Although it was previewed late last year, the updated Hyundai Santa Fe (fourth generation) is only going on sale now. Assembled locally at the Inokom plant in Kedah, the SUV is available with either a 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine (Diesel MAX) or a turbocharged 1.6-litre hybrid electric powertrain (Hybrid Plus and Hybrid MAX).
Prices range from RM185,888 to RM205,888 (excluding insurance), and the first 100 customers will enjoy a RM10,000 discount as their reward for being early bird buyers.
As before, the Santa Fe comes with a comprehensive list of standard equipment and features that enhance both comfort and safety. The cabin has premium soft-touch materials, with an intuitive layout which places all controls and switches within easy reach of the driver.
A 10.25-inch touchscreen display serves as the ‘command centre’ from which the driver can manage most functions of the vehicle, including entertainment, as well as route guidance with the GPS navigation system. Connectivity is available with Apple CarPlay an Android Auto.
There’s Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control for distribution of cool air throughout the cabin, while the Smart Power Tailgate allows for handsfree opening and closing, adding convenience.
While the 202 ps/440 Nm CRDi turbodiesel powertrain is a familiar unit with the Santa Fe, the Gamma-II T-GDi Hybrid electric powertrain is a fairly new alternative. Total system output is 230 ps/350 Nm and with the electric motor providing supplementary power, the fuel efficiency is enhanced to provide greater range.
The drivetrains of both models feature Hyundai’s Terrain Mode system which customises the engine and drivetrain characteristics to optimise performance on different surfaces (eg sand, snow and mud), while the driver can choose Eco, Sport, Comfort and Smart modes to suit personal preference or driving conditions. The Santa Fe Diesel also comes with HTRAC All-Wheel Drive.
“The Santa Fe has long been a cornerstone of Hyundai’s SUV line-up, consistently meeting the needs of Malaysian families. With its bold design, advanced technology and choice of powertrains, the Santa Fe continues to impress those seeking a versatile and premium driving experience,” said Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Sime Darby Motors.