Once you get over the feeling that you’re driving a minibus, the new generation Hyundai Santa Fe is actually a really great drive.

This stylish SUV is longer, lower and wider than its predecessor, but with light, supple steering and a powerful 2.2 diesel engine – which develops 197PS and 311lb ft of torque – it still provide a smooth, comfortable ride, and the height gives a sense of superiority on ordinary roads.

Also, Santa Fe’s suspension has been tuned specifically for UK roads to ensure a refined and cosseting ride.

Dampers have been stiffened over the European set-up in order to cope with bumps and uneven road surfaces that are more common in the UK.

The chassis is 15 per cent more rigid too.

Three trim levels are available, and there is still a choice of either a five or seven-seater. I drove the seven-seater, but folded down the rear seats to give me oodles of boot space – there is 534 litres (plus an additional 51 litres under the boot floor for the five-seater, or three litres for the seven-seater). With both the second and third row of seats folded flat, cargo capacity is increased to 1,615 litres.

Equipment specification is generous across the range, with entry-level Style models featuring 18-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, manual air-conditioning, heated front seats, driver’s seat electric lumbar support, Bluetooth connectivity, RDS radio/CD player with six speakers and USB, AUX and iPod connectivity.

Move up to Premium and you’ll get touchscreen satellite navigation, a reverse parking camera with Parking Guidance System, electric folding door mirrors with puddle lamps, dual zone climate control, roof rails, chrome effect door handles and black leather seat trim. Beige leather can be specified as an alternative.

Lots of safety features are also standard from entry, including ESP, Hill Start Assist, Vehicle Stability Management, Trailer Stability Assist and seven airbags.

A first for Santa Fe is the Active Bonnet System, which raises the bonnet by 60mm in the event of a pedestrian collision to help minimise the impact of head injuries.

The Santa Fe is backed by Hyundai’s five-year Triple Care package, so owners get a fully transferable five-year unlimited mileage warranty, five years’ roadside assistance and free vehicle health checks.

Fact File:
Car: Hyundai Santa Fe Premium 4WD
On the road: £32,375
Top speed: 118mph
0-62mph: 10.1 seconds
Fuel: 41.5mpg (combined)
CO2 emissions: 178g/km