After so many years, so many makes, so many models, you wouldn't imagine that the automotive industry would have many surprises left up its corporate sleeve. Sometimes great names besmirch their exhalant reputations with new models that don't live up to their hype. It provides no pleasure to anyone when the reaction is one of disappointment. So it's great news when the surprise is a nice one.

That's the case with the brand new Hyundai Sant Fe which is not just good, but absolutely magnificent.

The old model wasn't bad at all and was unique for for a big off-roader in having swoopy lines. The new Santa Fe is better in every way and stunning in terms of its sheer refinement. the car is Lexus-like in its smoothness, in how quiet it is and how good the engine and gearbox perform.

The Santa Fe glides, whispers and floats, no matter how bad the road conditions. On the motorway it is a supreme mile-eater, leaving the driver relaxed and wanting more.

A new 2.2 litre diesel engine provides 150PS and oodles of smooth torque from under 2,000rpm. As a power-plant it's outstanding. As a first attempt it's brilliant.

There is a wealth of smooth power to be had and the economy is pretty impressive too with almost 40 miles per gallon achievable.

Acceleration is brisk, mid-range good and cruising ability much more than adequate.

The ride is supreme too. It's just so comfortable yet controlled, giving the Sant Fe impressive handling prowess. The automatic gearbox can be switched to sequential, which is useful when you come to a gradient and son't want it to drop a ratio.

As a driver's car the Santa Fe is unsurpassed in its class. It is a joy to be behind the wheel. The Santa Fe is much bigger than its predecessor in all directions - and the original was no shrimp. There is a huge amount of room inside for all passengers, plus a massive boot.

Hideous imitation wood aside, the fixtures and fittings ooze quality, the seat cloth and plastics being particularly pleasing and way beyond the standards expected of this price of vehicle.

The Hyundai looks great too, with thoroughly modern lines, clear glass lenses and great proportions.

It has been a while since I have enjoyed a car as much as the Santa Fe and even longer since a test vehicle has proved to be such a huge surprise.