Does this look familiar? A bit Land Rover Defenderey-ey, perhaps? This is the all-new 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe which will make its full debut next month. And copycat or not, it looks interesting.
Hyundai wants to show off the design of the all-new model, codenamed MX5, before the big reveal, and has released a bunch of images revealing the exterior in full. The tall and boxy shape is undoubtedly inspired by the British icon, but Hyundai has clearly applied plenty of distinctive detail.
The front end incorporates not only pixel-style headlights as part of its latest styling trend, but the lights also spell out ‘H’ just in case there is any confusion. A set of vertical side clusters and hexagonal wheel arches also provide an edgy attitude.
Towards the rear, the panel contours are very flat and straight, with a sophisticated D-pillar again similar to Land Rover aesthetic, in our opinion. There is enough distinction there to provide a unique theme while blending in a classy and handsome stance. Speaking about the design, SangYup Lee, Hyundai Global Design Center boss, said:
“The all-new Santa Fe is an SUV that finds a perfect balance between city life and the great outdoors, handling everything from busy family itineraries to car camping adventures. With its longer wheelbase, roomy interior and terrace-like tailgate space, the new Santa Fe leans into its SUV strengths to offer more versatility than ever before as well as a premium customer experience.”
The new model is larger than the outgoing model, presenting a more practical interior that is described as accommodating effortlessly for an outdoor lifestyle. The second and third rows are “fully foldable” to open up “class-leading” interior space.
Some of the highlight features, although Australian specs are yet to be confirmed, include a curved display for the dash with twin 12.3-inch screens, dual wireless phone charging, and an overall clean and clutter-free layout. Various parts are also made from recycled plastic.
There’s a short front overhang on the outside, ideal for off-roading and steep entrances, as well as 21-inch alloy wheels on the cards.
Judging by the badge on the back of the show car, a ‘2.5T’ engine will be offered, likely based on the unit seen in the Sonata N Line and Genesis GV70 2.5T (213kW and 224kW in Australia, respectively).
A full debut will take place on Hyundai’s YouTube channel in August, with an Australian launch confirmed for the first half of 2024. It’ll join the recently-launched next-gen Kona.
