Hyundai reveals first images and videos of the new Santa Fe

Hyundai 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.

The new Santa Fe will aslo 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 20^th 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. Beyond 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.

The new 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.

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.

For the first time in a Hyundai vehicle, the new Santa Fe also offers an optional Luxury Package for an even more sophisticated feel. The trim's exterior includes a dedicated 20-inch wheel design, as well as front and back lower bumpers and side cladding which match the body paint colour, rather than matte black.

The new Santa Fe interior now provides more space, comfort, and convenience compared to the previous model. It takes the car to a new level of luxury, with every component finished in premium soft-touch materials.

It features a new lower dashboard design, a redesigned centre console and a new 10.25-inch AVN touchscreen. For the first time, the new Santa Fe comes with a Terrain Mode selector - a control knob located in the centre console to conveniently switch between different drive modes. The buttons are all centered for intuitive and ergonomic use. From the driver's seat, everything is within easy reach. The premium interior updates are rounded off by a new 12.3-inch fully digital cluster.

Following the popularity of the Kona Electric and Hybrid, Hyundai's best-selling subcompact SUV, Hyundai is also expanding its electrified SUV lineup to its flagship SUV in Europe. The new Santa Fe is thus 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 lineup will be released in the near future.

The new Santa Fe rests atop Hyundai's new third-generation Hyundai vehicle platform and which improves air movement through the engine bay and allows heat to dissipate while wnhancing stability in the lower part of the vehicle. 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 performance has been improved through reinforced sound-absorbing systems in vibration-sensitive parts. 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.