The New Hyundai Santa Fe
Published: 16th April 2006
Hyundai Santa Fe
At the front, the new grille emphasises the powerful character lines that flow down the bonnet from the A pillars. It also unifies the upper and lower body sections and brings together the dynamic angled sweep of the clear-lens light clusters, which themselves flow back neatly into the curve of the pronounced front wheelarches.
The front screen is relatively steeply raked, conveying a more car like appearance - a quality that’s also captured by the gently tapering side glass section and the angled D pillar.
The rear three-quarter view demonstrates the thinking that has refined every aspect of the exterior design. The extra length has allowed a more sweeping profile than before, with the wrap-around rear light clusters extending into the flared waistline. On higher grade models, the LED high-mounted stop light is neatly integrated into the rear spoiler, adding to the overall design harmony. The wide stance is indicative of exceptional control and road holding and the practical, deep-opening rear tailgate neatly rounds off the flowing style.
Interior Refinement and Comfort
Where the new Santa Fe is concerned, quality runs deep, emphasising the model’s sharp progress into the territory typically occupied by European premium SUV models, such as the Volkswagen Touareg, BMW X5 and Land Rover Discovery.
The cabin benefits from a modern, integrated design, finished in a tasteful combination of high quality materials. The new seating is designed for superior comfort, with additional head, shoulder and legroom for all on board.
The increased exterior dimensions translate into additional space, with, for example, 25mm extra legroom for the driver and an extra 84 litres of load space at the rear. Access is easier, too, with wider doors, a higher roofline and more space between the front and rear seats.
Keeping the cabin environment cool is no problem, thanks to dual zone climate control or air-conditioning, according to model grade. Furthermore, on models fitted with seven seats and climate control, those in the rear-most seats benefit from their own independent ventilation controls.
A high quality feel has been designed and engineered into every detail, from the location of the electric window controls, to the pleasing action of the rake adjust and telescopic steering wheel. Modern blue instrument lighting, a first for Hyundai, is easy on the eye and improves visibility while further raising the sense of refinement inside the cabin.
While style was paramount, sound ergonomics also shaped the design of the new centre console, for greater ease of use and additional storage spaces. On higher-grade models, the full leather interior creates a truly luxurious ambience, while all versions feature a fine wood grain finish on the dashboard.
A foot operated parking brake, meanwhile, as well as being practical, keeps the centre console area even tidier and less cluttered and leaves more room for storage.
Hyundai Santa Fe
Our Hyundai Santa Fe Guide lists the full specification of the current UK Santa Fe range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £21,995 - £26,670
Body Style:
Fuel:
/ 
Models in the range: 10
We have road tested the Hyundai Santa Fe, to read our in-depth car review:
Hyundai Santa Fe Review - May 2007
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 21st Sep 2008
