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Mar 01, 2024

Locally Assembled Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Spotted, Launch Imminent!

Sports & Cross Over Utility Vehicles (SUVs) have taken over the automotive market for around a decade now, and no wonder we come across a new version or model globally every few months. Three-row SUVs

Sports & Cross Over Utility Vehicles (SUVs) have taken over the automotive market for around a decade now, and no wonder we come across a new version or model globally every few months. Three-row SUVs are also trendy internationally and have a decent market share. Although some models came into being very recently, many have been ruling the market for decades. In Pakistan, we also have some options regarding locally assembled three-row models like Honda BR-V, DFSK Glory, Tiggo 8, and Oshan X7, and how we can forget the real off-road capable and most wanted Toyota Fortuner. Globally, when it comes to Koreans, they are not behind and they have their own list of models available across the globe and including Pakistan. Kia Pakistan has been offering locally assembled Sorento since early 2021, although it is an older 3rd generation discontinued global model. Hyundai Pakistan also offered a 3-row model, “Hyundai Santa Fe,” in the form of CBU/ Imported units back in 2019, but at a sale price of almost Rs. 20 Million, it was a hard sell. The CBU was also a facelift model.

Santa Fe is a city in New Mexico State of the United States and one of the most imported nameplates for Hyundai. The model’s first generation went into production in 2000, and since then, it has been a success for the brand. In fact, Santa Fe is the first-ever sports utility vehicle for Hyundai, and since its inception, it has hit almost 5.3 million in global sales.

The Santa Fe first generation was in a compact segment category, but over the years, it grew in size and now targets the mid-size segment depending upon the market, it is available in a 3-row -7 seat option besides a standard 2-row -5 seat version. Hyundai Global recently introduced an all-new 5th-generation model, which will be available for sale in North America, Korea, and Europe later this year.

There had been a strong rumor for quite some time that Hyundai Pakistan might introduce Santa Fe. The rumor will soon become a reality as a locally assembled vehicle was seen but not in so much public. The two units were busy there for a video shoot. Hyundai Nishat chose a location near Deosai, but we caught them “red-handed”, and once again, all credit goes to Mr. Imran. As we know now, we can confirm that a 4th generation model will be introduced in Pakistan. Obviously, we can’t expect a 5th generation because that model is not yet for sale outside Pakistan, and the arrival of it in our local market should not be expected either.

Let’s review the 4th generation and make some expectations about a Pakistani domestic model. I will be sharing images of an Australian model just for reference. The feature and options you see here in these images/ Pictures do not necessarily mean; they will be offered in our local model. We will analyze the short video clips from Deosai, and let’s see if we can capture any information.

The 4th generation, with chassis code “TM,” went into production in 2018 and got a major facelift in 2020. Hyundai Santa Fe is the nonidentical twin of the Kia Sorento, and both models have been sharing technical under the skin. When the 4th generation Santa Fe was introduced in 2018, it shared its underpinning ( Y-Platform) with the 3rd generation Sorento ( the same model we currently have in Pakistan).

Back then, Hyundai and Kia were developing a new modular platform that would be the basis of many upcoming new models for both brands. The platform is more rigid, lighter, safer, fuel-efficient, and flexible in providing chassis for unibody crossovers, cars, and vans; Kia-Hyundai N-platform came into being to meet all these expectations.

The current 8th generation Sonata [same as in Pakistan ] was the first model implementing this new chassis in 2019. Since then, it has been in use by all current new generations of models, for example, Kia K5, Kia Carnival, Hyundai Staria, Tucson, Sportage, as well as the new Sorento. While in early 2020, an all-new 4th generation Sorento was introduced, in June 2020, Hyundai released a facelift of the 4th generation Santa Fe.

Although the facelift included major welcoming exterior and interior updates, there was more to that. Normally facelift includes updates in aesthetics and other minor improvements, but in the case of Santa Fe, the entire platform was replaced with N3. This resulted in an all-new, much-improved driving dynamics besides better interior space and safety. The new platform also helped Hyundai to offer Hybrid and Plugin Hybrid versions on the facelift.

