Hyundai has given the world its first glimpse of a new Santa Fe. With the release of a new teaser photo, the Korean automaker has announced that hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants of the SUV are on their way, as well as a host of interior updates.
The image reveals as slightly bolder Santa Fe, with its daytime running lights and grille combining at the front of the car. The new design incorporates a “T” shape, making Hyundai the second automaker to employ such a design in modern autos. Volvo has had a sideways “T” for its headlights since the current XC90 generation debuted, calling it “Thor’s hammer”. There will, naturally, be comparisons to the Tesla logo.
The Hyundai Vision T concept SUV debuted at the LA Auto Show in November.
Photo courtesy of Hyundai Motor America
The move to debut a hybrid and PHEV version of the Santa Fe comes as no surprise. Hyundai has promised that they will reveals 13 hybrids, six PHEVs, 23 electric vehicles (EVs), and two fuel cell vehicles by mid-decade.
In the U.S., the mode is sold with either a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (185 horsepower) or a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (235 horsepower). Both engines come standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The European version of the model currently only is available with a 2.2-liter four-cylinder diesel power plant, with a manual or automatic transmission.
Front-wheel drive is standard in the U.S. with all-wheel drive available. European models only are available with 4×4.
U.S. buyers can currently choose from three plug-in models in the Hyundai lineup, the Kona Plug-In, Sonata Plug-In and the Ioniq Plug-In. Those models are also available as hybrids, as is the 2021 Hyundai Elantra.
At the LA Auto Show last November, Hyundai unveiled a concept SUV that championed eco-conscious lifestyle choices, including electric power. Though it’s thought that the model serves as a study for the next-generation Tucson, it’s likely that we’ll see some parallels between the Santa Fe hybrid and PHEV, and the forthcoming new Tucson. Hyundai frequently reveals concepts that give hints at new model news.
It’s also quite likely that the Hyundai Santa Cruz utility truck will be born as a hybrid later this year.
The new Santa Fe will be available in Europe starting September 2020. No word yet on when, or if, it makes its way to U.S. dealerships.
