The full details about the new Hyundai Santa Fe have now been revealed ahead of its arrival in New Zealand in early 2024, with the model now only being offered with petrol and hybrid power.
Last month, we were shown images of the upcoming midsize SUV’s bold new design which is now boxier than ever and boasts a set of distinctive H-shaped daytime running lights up front.
There’s no doubt that the model is drastically different from its predecessors, something that Hyundai says was done to pivot toward the hearts and minds of those who spend time both in the city and the great outdoors.
It’s also larger than the older models, coming in at 4830mm long and 1900mm wide, while the wheelbase measures 2815mm. Height comes to 1720-1780mm, depending on the variant.
That means there’s more room inside, with all occupants getting increased legroom and headroom. The petrol-powered model’s second-row legroom has been increased by 35mm to 1075mm, while the hybrid’s grows by 20mm to 1055mm. In the third row, legroom increases by 15mm to 761mm.
As for creature comforts, the driver and passengers will find a panoramic curved display mounted to the dashboard, featuring a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and same-sized infotainment system.
Most of the materials you’ll find inside are eco-friendly, with the headliner, floor mats, seatbacks, door trim and more being made from recycled materials.
Technological appointments are abundant, including plenty of places to charge devices (including wirelessly), over-the-air vehicle software updates, radar-based rear occupant detection, and a driver monitoring system.
Powertrain choices have yet to be decided for NZ, but we can confirm that there will be no diesel engine offered in the new Santa Fe.
In Korea and North America, the model will be offered with a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine that makes 207kW and 441Nm of torque, hooked up to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. A 1.6-litre turbo hybrid will also be on offer, sending 132kW and 265Nm through a six-speed automatic.
Europe is set to get the same aforementioned 1.6-litre turbo hybrid, as well as a plug-in hybrid variant that makes 118kW and 265Nm.
Elsewhere, a 2.5-litre petrol that sends 143kW and 246Nm through an eight-speed DCT will be offered.
Hyundai also showed off an XRT Concept variant of the new SUV, which has been designed to venture off the beaten path thanks to the addition of chunky tyres, a roof rack and various other adventure-ready accessories.
The new Hyundai Santa Fe has been confirmed for New Zealand and will launch in early 2024. Local pricing and specification have yet to be determined.
