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Hyundai’s latest Santa Fe refresh has been designed with the modern family in mind. The SUV’s new, chunky exterior gives it a bold presence on the road, while a range of hybrid powertrains keeps fuel costs low. Inside, the cabin is spacious enough for seven passengers, and the layout is packed with practical touches that make long trips feel effortless. For buyers who need a versatile, well‑equipped vehicle that can handle both daily commutes and weekend getaways, the Santa Fe offers a balanced mix of style, comfort and technology.
Beyond the obvious appeal of a seven‑seat layout, the Santa Fe’s updated design and feature set aim to set it apart from competitors in a crowded SUV market. With a focus on safety, connectivity and user‑friendly controls, Hyundai has turned the Santa Fe into a practical choice for families who want a vehicle that can grow with them.
Design & Exterior
The new Santa Fe carries a distinctly boxy, muscular look that feels both modern and rugged. The front fascia is dominated by a large, stylised “H” that echoes the brand’s logo, while a horizontal bar runs across the bumper, mirroring the headlight design. The roofline features a semi‑floating style, and the side pillars are blacked out to give the car a more streamlined appearance.
Large 20‑inch alloy wheels and a bold roof‑rail design give the SUV an off‑road vibe, even though it is primarily a family hauler. The paint options include a striking olive‑green metallic that adds a touch of personality, and the overall silhouette is tall enough to provide a commanding road presence.
Interior & Comfort
The cabin is built around a “calligraphy” theme, with subtle H motifs appearing on the seats, door panels and even the steering wheel. The third‑row seats are fold‑down, offering up to 628 litres of boot space when all seats are collapsed. The second row can be configured as two captain’s chairs or a bench, giving flexibility for passengers or cargo.
Storage is generous: a large centre console with a sliding armrest, a built‑in drawer, and multiple cup holders keep essentials within reach. USB‑C ports and a 12‑volt outlet are available on both sides of the rear seats, and a dedicated charging tray lets children keep their devices powered during long drives.
Comfort features include ventilated and heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a three‑stage climate control system that can be adjusted from the steering wheel or the central touchscreen. The cabin also hosts a Bose sound system and a heads‑up display that projects key information onto the windscreen.
Powertrain & Performance
The Santa Fe is offered as a plug‑in hybrid, a conventional hybrid, or a petrol‑only model. The plug‑in version pairs a 1.6‑litre turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined 180 PS and 265 Nm of torque. The petrol model produces 180 PS and 265 Nm as well, but relies solely on the combustion engine.
Both powertrains are mated to a six‑speed automatic transmission. The hybrid version can drive on front‑wheel or all‑wheel drive, while the petrol model is available only in front‑wheel drive. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes roughly 9.2 seconds, which is adequate for a family SUV but not a performance‑focused vehicle.
Fuel economy is a key selling point: the plug‑in hybrid claims a combined 39.2 mpg and emits 164 g/km of CO₂. The petrol model is less efficient but still competitive within its segment.
Technology & Practicality
Connectivity is handled by a dual‑screen setup, each 12.3 inches, that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly. The central display also hosts a digital rear‑view mirror that can be toggled on or off, while a 360‑degree camera system provides a bird’s‑eye view for parking and low‑speed manoeuvres.
Driver‑assist features include automatic lights, wipers, and a range of safety sensors. The vehicle’s infotainment system allows quick access to driver‑assist settings, such as speed limits and driver‑warning alerts, which can be turned off with a single tap.
Practical touches such as a manual sunroof, a heated steering wheel, and a large boot area (over 680 litres with the second row folded) make the Santa Fe well‑suited for family trips. The interior’s “calligraphy” design elements, combined with a high‑quality feel, give the cabin a premium ambience without the price tag of a luxury model.
Overall, the refreshed Hyundai Santa Fe delivers a balanced package for families who need space, efficiency and a touch of style. Its hybrid powertrain offers respectable fuel savings, while the interior’s thoughtful layout and storage solutions keep everyday life organised. The SUV’s bold exterior and robust feature set help it stand out in a crowded market, making it a strong contender for anyone looking for a practical yet well‑equipped seven‑seat vehicle.