Santa Fe was designed to have a softer, more subdued visage than the rugged facade prevalent on other SUVs. Nevertheless, contrasting body cladding and bumpers give it a no-nonsense appearance of being able to cope with underbrush and tree limbs out on the trail.

For 2006, the Santa Fe has blacked-out B- and C-pillars that make for a more unified look when viewed in profile.

The rear liftgate works well. Hinging the liftgate at the top rather than one side eliminates the problem of the door getting in the way during curbside loading or unloading. Opening the rear hatch is a cinch with its pistol-grip latch handle and gas struts. Closing it is just as easy with a pull-down grip mounted inside. When open, the liftgate clears six-footers.