Bolder Looks, Advanced Tech: The New Santa Fe Raises the Bar
A refreshing entry in the family SUV segment, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe arrives with a stunning facelift and a leap towards premium market aspirations. With a history stretching back to the dawn of the millennium, the fifth generation of Hyundai’s popular large SUV is ready for launch. With a full reveal slated for August, the anticipation around this Korean masterpiece is palpable.
Despite Hyundai and its sister company Kia’s significant investment in their electric vehicle lineup, they affirm the continued importance of internal-combustion-engined cars with the launch of the new Santa Fe. We expect to see this dazzling newcomer hit the showrooms by year’s end, closely followed by a revamp of its sibling model, the Kia Sorento.
In-car Comfort: Thoughtful Features for All Passengers
The 2023 Santa Fe doesn’t skimp on comfort. Standard features include a plethora of electric seat adjustments, including the crucial lumbar support to stave off backaches during extended drives. Passengers aren’t left wanting either; the Santa Fe’s spacious cabin and middle row with adjustable sliders and reclining seatbacks ensure a comfortable ride for all occupants.
Accommodating larger families is a breeze with Santa Fe’s standard seven-seater configuration. Impressively, the two third-row seats are adequately roomy even for adults, making this a genuinely versatile SUV.
Performance and Safety: A Winning Combo
An automatic gearbox graces all models, providing eight speeds for the diesel variant and six for the hybrids. Regardless of the engine and transmission you opt for, rest easy knowing that a suite of active safety features comes standard with every model for your peace of mind.
Enthusiasts will appreciate the decent drive offered by the hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains. The 227bhp mild-hybrid version offers two- or four-wheel-drive options, while the 261bhp PHEV comes exclusively with four-wheel drive.
Tech Galore: Premium and Ultimate Trims
The Premium trim presents a generous array of tech features, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a customisable 12.3-inch digital dashboard, full LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, a robust 10-speaker audio system, a reversing camera, parking sensors, and heated electrically adjusted seats. Opt for the Ultimate trim, and you’ll enjoy a large Head-Up Display, a panoramic glass roof, an autonomous driving assistance pack, 360-degree cameras, and ventilated front seats.
Specifications at a Glance
* Body style: Sport Utility Vehicle
* Number of doors: 5
* Acceleration 0-62 mph: 8.8 to 9.2 seconds
* Cargo volume: 571 L, expands to 1,649 L with seat area
* Engine cylinder configuration: Straight engine
* Dimensions: 4,785 mm L x 1,900 mm W x 1,710 mm H
Pricing Details
With an RRP ranging from £43,240 to £51,680, the Hyundai Santa Fe offers a competitive price for an SUV that’s packed with features and versatility.
The Verdict
The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe delivers a revitalised and bold aesthetic, paired with cutting-edge technology and a comfortable, roomy interior. It’s a clear testament to Hyundai’s commitment to delivering high-quality, family-friendly vehicles that don’t compromise on style, safety, or performance. Keep an eye out for this SUV superstar—it’s set to make a splash in the SUV market.
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