"How To Buy A Used Hyundai Santa Fe
At Wholesale Prices!"
The Hyundai Santa Fe has been providing solid performance at value pricing since its introduction for the 2001 model year. And with nearly a decade of experience under its belt, the Santa Fe has only gotten better in the midsize crossover SUV segment, now one of the fastest growing markets.
Carbuyers have fallen in love with SUVs featuring the look and functionality of a traditional SUV, but with a sportier drive and carlike fuel economy and handling. For those possibly interested in buying a used Sante Fe, here's a general overview of the available used models:
The current Hyundai Santa Fe is in its second generation, having been introduced for 2007 and with only minor changes since. It can be found in three trim: GLS, SE and Limited.
Powering the base Santa Fe GLS is a competent 2.7 liter V6 engine that produces 185 horsepower aided by variable valve timing. It's coupled with a five-speed manual transmission that was standard issue, but most have actually been outfitted with the optional four-speed automatic. While the base drive configuration is front-wheel, all-wheel drive (AWD) Santa Fe's can be found across all models.
Powering the Santa Fe SE is a more powerful 3.3 liter V6 that's good for 242 horsepower and is mated with a five-speed automatic transmission only. The Limited model comes with the same drivetrain, but also features leather upholstery, a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver seat and a 10-speaker 605-watt Infinity audio system. Some used Santa Fe Limited models can also be found with the optional rear entertainment system with wireless headphones.
This generation's interior is attractive and well-designed while possessing an overall higher comfort level than many similarly priced SUVs. A nice touch is the blue glowing dash lights, gauges and displays. Some models can also be found with the third-row seat option that, while only suitable for children, still boosts capacity from five passengers to seven.
These Santa Fe's have performed well as practical and family-friendly SUVs. And those with the larger V6 engine are particularly smooth and have ample power. While certainly not designed to be dynamic and athletic street performers, the Sante Fe is easy to control and has well-mannered handling, despite its fairly heavy size.
Since, 2007, the optional sunroof and Infinity audio system became standard features on the Limited for the 2008 model year. In 2009, a USB/iPod audio jack and a towing prep package were made standard features on all models.
The first generation Hyundai Santa Fe debuted for the 2001 model year. Sold through 2006, Hyundai's first SUV was a success, also winning praise for its roominess and compliant ride. Offered in GL, GLS and LX models, these Santa Fe's were powered by either a 149 horsepower 2.4 liter four-cylinder or a 177 horsepower 2.7 liter V6. And all used models can be found in both front-wheel or all-wheel drive forms.
In 2003, Hyundai added a 195 horsepower 3.5 liter V6 and discontinued the four-cylinder in 2005. 2005 models also got standard antilock brakes (ABS) for all models as well as received both exterior and interior design refreshes. And in 2006, the Limited got leather upholstery and automatic climate control.
Other very good resources for learning about the Hyundai Santa Fe include the used Santa Fe info by model year, including photos, specs, recalls, etc., at Automotive.com: Used Santa Fe Info. For more deatils on the Sante Fe's history and model year changes, there's fairly comprehensive information at Wikipedia,org: Hyundai Santa Fe. You can also see Kelley Blue Book's video review at Hyundai Sante Fe Youtube Review.
For both dealer and "by owner" price comparisons, there's a good nationwide database of classifieds at LemonFree: Used Hyundai Sante Fe For Sale. And to learn what actual Sante Fe owners think of their vehicles, there's owner reviews at CarReview: Hyundai Santa Fe. Thetruthaboutcars.com also has an insightful review at Hyundai Santa Fe Review.
For those who may still be thinking about buying a new Santa Fe, there's good info on the newest model at Hyundai USA: New Sante Fe Model Info.
Overall, for those seeking a used crossover SUV with plenty of features and a lot of bang for the buck, the Hyundai Santa Fe is worthy of serious consideration. And we can suggest two ways to help you save when buying one.
Can we help you when searching for a Hyundai Santa Fe?
 ONE: We're always on the lookout for the nicest used Hyundai Santa Fe models for sale at the Dealer-Only auctions we attend ... and we can purchase one specifically for you.
We can buy any make or model at significant discounts to retail ... and then pass most of these savings right back to you. Here's where to learn more about our unique, money-saving, and very simple Auto Buying Service.
TWO:
You can go to Public Car Auctions in your own geographic area ... no license required. While this will take some additional time and effort on your part, there are indeed some truly excellent opportunities for those who shop these events.
Here's an article with additional information on locating these auctions and the key issues in using them to your advantage: Find A Santa Fe At Your Local Public Car Auctions.
Also ...
If you're interested in a "Brand New" Hyundai Santa Fe: People swear by the interesting method in this article on how to get the absolute lowest price on a new Santa Fe, especially given the current slow economic environment.
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