It's the oldest state capital. No, it's an SUV. A state capital! An SUV! Relax, Santa Fe is both a state capital and an SUV. The 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe is a compact SUV that seats five in two rows, but offers surprising roominess for its size. Wider than the CR-V, the 2005 Santa Fe tosses its base trim and 4-cylinder engine this year in favor of the GLS and LX. Both trims come in either front-wheel or AWD, but without low-range gearing.

The 2005 Santa Fe gets new exterior styling to its grille, taillights, oversized bumpers, and body cladding. Internally, the dash has been reworked. The GLS is powered either by a 2.7-liter, 170-hp V6 and 4-speed auto tran or an optional 3.5-liter, 200-hp V6 with 5-speed automatic, which is standard in the LX. The LX is obviously the more luxury-oriented of the two, with heated leather seats, a CD changer, and a new power driver's seat this year. A sunroof is optional on both trims. The 2005 Santa Fe excels in crash test, earning four and five stars. It comes standard with dual front and side airbags, and this year ABS brakes and traction control have been added.

Rear seats fold down to expand the 30 cubic-foot cargo area to 78 cubic feet, but owners complain that the rear seats do not fold flat and it is cumbersome to remove the headrests before folding. A roof rack is also standard, for more cargo flexibility. Though a compact SUV, the 2005 Santa Fe gets so-so fuel economy, and drivers wish it had more power and more legroom. Seat comfort on long trips is disappointing. On the upside, the Santa Fe is stylish, roomy, and handles easily like a car. Owners also like the safety and reliability of the SUV.