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 81 through 90 of 157.00
  • Waste of money - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    Since purchasing my Santa Fe a year ago, I have had nothing but problems. Within 2 weeks I had to spend over $1500 on repairs, and that wasnt the end. The windshield was not placed in properly (apparently a common problem with these cars), causing the passenger side to have a large leak any time it rains. The gas gauge does not read properly, and will say the tank is empty a day after it is filled up. The seat heaters do not work (the passenger button controls the driver seat, and the passenger heater does not work at all). The a/c and heat are on constantly at full blast, there is no way to turn it down or off. I could go on about the problems I have had with this car, and unfortunately Hyundai will not cover any of the costs to repair these problems. I am counting down the days until I can buy a new one. I will never buy a Hyundai again.

  • 08 Santa Fe SE FWD joins the family - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    Just added the SF to our group of cars. We have had an 06 Azera for 1.5 years and it has been a trouble-free and enjoyable car to drive. When adding a vehicle due to a teen driver coming of age, I passed my 04 Element to the kid and was looking for the right blend of space, comfort, performance and value. I drove the Rogue, Murano, Pilot, Sequoia, Sportage, Tucson and Veracruz. The Santa Fe offered me the best combination for the qualities I wanted. The SE is very well put together, quiet, roomy and my first tank of spirited suburban driving returned 20mpg...surprised for sure at that. Hyundai has gotten the build and materials issues handled. Well watch durability over time.

  • Two Years and Still Happy - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    Weve had this vehicle for almost two years now (48,000 KM) and still love it. It looks great and weve had zero service issues with it thus far. The only two small issues that we have with it would be the not-too-great gas mileage and a bizarre helicopter type sound in the car if one rear window is open when there are no others open - strange problem, but we quickly learned not to do that! We are still very happy with the vehicle and have since recommended it to others who have also bought a Santa Fe!

  • Best SUV on the market - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    I purchased my Santa Fe about 2 1/2 weeks ago and I do not regret it one bit. So far it as been fun to drive. I am getting about 20 to 21 mpg which is not bad for a small SUV. The interior is very comfortable- my kids love it. It has great storage in the back for all your kids sport equipment. The Exterior- the color (Midnight Blue) is beautiful it sparkles in the sunlight. Overall this is a nice car for the money. Also, note in Car and Drive it was rated one of the top SUVs- The Nissan Murano beat it only on speed (I believe) but it won everything else.

  • Excellent - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    Ex-owner of a Pontiac Grand Prix I was somewhat apprehensive about getting a Santa Fe. However after 2 months I have no regrets at all in having purchased the Santa Fe. The interior is spacious and well made. The exterior is an eye opener compared to the previous models. The drive is smooth and very comparible to the Grand Prix which was superb. The handling is very good. No regrets what so ever would recommend it to anybody.

  • Excellent - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    We purchased this SUV a couple of months ago.I trade in a Dodge Caravan 2005. This Santa Fe 2008 so far is an excellent vehicle inside comfort for family. Kids love it. Gas could be better but not that bad.

  • Biggest mistake I ever made - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    I purchased the limited AWD, tried out all sorts of SUV. Warranty was part of the decision factor. For a 30,000 auto, you would think they would have put the lights to stay on after you turn off your key. Nope not there ( I was told it did but no it does not) Does not auto lock the doors after you reach the 12 or 15 miles an hour like most cars do. After reading the manual I find out that when you lock in AWD it turns off at 19 miles an hour. I could not believe it so I call Hyundai and they told me yes that it does. So what is the point in having AWD? I have had it 5 days now and ready to trade it in. Rides good except the back seat vibrates more than it should.

  • Im in Love - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    When my wife and I wanted a compact SUV the usual suspects were top on our list. Toyota, Honda, and Nissan were our first choice. But with one look at the New 08 Santa Fe and I was in love. The comfort level was out of this world. The seats are supportive yet cozy. The SE model came with the upgraded fabric which is soft and well appointed. Controls are laid out well and are easy to reach, especially with the steering wheel mounted controls. The cool blue gauges are easy on the eyes and nice too look at. Handling is also sharp and responsive. Looking at the reflectors for the reading lamps you will see that even the smallest details on this ute are polished and refined.

  • I dont get Hyundai... - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

    ...for making a car with this kind of transmission. I liked the Santa Fe until the experiences I have had with the transmission. It does ruin the driving experience. And to make matters worse, Hyundai service tells me nothing is wrong with it when there clearly is a problem. No transmission shifts like this. It clearly is slipping and it definitely does not help the poor gas mileage figures that the car already has.

  • Loved my Santa Fe - 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe
    By -

Hyundai Santa Fe Reviews By Year:
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