Hyundai’s new-look Santa Fe is in showrooms priced from $55,000.
And while the theme might be ‘Open for More’, with research revealing a high level of interest in outdoor activities, Santa Fe’s off-road ability is yet to be tested.
Apparently the ‘Open for More’ concept seeks to connect the inside with the outside, to expand customers’ everyday experiences.
This is characterised by spacious second- and third-row seating, and a roomy, practical cargo area – all made possible by an extended wheelbase, efficient packaging, and an enlarged tailgate opening.
The tougher looking Santa Fe will be available initially in hybrid form only based on a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine, and priced from $55,500 before on-road costs.
A more powerful 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol only version is coming later in the year, priced from $58,500.
The hybrid produces 172kW of power and 367Nm of torque, and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
The petrol version ups the ante to 206kW and 422Nm and is mated to an eight-speed dual clutch transmission.
Both are available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, with three grades from which to choose: Santa Fe, Elite or Calligraphy, with six- or seven-seat capacity.
The all-new model is 45mm longer, stands 60mm taller and has a 50mm longer wheelbase.
The tailgate opening is 145mm wider than that of the preceding model and complements a larger cargo capacity.
Cargo capacity is 628/1949 litres seats up/down for the new model versus 571/1782 litres for the previous model.
The new model features a Panoramic Curved Display incorporating 12.3-inch digital cluster and infotainment displays, convenience of connected car services and over-the-air (OTA) remote software update capability, plus a comprehensive safety suite.
The base model does not include satellite navigation, while access to connected services is complimentary for five years.
Second-generation safety technology includes Highway Driving Assist (HDA2), Forward Collision Assist (FCA2), and Lane Following Assist (LFA2).
Premium comfort and convenience features include multi-console storage, which is easily accessible for both front and rear occupants, an intuitive 6.6-inch climate control display and high-speed, dual wireless smartphone charging.
Top of the range Calligraphy adds first-row relaxation seating with leg rests, power-reclining second-row captain’s chairs in six-seat version, a digital centre mirror and an innovative UV-C sterilisation tray that eliminates bacteria from personal items.
It also features a new dual wireless charging pad in the spacious front centre console, to allow the charging of two smartphones at the same time.
All-new Santa Fe is available in 10 exterior colours including the standard Creamy White mica and Terracotta Orange (solid).
Premium mica colours include Abyss Black, Pebble Blue and Cyber Sage, and premium metallic colours include Typhoon Silver, Magnetic Force and Ocado Green.
Creamy White and Earthy Brass are offered in matte finish.
Calligraphy variants feature a blacked-out treatment comprising black badging, wheels, and body cladding, to create a stylish monochromatic image.
Eco-friendly materials are used for many of the soft surfaces such as the headliner, seat backs and the instrument panel, door trim and seat coverings.
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