It is also pertinent to mention that Kia Sorento adopted the same N3 platform, but with the current 4th generation model’s introduction, Sorento is now again relevant to Santa Fe under the skin. In other words, the facelifted 4th gen Santa Fe even being an older generation is using the foundation of the current global in-production Sorento.

As of footprint, the 4th gen Hyundai Santa Fe is 4785mm in length (L), 1900mm in width (W) & has a wheelbase of 2765mm(WB). The ground clearance stands at 176mm (GC) for overseas models. We may or may not have the same number. The fuel tank is 67 liters. For reference, I am sharing a snapshot of the other relevant 3-row models with available information.

Tiggo 8 ; 4722mm (L) , 1860mm(W) , 2710mm(WB) , 194mm(GC). Fuel tank of 51 liters.

Oshan X7; 4730mm(L) , 1870mm(W) ,2876mm(WB). Fuel tank 55 liters.

Sorento ; 4800mm(L) ,1890mm(W) , 2780mm (WB), 185mm(GC). Fuel tank is 70 liters.

I will not bring BR-V, Glory into his equation while there is no need to discuss the Fortuner, as that is not related directly to this segment as such, price as well as the capabilities and use.

I will not bring BR-V, Glory into his equation while there is no need to discuss the Fortuner, as that is not related directly to this segment as such, price as well as the capabilities and use.

The facelift model of Hyundai Santa Fe, which we will also arrive in Pakistan soon, got a major makeover on the front, and the design came from the Hyundai design studio in Germany. The new face gives it a more modern and luxurious look, and as per Hyundai, it followed the brand’s “Sensuous Sportiness” design philosophy.

The model got a new cascading wide grill with new headlights integrated into the grill. This provides a wider and sporty character. There are T-shaped LED DRLs, while depending on variants, there can be dual projector high and low beams ( side by side) or dual stacked LED reflector headlights. The models with projector headlights also get the sequential turn signal, which changes the upper portion of DRL into amber.

Although we don’t know exactly which headlights we will see on our local model, in one short video clip, there might be a dual LED reflector. In this case, a typical turn signal is next to the headlight housing.

We also might be getting a chrome front grill, although a dark chrome front grill is also available in the overseas market. The front bumper also gets a satin chrome insert, and the same color continues to the lower portion of the bumper. Depending on the variant, the overseas model also gets puddle lights inside mirrors and courtesy lights in front door handles, and I hope we will see the same in our local model.

The wheels on the spotted vehicle are aero-type alloys and are 235/55 R19. We don’t know the brand of the tires, but hopefully, we might be seeing an imported brand. Typical roof rails will be available, while chrome garnish around the windows will be typical. Unlike the overseas model, where the rear side and back screen get a privacy screen, we will not get that option. On the rear, LED taillights will be standard, with an LED high-mount stop lamp and a rear screen wiper.

Overall, the exterior is modern and appealing, although it’s now a model which will be phased out in the international market. Comparing this mode with its corporate cousin, the KIA Sorento, Santa FE looks more attractive and tempting, although this a very subjective.

The imagery we got from Deosai doesn’t reveal any details of the interior, but we know how it will look as far as layout. Obviously options, features, and equipment we see on the international model might not land here in our local model, but we can hope and wish that we get the maximum out of it.

The facelift model gets a new and high-tech interior. There is a new floating center console that holds several buttons to control HVAC, media, and other functions. The facelift model also gets a shift-by-wire transmission similar to Hyundai Sonata; this provides a new design for the center console creating ample storage space available underneath it.

Depending upon the variant, an 8″ or 10.25″ infotainment screen is available with smartphone integration with Bluetooth capabilities. The wireless charger is available, but there is no option for wireless Apple car-play or Android Auto. Basic models get a 4.2″ TFT display with analog gauges, while upper trims get a 12.3″ TFT color display ( something like Sonata ) with a digital trip computer and digital speedometer. Because the model spotted in Deosai is a Hybrid, we know that in the overseas market, all Hybrid versions receive a 10.25″ infotainment and a 12.3″ driver instrument panel.

We can expect a similar setup for the PK model. It will be interesting to see what infotainment system we will see on a locally assembled model, as the Hybrid version displays some information related to hybrid efficiency on the infotainment screen. In locally assembled Tucson, a locally supplied head unit is utilized like many other local cars, but in the case of Sonata, we have an imported unit, although a basic version.

