The new, bigger Hyundai Sante Fé range, of which CARtoday.com associate editor Hailey Philander recently test drove the seven-seater 2,2 CRDi model was has been launched in South Africa, with prices starting at just under R320k.


Compared with the outgoing model, the new generation SUV is 175 mm longer, 45 mm wider and 60 mm higher and the wheelbase has been extended by 80mm. The re-designed front end sports a new grille that not only helps to accentuate the elegance of the decked bonnet, but accommodates changes made to the bumper section - recessed fog lamps and a lowered air intake and valance. The new, pod-type headlights also give the new Santa Fe a sportier appearance.


The Korean’s shoulder lines are highlighted by chrome-trimmed door handles and two-tone mirror housings. Clear side indicator lenses compliment the look of the wrap-around light clusters, while the colour of the lower body cladding matches that of the front valance. At the rear, wrap-around tail-lights echo the frontal theme. A high mounted LED stop-light is integrated into a roof spoiler and recessed rear fog lights are mounted low in the bumper along with a pair of chrome coated oval exhaust pipes at each corner of the rear end. The Santa Fe sits on with 17-inch alloy rims and 235/65 profile tyres.


The Santa Fé’s common rail CRDi turbodiesel unit incorporates a new low friction balancer shaft, which improves engine smoothness and efficiency. Using a vane and plate design, the variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) helps the 2,2-litre unit deliver 110 kW at 4 000 r/min and 335 N.m of torque from 1 800 r/min. The engine, which CAR’s experienced technical editor Jake Venter describes as “the most refined diesel powerplant” he’s driven, is reportedly capable of propelling the manual 4x2 model from zero to 100km/h in 11,3 seconds and the automatic 4x4 equivalent in 12,9 seconds.


Both new transmissions claim to be lighter, more compact and capable of handling greater torque loads than the previous units. On the five-speed manual, triple cone synchromesh rings operate on first, second and third gears, with a double cone mechanism incorporated on fourth, fifth and reverse. The five-speed automatic transmission features a new, super flat torque converter using three-dimensional flow analysis to optimise the positioning of the blades.


Hyundai’s electronic four-wheel-drive system supplies torque on demand - a series of sensors monitors road and driving conditions, engaging the all-wheel-drive system to ensure that torque is distributed to tyres with grip. That is said to improve efficiency in relation to a permanent four-wheel-drive system by distributing torque more efficiently from the rear axle to the front. When surfaces call for full time four-wheel-drive, a push-button locking facility on the dashboard distributes drive to all wheels. The locking feature has been uprated to include TCB, a tight corner braking mechanism.


In the cabin, Hyundai have attempted to lift perceived quality with the use of leather accents to the gearknob and handbrake, wood grain finishes, more tactile plastics and blue backlighting to the instrumentation. A dual zone air-conditioning system is standard across the Santa Fe range. In seven seat models an additional unit is positioned at the rear, with ducting for the third row of seats.


The audio system incorporates a six-speaker radio and CD player with steering wheel mounted controls. All models feature electric windows and heated exterior mirrors, central locking, a transponder immobilizer/alarm and cruise control.


The longer body has enabled the option of seven seats as opposed to the traditional five. All the models in conventional seating configuration claim improved leg, head and shoulder room, as well as an increase in luggage space (from 847 to 969 litres). The seven-seater has two fold-flat chairs into the cargo bay that provide a third row for passengers. The seats are said to offer 795 mm of legroom, 1 369 mm of shoulder room and 885 mm of headroom.


The top of the range Santa Fe, the 4x4 derivative with automatic transmission, is equipped with an electrically-adjustable driver’s seat. Storage areas include under floor trays at the front and in the luggage area, with additional compartments in arm rests, seat backs, door pockets and in the rear centre console.


Tinted solar glass, extendable sun visors, illuminated vanity mirrors, cup-holders for all occupants, 12-volt power outlets in the cabin and cargo bay, door courtesy lamps, rear map lamps, a battery saver, and a compass in the electrochromatic rear view mirror and a sunroof on the 4x4 are among the convenience features.


Front suspension is of the MacPherson strut type, incorporating enlarged sub-frame bushes for reduced NVH characteristics. At the rear, a multi-link arrangement features a relocated trailing arm that is said to lessen road noise and improve handling.


Hyundai claim to have used various methods of noise control in an attempt to improve the Santa Fé’s on-road refinement. The engine features electronically-controlled mounting points that continually adjust to limit vibration across the rev range and t

Original article from Car