The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5GDI: A Bold Evolution for the Family SUV

The Hyundai Santa Fe has carved a niche for itself as a reliable and versatile family SUV. The 2024 model marks a significant departure from its predecessors, boasting a bolder design, a feature-rich interior, and a new engine under the hood.

From Rounded to Rugged: A Fresh Exterior Design

Gone are the curvaceous lines of the previous Santa Fe. The 2024 model adopts a more rugged aesthetic, drawing inspiration from SUVs like the Land Rover Defender. The most striking feature is the unique headlight configuration, separated from the grille by a distinctive strip of LED daytime running lights. This bold design statement is sure to turn heads.

Inside-Out Comfort: A Functional and Feature-Packed Cabin

The Santa Fe’s interior prioritises both comfort and functionality. The highlight is undoubtedly the high-resolution reverse camera, offering exceptional clarity for those tricky parking manoeuvres. Higher-spec models boast a 360-degree camera system for ultimate peace of mind.

Hyundai hasn’t forgotten practicality either. The cabin features a plethora of storage options, including a traditional glove compartment, a separate upper compartment, a dedicated handbag space beneath the centre console, and even rear-seat pockets.

Technology takes centre stage with a curved touchscreen display seamlessly integrated into the instrument cluster. A digital climate-control panel with a dedicated button for adjusting second-row temperature adds a touch of sophistication. The air vents extend to the B-pillars, ensuring even airflow for all passengers.

Passenger comfort extends beyond spacious seating. Even the base model comes equipped with a wireless charging pad with a handy indicator light, and multiple USB-C ports and a fast-charging outlet cater to everyone’s needs. These features, along with reclining second-row seats and a foldable third row for extra cargo space, solidify the Santa Fe’s position as a true seven-seater.

A Refined Driving Experience: Geared for Modern Needs

Hyundai takes a bold step with the gear selector in the 2024 Santa Fe. Replacing the traditional lever is a unique appendage to the steering column. While it may take some getting used to, it adds a touch of modernity to the driving experience.

The rugged looks are matched by a capable drivetrain. The familiar 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine has been replaced by a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated gas engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination provides ample power, even for hauling a full load up inclines. Eco and Sport modes cater to both fuel-conscious and spirited drivers.

Hyundai prioritises ride comfort, evident in the shock absorbers that deliver a luxurious driving experience. The steering wheel boasts a European-influenced design, adding a touch of elegance to the cockpit. Surprisingly, there is minimal body roll when taking corners at moderately high speed, showcasing the engineering prowess behind the Santa Fe.

In addition, the inclusion of a full-sized spare tyre provides peace of mind for long journeys.

Cost, Specifications, and the Competition

The tested model, the Santa Fe (Luxury), retails for approximately J$10.5 million. Pricing increases for higher trims, reaching J$13.2 million for the SignatureMAX and J$14.5 million for the top-of-the-line Calligraphy.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5GDI presents a compelling proposition for families seeking a feature-rich, comfortable, and stylish SUV. The bold design, combined with a focus on practicality and technology, makes it a strong contender in the ever-competitive compact SUV segment.

Here is a quick look at the key specifications:

- Engine: 2.5-litre naturally aspirated gas

- Horsepower: 277 hp @ 5,800 rpm

- Torque: 311 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

- Transmission: 8-speed automatic

- Drivetrain: AWD

- Gas consumption: 5.29 km/ l

- Fuel Tank Capacity: 67 litres

- Body Type: Compact SUV

- Competitors: Kia Sorento, Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer

Magna Motors Dealership LTD, 630-1511 / 577-3607 www.hyundaijamaica.com