Hyundai Santa Fe now have 3 row seats, distinctive look, luxury interior and powerful performance.
In recent years, the definition of an SUV has undergone significant changes, yet the classic two-box profile remains timeless. The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe exemplifies this enduring design, embracing a boxy aesthetic that is more popular than ever. This shift towards a rugged and outdoorsy image aligns perfectly with current trends.
Santa Fe Radical New Look:
Hyundai’s designers took a bold approach in reimagining the Santa Fe, starting from the rear and working forward. This focus on the tailgate and cargo area resulted in a strikingly rectangular design, a departure from its predecessor’s swoopier lines. Despite only minor increases in dimensions, the new Santa Fe boasts significantly improved passenger and cargo space.Design elements like distinctive lighting, sharp body creases, and wheel arch detailing elevate its appearance, especially with the Earthy Brass matte paint option.
Santa Fe Luxury Interior:
The 2024 Santa Fe stands out with its striking appearance, both inside and out. The interior is spacious and airy, offering impressive refinement and upscale materials.Opening the tailgate reveals a wide opening and a low cargo floor, making loading and unloading easier. The addition of a standard third row of seats, absent in the previous generation, enhances the Santa Fe’s versatility. The cabin is well-appointed, featuring high-quality materials and thoughtful design. The Calligraphy trim, in particular, boasts luxurious amenities such as nappa leather seats, dual wireless phone chargers, and an extendable footrest for the driver’s seat.
Power and Performance:
The new Santa Fe has seen a significant weight increase, impacting its performance. To compensate, Hyundai made the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine standard, delivering 277 horsepower. Despite the weight gain, the Santa Fe remains competitive in its class, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds.
One of the main drawbacks is the choice of an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission for the turbocharged engine. This transmission, while quick once in motion, exhibits laggy behavior at low speeds, detracting from the overall driving experience. Additionally, fuel economy has taken a slight hit compared to the previous model.
Conclusion:
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe represents a bold evolution of the family SUV, focusing on interior space, features, and comfort. Its distinctive design, both inside and out, strikes a balance between style and practicality. Despite some concerns regarding the transmission and fuel economy, the new Santa Fe offers refinement and luxury typically found in higher-priced SUVs, making it a compelling choice in its segment.
