We took some time out recently to attend the online launch of the all new Hyundai SANTA FE. This much anticipated new model has been asked out by many of our loyal readers so here we take a brief overview of what to expect. First impression are good, I mean just look at it! Now sitting on a longer wheelbase it gives the all-new SANTA FE a sense of grandeur, and presence with it’s almost Defender like roofline, bulging fenders, robust wheel arches, sitting on stunning 21-inch wheels. The H-shaped headlamps which draw inspiration from the Hyundai emblem look distinctive and unlike anything we have seen from the brand in the past. To the rear we see a much wider tailgate that features futuristic H-shaped taillights which are not only are in keeping with the nose but somewhat IONIC like, no doubt set to become very recognisable on Irish roads. The variety of exterior colours, is set to include Abyss Black Pearl, Creamy White Pearl, Creamy White Matte, Typhoon Silver Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Terracotta Orange, Cyber Sage Pearl, Earthy Brass Metallic Matte and Pebble Blue Pearl.
Features
Inside things are equally as impressive! It is now packed with premium comfort and convenience features, several of which are either the world’s first, first-in-class, or class-leading. The first thing you notice is the panoramic curved display, which features a 12.3-inch digital cluster and infotainment system. Then there is the space, not just for the driver but also the second and third row of seats. It now offers best-in-class third-row comfort (with third-row recline) and headroom improvements in response to customer feedback. It even has dual wireless charging system for smartphones and a UV-C Sterilisation Tray sits on top of the SANTA FE’s passenger glove compartment. This can provide easy sterilisation of frequently used items, such as cell phones, wallets, etc.
Buyers will notice Eco-friendly materials are used throughout the SANTA FE’s interior for soft surfaces, such as the headliner, car mats, crash pad, door trim and seats. The interior colour options will be Obsidian Black, Supersonic Gray, Pecan Brown, Forest Green, and Black Ink. With class-leading cargo capacity and a spacious tailgate opening buyers should have plenty of room for everything from the weekly shopping to weekends away with camping gear. We particularly liked the fact that the new SANTA FE also comes with Digital Key 2 for vehicle access/startup. This means you can gain access to the vehicle using your smartphone with Near-field Communication technology. You won’t even need a physical key!
Power
For Ireland the all-new SANTA FE will most likely be available with two powertrain options, including the 1.6-litre Turbocharged Hybrid, or a petrol 1.6-litre Turbocharged Plug-in Hybrid with maximum engine output of 160 hp. Hyundai stated in the conference that they have yet to test the combined power output of the Plug-In Hybrid.
Safety
Peace of mind is guaranteed with the new SANTA FE and as expected, it is equipped with a host of driving assistance and safety features to aid driver an occupants. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2 can provide a warning and emergency braking if the preceding vehicle suddenly slows down or if a forward collision risk is detected. Lane Following Assist 2 employs a windshield-mounted camera to help recognise vehicle drifting and helps provide slight steering inputs to return the vehicle back to the centre of its lane. New for Hyundai is the Driver Attention Warning (DAW) which monitors the driver’s attention and can provide warnings when necessary. Among the SANTA FE’s other driver assistance and safety features are Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Rear View Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Front/Rear Parking Distance Warning, Surround View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Safe Exit Assist.
Costs
Prices have yet to confirmed for the Irish market but we will be sure to report them right here as soon as they are announced.
Summary
Without driving the vehicle it’s hard to provide a detailed summary but this new SANTA FE looks set to impress by providing class-leading comfort and cargo capacity with styling that will appeal to those that are happy to stand out. It looks super functional and we love the trick details such as the Hidden Assist Handle located in the C-pillar, for improved roof access. Hyundai appear to have thought of everything with this vehicle and although it is already scheduled for release in Korea, we will probably have to wait until the first half of next year to see one rolling on Irish roads. We are pretty sure it will be worth the wait!
