I've been enamored the last few days with a 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe. When we first bid on it at the auction I just thought it was okay, smooth enough and quiet enough to sell to a soccer mom but nothing I'd personally own.
But lately I've found myself hooked on the 242hp V6, punchy sound system, firm brakes, firm suspension, and fairly quick steering.
There's bits of its brakes and suspension that remind me of my Saab and a punch of the throttle sends it rushing forward in a way that reminds me of my Northstar Cadillacs. And despite its muscle, the V6 is smooth as silk. Shifts are crisp and prompt.
People used to driving Camrys might say the ride is rough but I think it's damn near perfect.
The interior is nice too and while there aren't as many soft surfaces as the Lexus RX, I'd argue that it's equally well made.
I don't know why the hell anyone is buying Equinoxes, Muranos, or other mush when this is out there.
Additionally, a friend of mine has a 2011 Kia Optima Turbo that's a hoot to drive. It chirps the tires in second gear if you hammer it hard enough and the chassis and steering offer a reasonable amount of feedback. The interior is pretty damn good too.
Crazy to think Hyundai and Kia were farting out heaps of trash just over a decade ago.
But lately I've found myself hooked on the 242hp V6, punchy sound system, firm brakes, firm suspension, and fairly quick steering.
There's bits of its brakes and suspension that remind me of my Saab and a punch of the throttle sends it rushing forward in a way that reminds me of my Northstar Cadillacs. And despite its muscle, the V6 is smooth as silk. Shifts are crisp and prompt.
People used to driving Camrys might say the ride is rough but I think it's damn near perfect.
The interior is nice too and while there aren't as many soft surfaces as the Lexus RX, I'd argue that it's equally well made.
I don't know why the hell anyone is buying Equinoxes, Muranos, or other mush when this is out there.


Additionally, a friend of mine has a 2011 Kia Optima Turbo that's a hoot to drive. It chirps the tires in second gear if you hammer it hard enough and the chassis and steering offer a reasonable amount of feedback. The interior is pretty damn good too.
Crazy to think Hyundai and Kia were farting out heaps of trash just over a decade ago.