All-new Hyundai Santa Fe coming to PH Q1 2024

Yes, you read that headline correctly just now. Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc (HMPH) has just confirmed that the next-generation Santa Fe is on its way here. More importantly, they brought physical examples to the country as a special preview.

According to the automaker, the fifth generation Santa Fe is set to arrive in the Philippines in Q1 2024. That means we can expect the all-new midsize crossover SUV to be here between January to March of next year.

First revealed last July 2023, the next-generation Santa Fe features a brand new look that appears to have been inspired by the new Land Rover Defender. It comes with a boxy yet sleek design that Hyundai claims emphasizes the nature-meets-city appeal while also incorporating outdoor lifestyle trends.

Size-wise, the all-new Santa Fe comes in at 4830mm long, 1900mm wide, 1720mm tall, and has a 2815mm wheelbase. Side-by-side with the outgoing generation and the next-generation midsize crossover SUV is longer by 45mm, taller by 10mm, and gets an additional 50mm for its wheelbase (width remains the same).

Like the exterior, the interior of the all-new Santa Fe was also given a major redesign. The dashboard gets a pair of high-resolution displays that show the multi-information display/instrument cluster and the touchscreen media display.

While no exact specifications were mentioned, the Santa Fe in other global markets is available with such features as; a pair of wireless charging pads, LED ambient lighting, Nappa leather, four-zone climate control, and a suite of intelligent driver aids. Last, but not least, the PH-spec will have seating for 7 people based on the preview model they brought.

Under the hood, the all-new Hyundai Santa Fe for the Philippine market will get two powertrain options. The first option is the 2.5L Theta III turbocharged four-cylinder engine. No output figures were shared by HMPH although in international markets, this particular engine cranks out an impressive 281 PS along with 421 Nm of torque. Power is then sent to an 8-speed automatic gearbox which comes with the brand’s HTrac all-wheel drive system as standard.

Aside from the 2.5L turbo, the Santa Fe will also be available with a 1.6L turbo hybrid engine. This one makes 230 PS with 350 Nm of torque and is coupled to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid version will follow at a future date and will most likely come in front-wheel drive only.

Sorry turbo-diesel fans, Hyundai is no longer offering a diesel-powered version of the midsize crossover SUV.

With the next-generation Hyundai Santa Fe set to make a splash as early as Q1 2024, we won’t be surprised if there is already buzzing interest from interested customers who are looking to get one next year.