It’s fair to say that Kiwi’s love SUVs, but it would appear that we love hybrids too (certainly more recently), so what happens when you put them together in a spacious and well-equipped family seven-seat SUV, well you get a Hyundai Santa Fe of course! Introducing the rugged yet refined all-new, 5th generation SANTA FE, designed to merge outdoor adventure with everyday life, and comes with a big booty too.
With over 26,000 SANTA FEs sold in New Zealand since 2000, this 5th generation model improves in all aspects including interior and exterior design, space, technology, safety and efficiency.
The NZ launch of arguably one of Hyundai’s most important vehicles was a somewhat intimate affair, with a handful of motoring jotters ready to hear about the new improvements, and then handed the keys to explore the SUV first hand for the rest of the week!
According to Hyundai NZ, the All-new SANTA FE was designed around the ‘Open for More’ concept, which drew on research revealing a high level of interest in outdoor activities among Millennial and Generation-X customers.
The ‘Open for More’ concept seeks to connect the inside with the outside, to expand customers’ everyday experiences. In all-new SANTA FE, this is characterised by spacious second- and third-row seating, and a roomy, practical cargo area – all made possible by an extended wheelbase, efficient packaging, and an enlarged tailgate opening.
All-new SANTA FE features a Panoramic Curved Display incorporating 12.3-inch digital cluster and infotainment displays and a comprehensive SmartSense safety suite.
A completely redesigned exterior also characterises the new-generation model, which now features an appearance that will ensure the SANTA FE does not go unnoticed whilst out on any expeditions in both the town and country. This new upright design language also enables the improved interior space on offer.
Highlights among the driver assistance and active safety features in all-new SANTA FE are the second-generation technologies including Highway Driving Assist (HDA2), Forward Collision Assist (FCA2), and Lane Following Assist (LFA2).
Premium comfort and convenience features in the all-new SANTA FE include a first for Hyundai Bilateral Multi-Console storage space, which is easily accessible for both front and rear occupants, an intuitive 6.6-inch climate control display, and high-speed, dual wireless smartphone charging.
Calligraphy variants also feature first-row Relaxation Seating with Leg Rests, power- reclining second-row captain’s chairs (six-seat option), a digital centre mirror, and for those germaphobes out there, an innovative UV-C Sterilisation Tray that eliminates bacteria from personal items.
All-new SANTA FE launches in economical Hybrid form featuring HTRAC All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) as standard, enabling the SANTA FE to be the perfectly suited for New Zealand conditions.
All-new SANTA FE is due to arrive in dealerships in August this year. The Recommended Retail Price (RRP) for the Active model starts from $84,990 plus on-road costs however, for a limited time there is an introductory launch offer starting from $74,990 plus on-road costs. The Limited has a $96,990 price tag (launch price $86,990) and the Calligraphy is priced at $104,990 ($94,990 for a limited time).
