New Hyundai Santa Fe: An Edgy and Radical Design for Hyundai’s SUV
The Hyundai Santa Fe has always been the perfect fit for families looking for 7-seat practicality and an impressive log of standard features. Sadly, it’s often been overshadowed by more established stalwarts in its segment.
Since its debut in 2001 as Hyundai’s first SUV, the Santa Fe has evolved into a refined and capable fourth-generation model that we admire for its smooth ride, spacious cabin, and efficient engines.
It’s now entering its fifth generation, and it’s a complete departure from the model it replaces.
On the outside, it boasts an overall square-inspired shape, a distinctive silhouette, a front end adorned with H-shaped headlights, and bold, sharply-styled fenders. The H-shaped design elements further reinterpret Hyundai’s ‘H’ insignia, and the brand has nailed the design if we were to deliver our two cents. The rear features a simple but elegant design courtesy of a larger tailgate and low-positioned H-shaped taillights.
The new Santa Fe sits on a set of 21-inch wheels, which give it a robust and adventurous stance. View it from the side, though, and it has some striking resemblances to a certain British off-roader. There are only so many shapes an SUV can adopt, though…
The interior has plenty of focal points. For instance, the Santa Fe is the latest model from Hyundai to feature a 12.3-inch digital cluster and a curved infotainment system display, complemented by a separate control panel with buttons and knobs for climate settings. The dashboard and air vents sport the H-motif design. Other features include dual wireless charging pads, Nappa leather upholstery, a suede headliner, and second and third-row seatbacks made from recycled plastic. Like the outgoing model, the new Santa Fe will offer seating for up to seven passengers.
Hyundai doesn’t mention any powertrain details, but we know that a 4-cylinder petrol engine will form part of the range as depicted by the car’s ‘2.5T HTRAC’ badging. This model will feature the brand’s HTRAC all-wheel-drive system, but we’ll find out more when the Santa Fe officially debuts in August.
The new Santa Fe looks like nothing we’ve seen from Hyundai, and as far as initial impressions are concerned, the Seoul-based marquee has nailed the design, and it will surely make you turn your head in admiration.