There is a possibility we will see an imported unit on our Santa Fe. Well, if that’s the case, that might be a Harman Kardon unit, as that is what most of the market gets in the Hybrid models. Again, we may get a local unit with software capable of showing hybrid efficiency, but there is a higher probability of the same unit as overseas. Remember that the head unit doesn’t change any settings for the Hybrid; it is just a display for power transfer between the engine, motor, and battery.

If we get the overseas unit, we might also get a premium 10-speaker sound system, including an external amplifier. Santa Fe also features a quiet mode, which limits the speaker volume for a quieter cabin, and it is also equipped with a passenger talk system, in which the driver’s voice can be communicated through the rear speaker for easy ease of conversation with rear seat passengers.

Anyways, depending on the variant overseas model comes equipped with heated and ventilated seats, a ten or 14-way power driver seat with lumber support while 8-way power passenger seat. There is also a seat walk-in switch on the front passenger seat, which the rear passenger or driver can use to move or recline the front passenger seat. Regular typical leather or even Nappa leather is available.

Dual-zone climate control with cabin air filter is available with air vents in 2nd row, while the third row also gets air vents with a fab blower for added air circulation. Power tailgate, rain-sensing wipers, power-retractable side view mirrors, and auto-dimming rearview mirror are some additional features we might see in our local model.

The Santa Fe is available in a 2+2+2 or 2+3+2 seating configuration. We will probably get the 7-seat configuration. The 2nd-row seats not only slide front and back but also can be reclined while these can be folded down with the press of the button from the cargo area. The third row is not ideal for an adult but can be used in emergencies, although it is a perfect space for small kids.

Customizable ambient lighting in the dashboard and the center console is available on top-of-the-line models in overseas models. However, LED map lights, vanity lights, and USB ports are standard across the cabin. I am sure we will see a panoramic roof, although the availability of a heads-up display is doubtful. Keep in mind that HUD on Santa Fe is colored and displays navigation beside speed. We might have no privacy screen option, but we can expect the rear door roll-up window sunshades. The full-size spare is available, but it’s mounted outside underneath the cargo space. I hope we checkmark most of the features seen on the international model in our domestic model.

The 4th gen Santa FE facelift is available in multiple configurations, which include conventional 178hp 2.5L MPI, 191hp 2.5L GDI, 227hp 2.0L Turbo GDI, 277hp, 2.5L Turbo GDI, 268hp 3.5L MPI engine. Santa Fe is also available in 2.2L diesel, but the more attractive version is 1.6L Turbo GDI hybrid and 1.6L Turbo GDI plugin hybrid.

The HEV/ normal Hybrid uses a 59hp electric motor integrated into the transmission. The engine delivers 178hp, which, in combination with an electric motor, produces a combined 227hp 350Nm of torque. There is a space-saving 270 Volt 1.49kWh lithium-ion battery under the driver seat.

When starting or driving at low speeds, the electric motor moves the vehicle, provided the battery has enough charge. The engine and motor work together for maximum performance during acceleration or driving uphill. At cruising/ constant speeds, the power is provided either by the engine or motor.

The regenerative braking systems act when brakes are applied or when driving downhill; the motor works as a generator energy produced by the motor charges the lithium-ion battery. As of plugin Hybrid version has a bigger lithium-ion battery under the rear seats and a more powerful motor with a combined output of 261hp. Due to the larger battery size, it can drive approximately 48 km in pure EV mode.

As per rumors and now seeing the version in Deosai, we can confirm that we are getting a normal hybrid version for sure, as a hybrid emblem is seen on one of the vehicles. It’s early to say if Hyundai Pakistan will offer conventional gasoline engines, although technically, it’s possible.

Hyundai offered plugin variants in limited markets, so I don’t expect that in Pakistan as of now. However, it’s not difficult to introduce, obviously with a much higher price than regular Hybrid. As per Australian fuel economy figures, the hybrid version has a combined [ city+ highway ] value of 6L per 100km, which means around 17 km per liter for AWD. The same model is rated as 13.5km /liter on the US fuel economy cycle. These numbers are under test conditions and may and may not be achieved by the consumers.

