Would an automatic Hyundai Sante Fe suit my needs?

I'm thinking of buying a 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe (100,000 miles). Is this a good buy? I have two teens and a toddler so want the option of seven seats. Is four-wheel drive more expensive to run than two-wheel drive? Also, any advantage in getting an automatic?

Thanks, Andrea

Andrea McLean (Leopardstown, D18)

Feb 2014 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Andrea,

Yes, it's a cracking idea. While the old Santa Fe isn't as sophisticated as the current one (hardly surprisingly) it's still an excellent used buy, very reliable and nice to drive. 

A figure of 100,000 miles on the clock shouldn't be a significant hurdle as long as the service history is all up to date. The basic rule of thumb is that four-wheel drive and automatic gearboxes always add to the fuel consumption. The auto box on that generation Santa Fe wasn't the greatest so I'd say stick with a manual and 4wd is down to where you live - if you regularly need rough road or slippery surface capability it's worthwhile, if you live in town then not much.

Let us know how you get on

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe