In 2001, Hyundai launched the Santa Fe, an SUV which has for the length of its life catered to a very specific section of buyers who are looking for something very specific from their vehicle. If you want something rugged, reliable, and affordable without too many extra bells and whistles, the Santa Fe was for you.
After the previous generation failed to capture the imagination of the Middle East, resulting in a decreased market share, Hyundai is hoping to attract new buyers to the Santa Fe’s latest incarnation.
A modern re-design
Hyundai seems to have remedied this with the new Santa Fe, giving it a new sleek and handsome style as part of the design language that is appearing throughout its model range. Don’t be fooled into thinking the new Santa Fe is now all about looking good, however.
Functionality remains excellent with comfortable seating and excellent all round visibility, making the Santa Fe perfect for anyone who regularly takes long trips. Safety features are also present thanks to the SmartSense package, containing useful options like Blind Spot Assist and Collision Warning.
The engines
The second is a 3.5 litre V6 which has a much more impressive 280 horsepower and benefits from a quicker shifting 8 speed gearbox and all-wheel drive as standard. This makes the new Hyundai Santa Fe more than capable of blasting comfortably along the Middle East’s long, open highways.
One thing is certain, the 2019 Santa Fe has style to spare.