More details of the all-new, fifth-generation 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe have been released this morning ahead of its Australian arrival in the first half of next year. Additional images have been released as well – unfortunately, the rear looks just as ugly as it did in the initial images.
The new model takes on an ‘Open for More’ philosophy, which focuses on connecting the exterior with the interior and expanding the overall user interaction with the vehicle. For example, a longer wheelbase accommodates a ‘terrace-like’ boot area, apparently, also thanks to an enlarged tailgate opening.
Inside, there’s a new ‘First-row Relaxation Seat’ with leg rest, allowing passengers to really stretch out and recline into an “almost weightless” position. Hyundai says it sets a new standard for comfort, in this class. A six-seat option will also be available for added comfort, bringing in two captain’s chairs with armrests in the back.
Hyundai is also introducing something it class a “world first” bilateral multi-console storage solution, that is available to both front and rear passengers. And to further support the idea of filling up the vehicle with passengers in search for adventure, the new model features a digital centre mirror, providing a clear view for the driver regardless of how many passengers are inside.
A first-in-class panoramic curved display is featured in the front, with twin 12.3-inch digital screens. And then a 6.6-inch screen is used for the climate control settings to help separate the controls.
Specific powertrain options for Australia are yet to be confirmed, but from a global perspective, Hyundai will be offering a 2.5-litre turbo-petrol with 207kW, a 1.6-litre turbo hybrid with 132kW, and a 1.6-litre turbo plug-in hybrid with 118kW. Combined figures for the hybrids haven’t been mentioned, but similar setups produce 169kW and 195kW in other models, respectively. A 143kW 2.5-litre petrol will also be offered in some markets.
Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes a claimed 11.5 seconds for the 2.5 petrol, 8.0 seconds for the 2.5 turbo, 9.5 seconds for the hybrid and 9.1 for the plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
In terms of the dimensions, the 2024 Santa Fe measures 4830mm long, 1900mm wide, and rides on a wheelbase spanning 2815mm. That makes it 45mm longer than the current, outgoing model. It is the same width, while the wheelbase is 50mm longer in the new model. It’s also 10-20mm taller, depending on the trim level.
Hyundai says second row legroom has increased by 35mm, and legroom in the third row has increased by 15mm. Headroom has also increased by 69mm in the third row to really expand its people-carrying ability. Boot space is rated at 1148L, up 120L over the outgoing model.
Full Australian details and prices are yet to be confirmed but we should know more in the coming months.
So far this year, through October, the local division has sold (delivered) 5245 examples of the current model. That gives it 5.1 per cent market share, enough for seventh place in the crowded segment, according to VFACTS figures. The figure is up an impressive 46.4 per cent on the same 10-month period last year.
