Korean car maker Hyundai has been honoured in What Car? magazine's Used Car of the Year 2011 awards, with the 2007 Santa Fe 2.2 CRTD CDX seven-seater winning the Best Used SUV accolade.

The seven-strong What Car? Used Car of the Year judging panel was made up from all areas of the motor industry, including Car Dealerships, British Car Auctions, Warranty Direct, Lex Autolease and experts from What Car?.

What Car? magazine said: "The Hyundai Santa Fe has improved with age, offering space, practicality and reliability and an ever-more bargain price.

"The only drawback is its rarity, so you may need to hunt to find the perfect car. However, invest a little time and you'll find it's worth the effort."

The 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRDi CDX with seven seats has an average dealer cost of £12,000 and an average private cost of £11,210.

Commenting on the award, Tony Whitehorn, Hyundai UK's managing director, said: "Santa Fe is a popular used car buyer's choice as it offers a great blend of practicality, reliability and fantastic value for money. I'm delighted that this model has been recognised by What Car? magazine as the Best Used SUV of the Year."