Hyundai has redone its Santa Fe crossover SUV for the 2007 model year. So what's the result? It's a little bigger, a little more upscale and offers a lot more value. It's also one of the best-handling SUVs on the market and has a surprising number of features that make it a terrific choice for auto buyers.

Photo by Hyundai (ENLARGE)

2007 Hyundai Santa Fe

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ABOUT THE HYUNDAI SASNTA FE:

Body style: Crossover SUV

Trim lines: GLS, SE, Limited

Price: Base price around $22,145 for GLS; tester, a Limited, was $26,140

Drive: Front-wheel; all-wheel optional

Seating: Two in front, three in rear; optional third row seats two

Engine: 2.7 liter or 3.3 liter V-6

Transmission: Five-speed automatic on tester; four-speed automatic or five-speed manual on some models

Miles per gallon of fuel: EPA estimate 19 city/24 highway

WHAT'S SPECIAL: Start with abundant safety features such as electronic stability control, anti-whiplash head restraints and six air bags. Then check out its performance. The V-6 engine is plenty peppy; the handling can be likened to some of the finest sedans.

WHAT WE LIKE: Hyundai is getting the design thing right these days. The prior version Santa Fe was no real head turner. This one is sharp. Hyundai's given it an assertive yet graceful look.

WHAT ISN'T THERE: A navigation system, but stay tuned. Hyundai says it is working on one, probably to be done by the next model year. In the meantime, if that's a big thing for you, you can buy your own and put it in there.

YOU OUGHTA KNOW: The Santa Fe is competing in the crossover segment Ñ SUVs built on car platforms Ñ the hottest in the industry. But make no mistake: Hyundai's product not only holds its own against similarly priced rivals but also gives a good run for the money against higher-end models.

EXTRAS: Take note of the interior. The test model had very comfortable leather seats, a cargo net and cargo screen in the rear storage area, which even offers storage space under the cargo floor, and a dash that emitted a cool blue light glow at night. You'll be impressed by the overall interior space. A third row of seating is available.

AND ANOTHER THING: About 40 crossovers are on the market. But for overall value, this is one of the best.