This propelled Hyundai into its current category of SUV queen. In 2000, the Korean brand presented its Santa Fe as a world premiere. A memorable name (city names in New Mexico in the United States) that left no doubt about the clientele for which it was intended in the first place. However, it was well distributed in Europe, while a compact model positioned in the C segment. The appearance of the future bestseller Tucson in 2004 forced him to undergo some genetic mutations.which made it move to the D segment, where it still dominates today.

After two new generations in 2006 and 2012, in 2018 it was replaced by the latest and current one. TM code name. Especially appreciated by Americans (119,589 sales in 2022), Last year, the Santa Fe still found 1,294 customers in France. Far ahead of their competitors Toyota Highlander (346 copies) and Ford Explorer (114 copies).

A complete change of philosophy

Only four and a half years after entering the market it is already being processed ! It’s quite rare to note, Hyundai has short model update cycles compared to the market average (it’s about 6-7 years). The manufacturer has just presented the first images of the fifth generation, and it is a pleasant surprise. It’s often said that the best soups are made in old pots, but Hyundai defies that adage.

Let’s say right away: this new Santa Fe changes everything ! Gone are the curved shapes, slender lines and two-story headlights. It should be much stronger, more massive, more geometric. A design that brings it even closer to large American SUVs. Chevrolet Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Pilotand even land rover defender ! As with recent additions to the range, it adopts the ‘pixel’ design dear to Hyundai.

Always family oriented

Him flat surfacesher long wheelbase and, conversely, its short overhangs, the Santa Fe maximizes internal space continue to place the complete family in three rows. The grid, vertical, is now displayed a much more personal panel. Two H-shaped headlights (of course, for Hyundai) are connected by a light strip that visually defines the appearance of the car. This is slightly more biased at the back, where excessively low headlights extend to the rear fenders. There is also an H-shaped light sign.

On board we find a new philosophy of Hyundai interiors, Zen and refinement. The massive dashboard includes a digital touch screen (no cover) shared by the dashboard and infotainment system. Fortunately, they are coming together always physical orders. We worked on modularity on the back panel offer (according to these first pictures) a completely flat floor when the seats are folded. We will have to wait a little longer learn more about its engines (currently in hybrid and battery hybrid in France). The official presentation of this Santa Fe’s fifth title is scheduled for the month of August.

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