"Traction control and antilock brakes become standard on all Santa Fe models for 2006. The larger of Hyundai's two compact SUVs is available in two trim levels. A base GLS model returns, and the top-line LX model is renamed Limited. Both have front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. GLS comes standard with a 2.7-liter V6 and a 4-speed automatic transmission. A 3.5-liter V6 with a 5-speed automatic is standard on Limited, optional on GLS. Both transmissions include a manual shift gate. Front side airbags and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard on all models. Hyundai's warranty is among the industry's longest: 5-years/60,000-mi. basic, 10/100,000 powertrain, 5/unlimited roadside assistance."

"Hyundai will have a new Santa Fe for 2006--and a new plant near Montgomery, Alabama to build it. The replacement is based on Hyundai's redesigned '06 Sonata sedan, due in the first half of '05. Sources say the new Santa Fe will be more a true midsize SUV with V6 power only, available 3-row seating, more upscale options, and higher prices. It aims at the Nissan Murano, Toyota Highlander and similar car-based crossovers in the low- to mid-$30,000 bracket.
Santa Fe's move upmarket makes room for a new entry-level Hyundai SUV, the 2005 Tucson. Based on Hyundai's Elantra compact sedan, it's a 5-passenger 4-dr offering front-wheel drive or optional AWD in three trim levels. The base GL uses a 140-hp 2.0-liter 4-cyl with manual or automatic transmission. Santa Fe's 2.7-liter V6 furnishes about 173 hp in the GLS and top-line LX and includes automatic. All Tucsons include front side airbags and head-protecting front/rear curtain side airbags, plus air conditioning, power windows and locks, and heated power mirrors. V6 models add tire-pressure monitor and CD stereo. Options include ABS with traction control, leather upholstery, and heated front seats. The available AWD normally powers the front wheels, but can send up to 50 percent power aft if needed; a dashboard button locks in a 50/50 split. Tucson is sized close to the rival Ford Escape and Honda CR-V, measuring 170.3 inches long, about 71 inches wide and some 66 inches high on a 103.5-inch wheelbase. Hyundai pegs maximum cargo volume at 39.9 cu ft. Hyundai's Kia division will offer a Tucson with some differences in appearance and features, probably under the Sportage nameplate. Prices won't be announced until just before the on-sale date, but one source suggests a $17,000-$22,000 range for Tucson.
Besides a redesigned Santa Fe, Hyundai will reportedly offer a larger 2006 SUV aimed at the likes of Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot. We think this will turn out to be a retrimmed Kia Sorento. That's because the '06 Sorento is slated for a number of changes, including a new 3.8-liter V6, 5-speed automatic transmission, independent rear suspension, and likely a stretched model with 3 row seating for up to 7 or 8."

"Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are five-passenger vehicles.
Our Best Buys include Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Mazda Tribute, and Mercury Mariner. Our Recommended picks are Honda Element, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Liberty, Kia Sportage, and Subaru Forester.
Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Rav4 are new or significantly redesigned."