More details have been revealed for the all-new fourth-generation 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe, the redesigned large SUV is expected to reach Australia sometime in July.
The new exterior brings the Santa Fe into line with Hyundai’s current SUV design language. The cascading grille and twin headlamps certainly spruce things up. Hyundai says the new Santa Fe is categorised by a “powerful wide stance and an athletic, bold look.” It’s a hard statement to argue against, there is a significant injection of masculinity in the car’s exterior.
Dimensionally, the Santa Fe has grown slightly, with the tape now showing a length of 4770mm, a width of 1890mm and a longer wheelbase of 2765mm.
The extra millimetres have translated to more room throughout the cabin. In the second row, legroom is increased by 38mm and the seat is 18mm higher. The new one-touch folding seats ease passenger access to third-row seats. Headroom in the third row has also been improved by 22mm.
Also, those in the back will now enjoy greater visibility thanks to a larger rear window.
Hyundai’s SmartSense safety package will be included, the system now offers Rear Occupant Alert monitors to prevent anyone being left in the car.
To keep bike wankers happy, there’s a Safety Exit Assist feature that prevents the doors opening if the radar detects an object approaching from behind.
The main powertrain will be a revised version of the 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine that develops 144kW/436Nm and is paired with a new eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission. The older V6 petrol has been given the boot, a 2.4-litre petrol is available in some markets, but not yet confirmed for Australia.
Hyundai’s new all-wheel drive system called HTRAC will be found on the new Santa Fe. The system uses variable torque control to distribute the required torque and braking to each wheel.
The new Santa Fe will need a sharp price, it’s competing against the Mazda CX-9, Kia Sorento, Toyota Kluger and Haval H9.
Full Australian specifications and pricing are expected to be released in the lead up to the vehicle's local launch. Stay tuned.
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