It has divided opinions, that’s for sure. And now after the initial unveiling, Hyundai has revealed all details and specs for the fifth-generation, ‘MX5’ 2024 Santa Fe. The new-generation model has just been confirmed to go on sale in Australia in the first half of 2024.
We’ve already seen the exterior design, but to refresh your memory, the 2024 Santa Fe goes for a boxier and chunkier styling philosophy compared with the outgoing model. Some say it seems to have borrowed elements from the Land Rover Defender, and others suggest some SsangYong models – especially at the back.
Whatever inspires it, it is sure to turn heads for one reason or another. Hyundai describes the design as efficient and boxy, while also showcasing a powerful presence that’s suited to both urban and natural settings. SangYup Lee, executive vice president and head of the Hyundai Global Design Centre, said:
“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 with a premium customer experience.”
The new model will launch in 10 exterior colours, or 11 in North America, with glossy black sections finished in paint that has been made by recycled carbon materials. The Ecotronic Gray for North America uses a natural bamboo charcoal coating as well.
And then the interior will be available in five colours, including Obsidian Black, Supersonic Gray, Pecan Brown, Forest Green, and Black Ink.
Four powertrain configurations have been confirmed, with some available in select market only. It looks like there will be no diesel option.
In Korea and North America the 2024 Santa Fe will be offered with a 2.5-litre turbo-petrol producing 207kW and 422Nm, with an eight-speed dual-clutch auto, as well as a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol hybrid that produces 132kW from the engine alone (a combined figure hasn’t been mentioned, but the outgoing hybrid produces 169kW).
In Europe it’ll be offered with a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol in either hybrid or plug-in hybrid form. Both are matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. The plug-in hybrid version produces 118kW and 265Nm from the 1.6 alone. A combined output hasn’t been mentioned, but a similar setup in the outgoing Kia Sorento PHEV develops 195kW.
For other markets there’s also a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder that develops 143kW, connected to a conventional eight-speed automatic. Hyundai says 0-100km/h can been achieved in 11.5 seconds in the base 2.5, or 8.0 seconds in the 2.5 turbo, and 9.5 seconds in the hybrid, and 9.1 seconds in the PHEV.
Inside, passengers are treated to dual wireless phone charging pads, a USB-C port, and a “first-of-its-kind” UV-C Sterilisation Tray on the glove box. Hyundai says the tray provides easy “sterilisation of frequently used items” such as mobile phones.
The new model will offer over-the-air updates so customers can ensure their vehicle is equipped with the latest software, and buyers will be offered a “first-in-class” Digital Key 2 for vehicle access and engine start. This key essentially turns your smartphone into a remote control for the vehicle.
In terms of passenger space, the new model offers 35mm of extra second row legroom over the outgoing model in the petrol models (20mm for hybrid models), and legroom in the third row has increased by 15mm. Headroom is up by 69mm in the third row thanks to that boxy and tall exterior.
Overall, the new model offers more comfort and convenience features than any predecessor, with a number of class-first or class-leading highlights. To help celebrate the launch of the fifth-gen model, Hyundai has put together a special XTR concept kitted out with all kinds of off-road gear (pictured above). Although it is just a concept and not intended for production, it does show the potential enhancement opportunities.
Hyundai Australia is yet to outline local specifications and prices, but such details are expected ahead of its arrival in the first half of next year.
