For the new Santa Fe, Hyundai Motor has taken a bold step in a new direction with a strong cubic form like that used in the Kia EV9. While the Kia model line is new and can have a totally different language, the Santa Fe is already four generations old and has a more established style.
‘Nature-meets-city appeal’
The design of the fifth generation s the boldest departure to date, no longer looking like just another mid-sized SUV.
Hyundai calls it ‘nature-meets-city appeal’ shaped by big data around the latest outdoor lifestyle trends.
It’s an unconventional approach with the design typology being lifestyle-based to maximize rear cargo capacity and better accommodate outdoor and urban activities.
H-shaped design elements
The more boxy shape starts with a high bonnet line flanked by H-shaped headlamps and bold, sharp fenders. The headlamps harmonize with the H-motif lower front design to enhance visual completeness, and H-shaped design elements also reinterpret Hyundai’s ‘H’ emblem.
The long silhouette, like the larger Palisade, is more distinctive with the lengthened wheelbase and powerful volume around the fenders, with sharply defined wheel arches.
Defined by its larger tailgate, the rear end is simpler, balancing the overall exterior design. The lighting units also have H-shapes, providing a distinctive visual signature for the new Santa Fe
Tailgate a design feature
The longer wheelbase (no numbers given yet) should mean more generous living space within. The more accommodating tailgate creates a spacious interior with a terrace-like feel at the rear when open.
This feature should be a strong selling point of the new SUV, just as the tailgate of the Range Rover became a popular seating area to watch games. In the Santa Fe’s case, the designers envisage the tailgate being used for a wider variety of purposes besides just being an opening to load cargo.
Horizontal and vertical lines
The interior design theme emphasizes horizontal and vertical lines, with an H-motif design applied to the dashboard and air vents to enhance the sense of openness. The choice of interior and exterior colours has been inspired by natural light.
As would be expected, there’s a variety of high-tech features such as a Panoramic Curved Display and dual wireless charging. The curved display connects the 12.3-inch digital cluster and infotainment system and enhances visibility of the display for the driver.
Drivetrain information is not being revealed yet will be available but as the current generation is already electrified, there should continue to be hybrid powertrains.
While Hyundai Motor doesn’t argue openly about the need to continue offering choices that still include combustion engines, it does seem to be doing so. But it is unlikely that the new Santa Fe will have a pure electric drivetrain as that would be left to the IONIQ line to provide.
Hyundai Motor will use YouTube for the global launch of the new Santa Fe in August.
