Hyundai launched their all new Santa Fe in Korea today and it looks a beauty.
Looking slightly different to the spy shots seen over the previous months, though still a big improvement on the previous model.
150mm longer, 55mm wider and 50mm higher than its predecessor, a move which was necessary in order to give the similar sized Tucson its own breathing space. Wheelbase has also increased by 80mm giving it a new base length of 2700mm, putting it in the large SUV market alongside its Sorento stablemate.
At 4670mm in length, the new Santa Fe now has room for 7 seats. These never need to be taken out as they cleverly fold away leaving the rear surface flat.
The engine range, of which all details have been not yet released, should include a new common-rail diesel engine. This new unit should be around 2.2 litres and produce in the region of 150 ps with 335 Nm of torque.
The new engine will be mated to a new five speed gearbox, with the transmission regulated electronically. Just like the popular Tucson, this new Santa Fe will operate Hyundai’s advanced four wheel drive system, allowing it to switch automatically between two wheel drive and the sure footedness of four wheel drive when necessary. A switch on the dashboard forces an equal partitioning between the front and rear axle. Also 2WD versions will be available.
The whole chassis has also been revised, in order to be able guarantee a higher comfort level. The wishbone framework is based on a McPherson system, along with multi-link suspension.
Safety hasn’t been overlooked either with the usual twin airbags now being joined with lateral, side, and curtain airbags ensuring protection the full length of the vehicle, giving passengers on the third row more safety. The airbag for the first passenger can be eliminated when small children are placed in the front. Also active switches for the first seats are new addition equipment to the range, just like the three point seat-belt for middle the passenger on the second row.
Hyundai hope to sell plenty of the new Santa Fe’s in 2006, 60,000 of those expected in Korea and there will be 150,000 to export. The versions for the European and American market will go into production this month. A UK launch date has not yet been set but should happen around March 2006.