2008 Hyundai Santa Fe Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.26/5 Average
157 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe receives minor changes. The Limited trim pads its standard equipment roster with the high-power Infinity Logic 7 CD changer audio system and a sunroof, while SE models now include standard premium seat cloth.

Pros:
  • Well-designed cabin, impressive standard safety features and crash test scores, competitive price, lengthy warranty, optional third-row seat.
Cons:
  • Excessively firm ride on SE and Limited models, lackluster automatic transmission, disappointing driving dynamics.

User Reviews:

Showing 31 through 40 of 157.00
  • My first car - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    This vehicle is my first car I purchased after doing 6 months worth of review. Im very very pleased with this vehicle, I have no regrets. I average 24.6 MPG on highways. I have had this car for only 3 months and added over 6,000 miles. Ive driven this car to four different states and had no problem. I highly recommend this vehicle.

  • Leaks - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    I purchased a used 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe with 5500 miles on it for 18,900 and then it rained saturating the rugs on the drivers side with water. Two days later it was back at the dealership. They put it through the car wash and said the leak was coming from the door and that it would be ready in two days. They then called and said they were going to keep it two weeks. I took it back home waxed it and kept it in the garage. Last Saturday it poured, I had left it outside and again the rugs were saturated with water. Resealing of the windshield didnt work. This experience has soured me on Hyundais although I really liked the feel and large cargo area. Carmax took the vehicle back.

  • Love the car but.... - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    I purchased my Santa Fe almost two years ago and I have really enjoyed the car for the entire timeuntil today. The car started jumping forward when I was traveling a low speeds or stopped at a light. A few minutes later, the ESC and oil lights illuminated in the dashboard and the car lost power. Luckily I was just two blocks from home.

  • Really nice car - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    I just traded in a 2001 BMW X5 so once I got over the BMW/Hynudai issue, I was fine. Its a great car for the money. I originally purchased the GLS but went back the next day and got the SE. I like the little extras, especially the on wheel audio controls, compass in the rear view mirror, trip computer, and more.

  • I agree...transmission problems - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    This vehicle has the absolute worse transmission I have ever experienced. It is defective between 1st and 2nd gear. What makes this more aggravating is that the dealers "acts" like nothing is wrong when the mechanics clearly experience the problem. They "allege" all the codes check out but this transmission has a slippage problem. I think Hyundai is out to screw the consumer and knows about his problem but will not acknowledge it. I am hoping that the government investigates some of the transmission complaints. This is a horrible vehicle.

  • Great vehicle for the money! - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    Having put almost 7000 miles on the Santa Fe in 4 months, I have to say that I am very satisfied. Overall a great vehicle. It is comfortable, spacious, and tows anything I can put in a 4x8 utility trailer. Gas mileage has been about 18 mpg with mostly suburban driving, but I leave it idling a lot for my daughter in the summer. Highway is about 22, but would be a lot better if I could keep it below 80. My wife frequently gets 24-26 on the interstate when she drives. Power is adequate, but not breathtaking. Overall the best value in the 20K SUV price range.

  • Great suv for the price. - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    I was about to buy Nissan Rogue, but after I drove it found it underpowered. I love and look forward to driving it. Easy to maneuver, small turning circle. I have 1,300 miles, 2/3 highway, with 18.5 to 19.5 mpg average. Sticker price was $25,000 including destination charge. Got it for $18,950. Love the underfloor storage. Great looks inside and out. Blue interior lights are awesome.

  • Truly Delightful - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    I bought my Santa fe in the middle of January and I am fully satisfied. It is a dream to drive, smooth, comfortable, powerful. I have not yet experienced the bad shift from 1st to 2nd. I am in Cdn and we have a slightly larger gallon, so bear that in mind when I say I get 22.5 miles per gallon in the city. If I am real careful and gentle about how I drive. I also looked at everything else out there before I bought and just loved all that the S.Fe had to offer and how smooth it was.

  • First Hyundai - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    Sold my beloved 94 MB and bought the Santa Fe Limited. Took very little time to get over the name issue. I purchased based on research and friends with personal experience owning various models of Hyundai. Lots of bang for the buck and the XM radio with multi-CD/MP3 is wonderful. Mileage is as advertised - we all wish for more. As of now - absolutely no complaints.

  • 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS 2.7L 4A - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    All in all a nice vehicle. The GLS is a smooth ride, and offers a fair amount of luxury at a competitive price. Its spacious cabin provides plenty of room and added compartments for the person looking for the mid-size utility vehicle. Add to that, an assortment of models and options available for those looking to customize their vehicle. Its a bit slow and sluggish on acceleration and could definitely stand to gain more horsepower. However, once up to speed it performs just fine. Id rate the car an 8 out of 10.

Hyundai Santa Fe Reviews By Year:
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