Hyundai’s electrified vehicles have received a lot of praise abroad. However, the company has yet to include these models in its local strategies. Since SA is a small market in the bigger scheme of things, it is at the mercy of global trends – if Hyundai’s global plan is electrified and those are the only products it makes, then we will inevitably receive those too. No production batches powered by specialised engines just for us. Santa Fe, for example, is a great example. In the past, it was available with the proven, 2.2l turbocharged, four-cylinder diesel engine. The default engine is a 1.6l petrol turbocharged with self-charging technology. The diesel is gone. At first, you may think that this new powertrain will be the weak link in an otherwise good package. Santa Fe has been proving itself as a great alternative for families looking for a sport utility vehicle. After driving the vehicle such reservations quickly dissipate. Electrification can replace, or even improve, the benefits that would have been lost if the vehicle had switched from petrol to diesel. While driving, the engine power is switched on without any noticeable interruption. You can choose between a frugal or sporty driving mode. The petrol motor is 132kW/265Nm and the electric motor is 44kW/265Nm. The six-speed auto transmits power to the all wheel drive system. Interior ambience is elegant and clutter-free. The electric assist provides a bridge instantly, without any lag. With its combined 175kW/367Nm, the Santa Fe has the grunt, flexibility, and power of a six-cylinder engine. The claimed 0-100km/h speed of 9.5 seconds seems reasonable considering the 2,675kg weight of the 7-seater. This is all while returning consumption figures of around 7l/100km, which are not bad at any rate for a car this size. One area in which one might have some doubts is towing. Hyundai states braked and nonbraked figures as 750kg and respectively 1,650kg. The second figure is lower than the 2,500kg quoted for the predecessor. Indeed, the new Santa Fe has become somewhat softer as a result of its added sophistication – with attributes like an underside-mounted spare wheel impacting on ground clearance (177mm) for off-road driving.It is a road-biased sport-utility vehicle, and in that environment, it excels. Santa Fe provides a laid-back, highly comfortable driving experience. The cabin is designed to reflect the straight, uncluttered exterior lines, with a large fascia and upright windows. Boxy rear translates into a cavernous luggage compartment. (Supplied by the manufacturer) The steering wheel is heated and ventilated. Also, the rear seats (middle rows) have cooled ventilation. With the third row in place, the boot is 413l. It increases to 2,253l when the third and second seats are folded. Hyundai is known for its long list of features in its executive models. Santa Fe follows suit. Standard features include Bose audio system, leather upholstery and extensive digitisation. The one element that is not included is built-in navigation, but then again, there are many who prefer to use their smartphones’ Google Maps via Android Auto. Only one Elite model is available. At the price, Santa Fe remains a compelling value. For the same price, you can get smaller sport-utility models from traditional premium marques. The badges make them look more dynamic, and they have a stronger curb appeal. However, the Hyundai has a larger and better specification. Hyundai’s infotainment is good but lacks navigation. (Supplied). While ladder-frame sport utility vehicles such as the Everest, Fortuner, and MUX are strong and capable off-road, these lack the sophistication and style of the Santa Fe. The price range is a busy one, but as always you need to choose based on your usage. The cost is R1,249900. The price includes a seven year/200,000km warranty as well as a six year/90,000km maintenance plan. Hybrid components are covered by a separate warranty of eight years/160,000km.
2025-10-28 10:55:22
Hyundai Santa Fe gets more sophisticated with hybrid tech
