Hyundai is preparing an updated version of its popular three-row Santa Fe SUV, with the first clear images revealing changes to the exterior design and potential upgrades to the interior technology and powertrain.
The Santa Fe has been a key model for Hyundai in the US, ranking as the brand’s third best-selling vehicle through the first five months of this year. The upcoming facelift aims to sustain this momentum by refreshing the SUV’s appearance and offering improved features.
Recent spy shots show the Santa Fe prototype without the usual front-end camouflage, providing a better look at the redesign. The SUV’s front now features mid-mounted headlights that move away from the current “H” shaped daytime running lights. Instead, the new daytime running lights are vertical bars positioned near the outer edges of the front fascia.
The grille design appears taller compared to the existing model, complemented by a more sculpted front bumper and familiar side air intakes. While the overall shape remains boxy, the SUV is fitted with new geometric wheel designs.
At the rear, the facelift includes a restyled bumper, vertical taillights, and an updated liftgate layout. These elements give the Santa Fe a refreshed yet recognisable look as a three-row crossover.
Details of the interior remain limited, but industry sources suggest a revamped dashboard featuring Hyundai’s latest infotainment technology. The new Santa Fe is expected to incorporate the PLEOS Connect system, which recently debuted in the facelifted Grandeur model. That system includes a large 17-inch display, though in other Hyundai models like the Elantra, smaller 12.9- and 14.6-inch screen options are available.
Under the bonnet, powertrain options are likely to mirror those currently offered. This includes a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. A hybrid variant with a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine delivering 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft is expected to continue in the range.
There is speculation about the introduction of a new range-extended powertrain that could offer improved efficiency, but specific details are yet to be confirmed by Hyundai.
The Santa Fe facelift is part of Hyundai’s broader strategy to maintain appeal in the competitive midsize SUV segment, where modern design and advanced technology play a crucial role in attracting buyers. Updates of this nature are important to sustain sales and compete with rival models offering three rows of seating.
At this stage, Hyundai has not provided an official launch date or comprehensive specifications for the refreshed Santa Fe. However, the visible design changes and potential technology upgrades indicate the company’s intent to modernise its offering and secure its position in the market.
Consumers can expect the updated Santa Fe to remain a practical family SUV with increased focus on driver and passenger comfort through improved interior features alongside the refreshed exterior. Further details will emerge as Hyundai completes development and prepares for public release.
