Hyundai recently updated its mid-size family SUV, the Santa Fe with an all-new design adding a complete overhaul. The new Santa Fe was recently launched in UAE at a starting price of AED 125,000. We were invited to experience the new SUV in Dubai and here are our review impressions of the new Santa Fe.
History
Launched in 2000, the Santa Fe started its journey as a compact SUV, eventually transitioning into a mid-size offering. Over the years, it built a reputation for reliability, safety, and affordability. The 2024 model marks a significant departure, showcasing Hyundai’s commitment to innovation and keeping pace with evolving SUV buyer demands. Read more about the history of the Hyundai Santa Fe.
Exterior Design
The most striking transformation lies in the new Santa Fe’s exterior design. It sheds its previous conservative look in favour of a bolder, more aggressive stance. The front end features a prominent grille with integrated LED daytime running lights, flanked by sleek LED headlights.
The side profile showcases sharp character lines and muscular wheel arches, along with the 21-inch alloy wheels. The rear boasts stylish taillights and a wide stance, solidifying its confident presence on the road. Overall, the new Santa Fe exudes a sense of sophistication and modern flair, making it stand out in a crowded segment.
Interior Design
The interior of the 2024 Santa Fe reflects a significant leap forward in terms of design and quality. The cabin features a clean and modern layout, with high-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces throughout. The driver is greeted by a fully digital gauge cluster and a large central touchscreen.
The seats are comfortable and supportive, offering ample space for passengers in all three rows. Notably, the third-row seating, while not as spacious as some competitors, still offers decent legroom for occasional use. The SUV also features the largest tailgate opening in Hyundai’s portfolio making it a more practical family SUV.
Technology and Safety
The new Santa Fe comes packed with technology features, making it a compelling choice for tech-savvy families. The standard infotainment system includes a 12.3-inch Infotainment, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker sound system.
The Santa Fe also boasts a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, enhancing safety and providing a more relaxed driving experience. Here is a detailed comparison of the new feature additions to the new Santa Fe.
Engine & Transmission Options
| Specs | 2.5L NA Petrol | 2.5L Turbo Petrol | 1.6L Turbo Petrol Hybrid |
| Max Power | 191hp | 277hp | 232hp |
| Peak Torque | 246Nm | 422Nm | 367Nm |
| 0 to 100km/h | 11.5 seconds | 8 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 198km/h | 210km/h | 190km/h |
| Gearbox | 8-speed AT | 8-speed DCT | 6-speed AT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD | AWD |
Driving Impressions
Engine:
In our new Santa Fe review, we tested the mid-spec SUV with a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The engine is smooth at lower revs but sounds stressed when pushed.
Drive Modes:
Eco mode prioritizes fuel efficiency with earlier gear changes and a slightly sluggish feel, while sport mode holds gears longer and allows higher revs, though the engine noise remains noticeable. While the engine offers decent power, it doesn’t accelerate the SUV as quickly as desired.
Gearbox:
The paddle shifters in sport mode only allow manual shifting from second gear onwards. They are relatively quick for an automatic transmission, and the sweet spot for the engine lies between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm, although engine noise is a significant drawback.
Handling:
The steering is light and adjusts well with increasing speed. The blind spot collision avoidance system can be overly intrusive, potentially interfering with intended manoeuvres. The adaptive cruise control is user-friendly with adjustable following distances.
New 2024 Santa Fe Review Verdict
Overall, the 2024 Santa Fe prioritizes comfort and a relaxed driving experience, making it ideal for families and those who value a smooth ride. While it might not be the most exciting option for driving enthusiasts, it offers a competent and predictable driving experience that caters to most everyday driving situations.
Find used Santa Fe for sale in the UAE and new Santa Fe for sale in the UAE.
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