Hyundai continues to surprise with its versatility in terms of segments. There is something for all tastes, needs and budgets, and this is no different when we come to the already unusual segment of large SUVs. To counter this downward trend, it renewed what was its first SUV, launched in the 2000s. We are, of course, talking about the Hyundai Santa Fe , the seven-seater for the SUV market.
The Hyundai Santa Fe emerged at the beginning of the millennium as the first SUV of the Korean brand , presenting itself to the present day in its fourth generation, launched in 2018. However, in 2020 it would undergo a facelift , which breaks with the previous appearance, now with a more improved and technological treatment compared to the predecessor model.
This update also made it possible to provide three versions of the latest Santa Fe, including “Smartstream” electrified versions . Thus, it is available in a hybrid version (HEV) using a 1.6 T-GDi engine with 180 hp . In the plug-in hybrid version (PHEV) it uses the same engine but includes an electric 66.9 kW , guaranteeing a combined power of 265 hp and all-wheel drive . Finally, it is still available in the Diesel version using a 2.2 liter engine of 202 hp , the one in which our test fell. Without further ado, what has changed in the Hyundai Santa Fe?
An improvement in appearance
At the front, the Santa Fe now boasts a larger three-dimensional grille, while the lighting remains the usual two-part LED. However, it is now marked by a “T”-shaped luminous signature, which also includes the turn signals. From the outside, maybe it’s the muscular front, and perhaps something sporty, that caught my attention the most throughout the test.
Likewise, the rear also presents some differences in the optical set (also LED), which are now united by a thin luminous line. The bumpers also gain another highlight, both at the front and at the rear, where the silver color contrasts with the “Rain Forest” metallic paint (€519). Perhaps it’s a good time to mention that painting is the only option, everything else is standard.
The 20″ wheels are part of the “Luxury” package, while only 18″ wheels are standard (or 19″, in electrified versions). Robust in appearance and generous ground clearance, it does not intimidate in size and maintains a familiar posture. However, it is on the inside that the biggest updates appear.
Inside, a (r)evolution
Before we even sit behind the wheel, there are some aspects that immediately jump out at us. First, the color scheme of the interior lining. In a mix between brown and black leather, in addition to giving a very careful and premium look , it guarantees greater lightness and clarity to the interior appearance. And it goes from the dashboard to the seats in the back.
Then, a new “floating” center console which, thanks to the “shift-by-wire” transmission system , allows you to explore the space below the console. This is where, less easily for the driver, we find a 12v outlet and a conventional USB port. But it’s not a case of concern, because Santa Fe allows other ways to charge or connect your smartphone on the go. One of them, in an ingenious way, through vertical wireless charging , arranged in one of the compartments of the console. Furthermore, there are numerous USB ports and even a conventional socket , so that no one lacks energy.
The instrument panel now measures 12.3″ – on par with the latest models of the brand. While the infotainment system has grown from 7″ to 10.25″ , including a Krell sound system . Links to recent mobile platforms are included, as well as a head-up display system projected onto the windshield – it doesn’t get in the way and is really handy.
Space for everything and everyone
The seats, in addition to being comfortable, are also heated and ventilated, and include electric adjustment with forward memory. For those traveling in the middle row, they will “only” have heating for the coldest days. And so that nothing is missing, they are also adjustable, increasing or decreasing the space for the two most isolated places.
Speaking of them, the last row of seats is hidden under the bottom of the boot. And I would say that it is easier to “assemble” these two seats than to “assemble” them. Space is somewhat cramped and access is all or nothing made difficult by a narrow opening in the middle row. And it will always be a more useful option for children and young people than for adults. There, we only notice the lack of ventilation (unlike your Kia Sorento pair , which surprised me a lot).
And speaking of luggage, there’s room for everything. Without folding (7 seats) 130 liters are accounted for . With the third row folded down, that’s 571 liters . And folding all the rear seats, there are 1649 liters of capacity. In addition, it also has an electric door and a storage space under the floor to transport the coat rack in a safe and practical way.
Safety above all
In terms of safety, the new Hyundai Santa Fe does not lag behind the latest technologies, as it still surprises with unprecedented features in this segment. I speak, for example, of Remote Parking Assist . It means that, with just the “power” of the key in our hands, it allows not only to turn the engine on and off , but also to park remotely . All slowly, admittedly, but also safe and quite impressive. And believe me, it was very handy to park this small “airplane” measuring 4.8 m long and 1.9 m wide, either parallel or perpendicular.
Likewise, other systems are part of the list of standard equipment. Just to illustrate a few, parking aid systems are available, such as the 360º four- camera camera , Driver Fatigue Alert, Rear Seat Passenger Alert, Safe Exit (SEA), Rear Traffic Alert (RCCA), Lane Keeping Assist System (LFA), Turnaround Collision Avoidance Assistant (FCA-JX), Blind Spot Radar (BCA), among many others.
In addition, it also includes a camera in each exterior mirror, which whenever the turn signal starts, shows the camera on the instrument panel, alerting in case of imminent danger.
Engine… Diesel!
As mentioned at the beginning of this article, under the hood of this Hyundai Santa Fe we find an engine that is less and less common in other segments, but in this one it seems to make perfect sense. This equips a 2.2 CRDi Diesel engine with a power of 202 hp and a torque of 440 Nm . The gearbox is handled by an eight-speed automatic gearbox, using an oil “bath” to cool the clutch.
Behind the wheel, we often don’t even realize that we are facing a two-tonne SUV, such is its animosity on the road. Although, sometimes, the start is less prompt, which turns out to be normal to break the inertia. Even so, taking into account the driving modes, we can have several cars in one, with “Sport” being the most lively, and “Eco” being the most ecological (of course). Between these two we find the most balanced, “Smart” and “Comfort”, which manage power and consumption autonomously for a more relaxed journey.
With no complaints about braking, suspension and even the soundproofing of the passenger compartment, I would even say that this is one of the best 7-seater SUVs on the market. At least I would already know which one to choose if I was looking for one.