought the Santa Fe in 2006, within a couple of months I was in having the Cruise control switch replaced and a year later I started having problems with the down shifting to 3rd. They changed out a sensor. In the winter of 09 it didnt want to go into drive when cold brought it in. Couldnt duplicate so there was "nothing wrong". Still having problem. On 4/29/10 the shifting problems started again, so I brought the car back into the shop to have them say "nothing wrong" so they reset the computer. So I picked up my car and two days later I was stuck in the parking lot not able to go anywhere. Lets say it is in the shop waiting approval for new transmission!

  • Sante Fe Proud - 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    We purchased this SUV three months ago. We are completely satisfied. We have only driven Fords for the last thirty years. Would not hesitate to purchase another Hyundai. We like everything about this SUV. It handles like a dream.

  • Wow, more bang for your Buck! - 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    Overall the ride is smooth and comfy, some bad freeway spots however bring out a little to much bouncing. Gas mileage is not a strong point but the ride and style and great price makes up for the shortfall!

  • My 2006 Santa Fe - 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    1st santa fe i,ve owned and i am pleased , as i had a new hyundia sedan in 1984 that i swore i would never purchase one again,but am pleasently surprised at this vehicle,would reccomend it to anyone.my santa fe is the 3.5 2 wheel dr.

  • Bad Rotors - 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    Rotors warp continuously. Warranted item but no easy fix. The red tape process for getting approval to replace a warranted item will have you eating blood pressure medication at age 30. Hyundai claims they have a "Bumper to Bumper" warranty for 5 years 60,000 miles. Good luck getting them to honor it. Not to mention the replacement of the wheel bearings and seals at about 15000 miles! Of course it took another 3000 miles for them to replicate the sound! Recently took a service manager for a spin and he heard it every turn but the service tech couldnt replicate, hmmm sounds familiar. Overall Hyundai promises you the best warranty but hardly delivers! Still trying to get the rotors replaced.

  • 20K and going strong - 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    After 20K+ miles in 20 months, this 06 Santa Fe hasnt had any problems. Dealer recommended oil changes/service by the book. Dealer caught one minor problem at 6K miles & repaired it (no charge). Great in traffic with ample acceleration to move as needed. Good sound system. Would like better than 2 interior color choices (taupe and grey). Body paint still looks new. Braking is still great. Interior cab for driver feels cramped with seat pushed back to its stops; have to rest left foot on foot rest; still uncomfortable with long drives. V6 highway mileage could be better.

  • Best value overall in mid-size SUVs - 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    This is my 2nd Hyundai. Traded up from an Elantra, which I loved, so when I needed a larger vehicle, the Santa Fe was my first choice. For a mid-size SUV, the price is low, the fuel economy is decent, and the warranty and overall quality are outstanding. I find the best fuel economy is about 65-70mph, keeping the RPMs below 3000. Recently moved from FL to CA with my family, 2 pets, and a trunk full of clothes & supplies, with no problems at all. Handled pretty good when I hit the remnants of a blizzard in the midwest. Acceleration is a little slow, but once it gets going, it runs real smooth. Seeing so many other Santa Fes on the road makes me feel good about the choice I made

Hyundai Santa Fe Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area