James’ Picks
Hyundai Santa Fe— Ever since the Fortuner was launched back in May of 05, only one seven seater SUV has had the ball-bearings to stand up to it and take the fight right up to Toyota’s doorstep. On the surface, the Santa Fe seemed like just another audacious stab at a wait-listed and monopolized segment. Things only started getting serious once people began raving about the class leading,
sedan-like ride quality — something that Toyota was getting a tad sensitive about. Throw in a smooth, responsive, highly economical CRDi engine and a wonderful interior and it should come as no surprise to see why the Santa Fe creeps into the top ten picks of 2006.