Introducción
One of the standout vehicles among traditional fuel models at this year’s Beijing Auto Show was undoubtedly the fifth generation Hyundai Santa Fe. Following its debut at last year’s Guangzhou Auto Show, this latest iteration of the Santa Fe has made a more extensive and impactful public appearance in Beijing. With the official announcement that it will hit the market in August, anticipation is building rapidly. The fifth generation Santa Fe not only carries forward Hyundai’s legacy in the SUV market but also introduces significant design and feature upgrades that are poised to set new benchmarks in its segment. This vehicle represents a crucial step for Hyundai as it continues to strengthen its presence and appeal in a competitive market. Hyundai China is promising to bring the Santa Fe closer to consumers who are eager for innovation and reliability in their automotive choices.
Hyundai’s Crown Jewel in the SUV Market
If the eleventh-generation Sonata is holding the fort in the sedan market for Beijing Hyundai this year, the fifth-generation Santa Fe is certainly the “ace” in the SUV segment. Each appearance of the fifth-generation Santa Fe has garnered significant attention. This attention began with its initial reveal through official images and continued through its first showcase in Guangzhou and now in Beijing.
Design Evolution in new Hyundai Santa Fe
The fifth generation Santa Fe draws attention primarily for its design. Breaking away from the urban-oriented design typical of previous Beijing Hyundai SUVs, it adopts a rugged “boxy” style that is currently in vogue. The vehicle uses a new geometric aesthetic design language that highly enhances its recognizability.
Exterior Features
The front face of the Santa Fe features flat lines with a rich layering effect. The diamond bee-style H-shaped grille and integrated H-shaped headlight assembly blend Hyundai’s logo elements seamlessly, significantly enhancing the vehicle’s distinctiveness. The bumper also features a powerful design, adding to the robustness of the front view.
Side and Rear Design
The side profile of the fifth generation Santa Fe clearly displays the “boxy” silhouette but adds plenty of design elements such as elevated fenders that emphasize the vehicle’s muscular feel. The wheel design also features multiple spokes, robust enough to complement the substantial size of the new Hyundai.
At the rear, the design maintains consistency with the front, utilizing many flat lines. The tail lights have positioned relatively lower, incorporating the letter H within their design. The “SANTA FE” model name has embedded under the Hyundai logo, offering a modern yet retro vibe.
Interior Luxury
This year’s Beijing Auto Show showcased more than just exteriors; it significantly featured the interior of the fifth generation Santa Fe, eagerly anticipated by many enthusiasts. The Santa Fe’s interior is minimalist yet sophisticated, with numerous flat lines that complement the vehicle’s overall style. It features a 12.3-inch curved panoramic display screen in the center console, stunning in real-life demonstrations. The screen includes software features tailored to Chinese users, showcasing Hyundai’s commitment to localization.
User-Friendly Controls
The steering wheel adopts Hyundai’s latest family design with a three-spoke layout and dual-tone color scheme, offering a premium feel. Below the center screen, there are numerous physical buttons for quick and safe operation of features like the air conditioning system, a user-friendly alternative to the touchscreen controls found in many modern vehicles.
Comfort and Practicality
The fifth generation Santa Fe features a notably wide central armrest. It has equipped with dual areas for wireless phone charging and ample power outlets to meet the front passengers’ needs. Additionally, beneath the center console, there is considerable storage space designed to hold larger items such as tissue boxes or a lady’s handbag. It is showcasing Hyundai’s thoughtful consideration of practical and user-friendly design elements.
Versatile Seating and Spacious Interior
According to official information, the fifth-generation Santa Fe will offer configurations of 5, 6, and 7 seats. This will allow it to meet diverse space layout needs. The maximum cargo volume can be expanded up to 2046 liters.
At the auto show, the model displayed featured a 2+2+2 six-seat layout. Real-life testing showed that a 180cm tall individual could comfortably fit in all rows, with ample head and legroom. This makes the Santa Fe exceptionally spacious for its class, particularly for passengers typically between 170-180cm in height.
Conclusion
The Beijing Auto Show did not reveal much new information about the model, but it did provide a real-life impression of the fifth-generation Santa Fe. Hyundai China shows considerable advantages in terms of design, spatial layout, and luxurious interior feel. Its modern “boxy” design appeals to families who enjoy outdoor lifestyles. As Hyundai continues to introduce new models and enhance its offerings in the Chinese market, the Santa Fe is expected to effectively demonstrate the brand’s capabilities and commitment to consumers in 2024.