Having spent more time than we had, we made an attempt to B-line it back to our rendezvous. Normally we would check in with someone from Hyundai, just to make sure we hadn't gotten into trouble, but no doubt they saw us parked on the beach earlier and figured we would eventually find our way back to the hotel, as no one was at the check point.

The Santa Fe negotiates switchbacks with surprising agility, whether paved or gravel surfaces. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

No worries, I made up time by pushing the Santa Fe a little harder than I would normally, something, as previously mentioned, it has no problems doing. While the added power is much appreciated, I've never complained about the SUV's suspension. The fully independent setup, MacPherson struts up front and double-wishbones in the rear, absorbs irregular pavement without transferring much harshness to the body, resulting in a relatively smooth and quiet ride. While comfortable it also doesn't fuss when the roadway begins to swerve, but rather negotiates switchbacks with surprising agility, whether paved or gravel surfaces.

The Santa Fe has helped Hyundai elevate their entire nameplate to a higher level of respectability. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

When it's all said and done the Santa Fe has done wonders for Hyundai. Not only has it been a sales leader, with higher profits than the economy cars the brand entered the North American market with years ago, but its all-round goodness has served to elevate the entire nameplate to a higher level of respectability.

Now when Canadians think Hyundai, those in the know don't factor in negative build quality issues or lackluster performance. After all, with respected U.S. publication Consumer Reports now rating the Korean automaker in 13th place out of 37 vehicle manufacturers for reliability, tied with Honda no less, concerns over such matters go out the door.