Hyundai Santa Fe TurboHybrid 1.6T will take you from the concrete jungle to the Great Outdoors
Dusit Thani Laguna Singapore - We're long past the time where Korean cars are seen as basic substitutes for Japanese and European brands, because there's simply nothing basic about the new breed of Korean models.
They don't just feature cutting-edge tech, but also aren't afraid to forge ahead with cool designs that guarantee they stand out from the madding crowd of me-too lookalikes.
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We're at the Singapore launch of the fifth generation Hyundai Santa Fe – its first full model-change since 2018.
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Priced at just under S$278k (at time of writing) for the higher-trim Santa Fe TurboHybrid "Calligraphy" model, the latest Santa Fe is a distinctively chunky and edgy three-row, seven-seater crossover powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged 4cylinder that produces 215hp and 367Nm, which is matched to a 6sp auto.
Bear in mind though, you'll be paying 1.6-litre hybrid-petrol road tax (of about S$742 a year), as opposed to the "loading" that follows an EV's road tax – an EV with an equivalent 158kW will attract about S$1.8k in road tax.
It's difficult to overlook the Land Rover / Jeep overtures, especially with Hyundai trying to play-up the "adventure" aspect of owning the Santa Fe, which we feel suits its new looks to a T.
The 2815mm wheelbase seven-seater is configured in a 2-3-2 layout for maximum passenger occupancy, but this transforms to a fully-flat 1949-litre cargo area with the second- and third-row seats folded away.
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The larger tailgate opening and commodious interior allow one to quickly configure the Santa Fe to suit your every need.
There are even storage bins and cubby-holes abound in the cabin to accommodate your assortment of knick-knacks.
“Since the first-generation SANTA FE’s debut 23 years ago, this iconic SUV has won the hearts of millions of customers around the world,” said Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company.
“The All-New Santa Fe’s bold and powerful identity, which encompasses the boundless outdoors and urban landscape, will establish an unrivalled presence in the mid-sized SUV market.”
“The 2024 SANTA FE SUV represents Hyundai’s foray into refined styling and upscaled tastes,” said Mr. Teo Hock Seng, Executive Chairman of Komoco Motors Pte Ltd.
“This model proves that Hyundai is able to meld impressive design with practicality, while retaining the heart of creating reliable and safe cars that are environmentally friendly,” he adds.
