Interesting test drive talk - 2004 Sante Fe
 

Hyundai sent me a post card to test drive the 2004 Sante Fe & compate
it to my 2002 for $50. Other than side air bags, I see no difference.
Then the Manager has me take him for a ride & he is telling me some
very interesting tidbits about the 2006 Sante Fe that will seat 8 - 3
tier seating & available in V6 only. The 2005 Tucson will become the
Sante Fe as we know it but with no carpeting! It will be available in
5 speed, auto, V6 or 4 cyl. It will be a hybrid model for fleet only
but hopefully by 2006 with the new Sante Fe that is rumored to be the
Kia Sodona presently. The Tucson will be sold as a Kia also but I
forget the name. So a hybrid by the time I am ready to trade for one
in 2006-2007. I am told they are revamping the recharging battery via
the engine's alternator, as the Honda has, that needs a freeway ride
of 15 minutes daily. They want theirs to recharge itself maybe solar
or something weird.

So by September, Step one of what I was told will be in effect
(Tucson) & watch Hyundai's Kia also for what changes are there also.