Hyundai prettifies, electrifies new Santa Fe

MANILA: Hyundai Motor unveiled the first videos and images of the new Santa Fe on June 3. The new Hyundai model will be rolled out in Europe beginning September 2020.

After the introduction of the Kona Electric and Hybrid, the best-selling subcompact SUV of Hyundai, the auto brand widens its electrified SUV lineup to its leading SUV.

The new Santa Fe is the first Hyundai model in Europe to be rolled out with the new “Smartstream” hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. More details regarding its powertrains will be revealed soon.

The new Santa Fe will also be the first Hyundai model to use the all-new third-generation vehicle platform. In terms of regulating airflow, the new platform enhances air movement through the engine bay and enables heat dissipation. This improves the stability in the lower portion of the vehicle.

Vehicle stability is further improved through the depressed position of heavy equipment within the platform, which reduces the center of gravity and decreases weight. Aerodynamics has been improved. This promotes enhanced collision safety, fuel efficiency, handling, and performance.

The latest range of improvements is suitable and timely for the 20^th anniversary of the longest-running SUV of Hyundai. The D-segment SUV has been recognized for its functional cabin design and all-inclusive standard features.

The new Santa Fe also features a unique and bold new design and a range of new safety and technology features. The exterior design of the vehicle creates a clear statement in the SUV segment, as it combines sophistication and rugged presence.

The remarkable striking front end design is a standout through its unique broad grille form, which embraces the main headlamp units. The 3D pattern of the grille mesh highlights its robust appeal. The T-shaped LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are attention-grabbing and distinct, and also serve as the turn signal.

At the rear area, the width of the body becomes visually supported by a new taillight design with horizontally stretched graphics. The designers have formed the rear bumper fascia with emphasis on accomplishing a more sophisticated and calmer back end design to attain refinement and harmony. This highlights the strength and broad stance of the new Santa Fe.

The new Santa Fe, for the first time, also provides an optional Luxury Package for a more refined appeal. The exterior of the trim features front and back lower bumpers, a 20-inch alloy wheel design, and side cladding that complement the body color, instead of matte black.

For its interior, the new Santa Fe offers more convenience, comfort, and space, in comparison with the previous model. It takes the vehicle to a new phase of luxury, with each component polished in high-quality soft-touch materials. It includes a new 10.25-inch AVN touchscreen, a redesigned center console, and a new lower dashboard design.

For the first time, the new Hyundai model features a terrain mode selector, which is a control knob positioned in the center console to change between various drive modes easily.

The fixed points for the steering arms have been placed closer to the center of the front wheels, which enables more responsive handling.

Furthermore, noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) performance is enhanced through supported sound-absorbing systems in vibration-sensitive components.

Photos from Hyundai

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