Hyundai Motor has revealed first images and videos of the new Santa Fe. The enhanced version of Hyundai's flagship SUV in Europe offers a range of premium updates and new hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. In addition, it will be the first Hyundai vehicle in Europe to utilise the company's all-new third-generation vehicle platform, resulting in improved performance, efficiency and safety.
These enhancements arrive just in time for the 20th anniversary of Hyundai's longest-running SUV. Sold in Europe since 2001, the D-segment SUV has been praised for its comfort and roominess, comprehensive standard features and functional cabin design. The latest series of improvements makes the new Santa Fe an even more premium choice for its customers. As well as offering the option of a hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain for the first time, the new Santa Fe features a bold and distinctive new design as well as a range of new technology and safety features.
"We modernized the New Santa Fe with premium features and appealing aesthetics that are sure to add value," said SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Hyundai Design Center. "The bold lines that extend from one side to the other and from front to back give Santa Fe a rugged yet refined look that SUV customers want. Besides, we have added numerous features and functions to create a truly family-focused SUV that is a pleasure to drive."
A bold new design for a distinctive look
The new Hyundai Santa Fe exterior design makes a unique statement in the SUV segment, combining rugged presence and sophistication. The striking front end design stands out through its distinctive wide grille shape, embracing the main headlamp units. The accentuated 3D pattern of the grille mesh emphasizes its robust character. Unique, eye-catching T-shaped LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) create an unmistakable signature graphic and also reveal the turn signal as dual function.
On the lower bumper, the robust skid plate embraces the lower air intake, forming a clamp shape and visually supporting the main grille architecture. To complete the powerful presence of the front end, the corners are dominated by vertically-oriented aerodynamic inlets that improve air flow efficiency and strengthen the upright and robust impression.
Wider wheel arch claddings and new alloy wheel designs, including a 20-inch option, reinforce the strong character of the new Santa Fe. At the rear, the new taillight design with horizontally-stretched graphics visually reinforces the width of the body. A red reflector band has been added to connect the taillights. To achieve harmony and refinement, the designers shaped the rear bumper fascia with focus on achieving a calmer, more sophisticated rear end design. This underlines the wide stance and strength of the vehicle. Through its exterior design, the new Santa Fe demonstrates the maturity and confidence which reflect the premium qualities of Hyundai.
More efficient and new electrified powertrains
Following the popularity of the Kona Electric and Hybrid, Hyundai's best-selling subcompact SUV, Hyundai expands its electrified SUV line-up to its flagship SUV in Europe. The new Santa Fe is the first Hyundai in Europe to go on sale with the new 'Smartstream' hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain. More information on the new Santa Fe powertrain line-up will be released in the near future.
New platform for a better performance and improved safety
The new Hyundai Santa Fe is the first Hyundai model in Europe and first Hyundai SUV globally based on the all-new third-generation Hyundai vehicle platform. The new platform allows for significant improvements in performance, handling, fuel efficiency and safety.
By featuring a system that controls the flow of air, the new platform improves air movement through the engine bay and allows heat to dissipate. This enhances stability in the lower part of the vehicle. Vehicle stability is further enhanced by the lowered position of heavy equipment within the platform, which reduces weight and lowers the centre of gravity. Aerodynamics have also been improved so that air resistance is minimised to deliver excellent fuel efficiency, power and driving performance.
The fixed points for the steering arms have been positioned closer to the middle of the front wheels, allowing for more agile handling. Meanwhile, noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) performance is improved through reinforced sound-absorbing systems in vibration-sensitive parts.
The new platform also brings with it significant improvements in collision safety, thanks to improvements in engineering. Through the use of a multi-load path structure, hot stamping, and the integration of a super high-tensile steel plate, the platform will enable the car to better absorb the impact in the event of a collision while at the same time minimising the deformation of the passenger space.
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