Introducing the Hyundai SANTA FE
The fifth-generation SANTA FE is one of Hyundai's most dramatic reinventions. Where the previous model was a capable but unremarkable family SUV, this new version arrives with a bold design that will remind you of a rugged 4x4. You certainly won't mistake it for anything else on the road.
Underneath the styling, the SANTA FE remains true to what has made it a family favourite since 2001: seven-seat practicality, a spacious and well-equipped interior and powertrains built around real-world efficiency.
Available as a self-charging hybrid or a plug-in hybrid, it suits loads of different people — from those doing the school run to anyone covering serious motorway miles. This is a large SUV that has grown up, without losing sight of what families actually need.
Design and Practicality
The all-new SANTA FE has been given a more modern and boxy design, coupled with H-shaped design elements from Hyundai's 'H' symbol, including H-shaped headlamps and a H-motif on the front of the vehicle.
With a longer wheelbase, widened tailgate area, and 21-inch wheels, the Santa Fe has been given a muscular and bold look. Add to this a more accommodating cabin space, and the interior is just as appealing as the exterior.
There's plenty of room inside the all-new SANTA FE, and the full foldable second and third row seats ensure a flexible and adaptable interior space to cater to whatever you need.
Sustainable materials have also been incorporated, with elements like the car mats and second and third row seat backs being made from recycled plastic, and eco-friendly leatherette used throughout the cabin too.
Technology and Safety
Inside, the SANTA FE means business. A Panoramic Curved Display sweeps across the dashboard, joining a 12.3-inch digital driver's display with a matching infotainment touchscreen — a setup that feels more executive saloon than family SUV. Dual wireless charging, over-the-air software updates and a digital key round things off nicely.
Safety is taken seriously, too. Hyundai SmartSense comes as standard, bringing a full package of driver assistance systems — covering everything from collision avoidance and lane keeping to blind-spot warnings and smart cruise control.
The entry-level Premium trim earns a strong Euro NCAP rating, and a SmartSense+ upgrade takes that score even higher. On higher-specced trims, it's included as standard. Either way, you're well looked after.
Powertrains and Performance
The SANTA FE is available with two electrified powertrains, both built around a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor and a six-speed automatic gearbox.
The self-charging Hybrid (HEV) produces 236bhp, covers 0 to 62mph in around nine seconds and returns up to 40.9mpg — eyebrow-raising figures for a seven-seat SUV of this size. Front-wheel drive is standard, with four-wheel drive available as an option.
Opt for the Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) and you get 250bhp and a 13.8kWh battery, delivering up to 33 miles of pure electric driving — comfortably enough for most daily commutes without touching the petrol engine. It's an obvious choice for those that want the most efficient means of driving, while the HEV makes a lot of sense for buyers doing higher mileage.
Whichever you choose, the SANTA FE is at its best when you settle in and let it keep eating up the miles, quietly and comfortably.
Experience the Hyundai SANTA FE with Evans Halshaw
Hyundai have prioritised all the right things during the creation of the SANTA FE. It's a large SUV that's incredibly spacious and practical, yet comes with plenty of technology and safety features to make every journey a comfortable one.
Finally, it's pleasingly efficient and won't cost an arm and a leg to run; what more could you need?
If you want to see for yourself how impressive the SANTA FE really is, then we recommend contacting your nearest Evans Halshaw Hyundai retailer to book a test drive.