Santa Fe comes with ABS brakes on all 4 wheels with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist function. There is rack-mounted motor-driven power steering. A MacPherson strut front while multilink rear suspension. The type of transmission depends on the engine type, and it can be a 6-peed automatic, 8-speed automatic, or 8-speed DCT. The hybrid models use a 6-speed automatic.

Hyundai HTRAC system, which is basically the AWD, is available, and for Hybrid, FWD comes standard. As mentioned earlier, one of the spotted vehicles is hybrid as we see an emblem on the right side of the tailgate BUT a HTRAC logo is missing. This means that we may see an FWD version of the Hybrid.

There is a due possibility that Hyundai Pakistan offers an AWD, but video shoots for a vehicle in such terrain without AWD raise questions. As there were two vehicles in the same color, there is a chance that the second vehicle was a backup unit in case something happened to one. Hyundai Nishat has been offering two versions of all their models, so there may be two versions of Santa Fe, FWD, and AWD. Again, we are making assumptions currently and will know more at the official launch.

Interestingly, we see a few hardcore off-road models of Toyota at the filming site, along with Santa FE being the so-called hero of the movie. Please be aware that AWD features in most Crossovers, including Santa FE, and also available in a number of sedans and even hatchbacks, does not necessarily mean they are off-road performers.

The AWD feature provides traction in case of mud or snow on paved/unpaved roads, BUT these unibody vehicles are NOT appropriate to use on unpaved surfaces with undulations. As per most official specifications for such cars, these vehicles are not designed for OFF-ROAD activity. Doing so can damage undercarriage components.

Santa Fe Hybrid has multiple drive modes, which you can select using a rotary dial. Under DRIVE mode select, there is SMART, ECO & SPORT, while when switched to TERRAIN mode ( for AWD variant only), the driver can select between SNOW, MUD, or SAND. The respective TERRAIN Mode automatically transfers the required torque between the front and rear wheels for maximum traction.

When the facelift model of Santa Fe shifted to the N3 platform, it improved its safety rating; the overseas model comes standard with front, side, and curtain airbags beside Hill start assist, stability control, downhill assist, traction control & brake assist systems.

N3 platform also provided the model with active safety features in the form of active safety features / ADAS, which includes blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, lane follow, radar and camera-based forward collision avoidance, high beam assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and more. The top-of-the-line models in the overseas model also get 360 views surrounding the monitor. The overseas top model also gets a Blind Spot monitor, which uses a camera in the side view mirror and displays the live video in the driver instrument cluster for the vehicle in the blind spot.

I hope we see the same level of safety equipment on our domestic model Santa FE, but these things are always doubtful as these come in cost cutting which is extremely concerning. After a close inspection of the model, we saw at Deosai the model is missing the radar module behind a rectangular trim on the front lower portion of the bumper in the middle. The video clips are not very clear, so, at this point, we are not sure about it. If this is the case, we might not get a full ADAS suite with all its features.

The current auto policy, effective from 2021 to 2016, has provided incentives for hybrid and electric vehicles in the form of reduced duty/customs on the import of parts. Toyota wanted to win the race by introducing the first hybrid model in the country, but it failed as Haval had already revealed a locally assembled H6 hybrid.

We are hearing that Honda Atlas is working on a hybrid version of HR-V, but we currently have Santa Fe in the pipeline, and the official reveal is not far from now. As per available information, the model will be made public within the next two months.

Now the next question would be the price, and it’s challenging to guess that when the $ is creeping up daily and near 300. Well, I guess that Santa Fe might be around Rs. 12 Million +/- but with the history of Nishat in front of us, they might go as much as 13 Million and maybe more. They might launch with a so-called Introductory Price and bump the price within weeks.

Hyundai Nishat should undercut the price of the Haval H6 hybrid, which is currently around Rs. 12.14 Million. Hyundai has the added advantage of being a 3-row, and with the lower prices, they can grab customers. But I will advise and highly recommend Hyundai they should introduce a well-equipped model that includes the safety equipment besides built quality, fit & finish.

With the current crisis of the economy and highly high-interest rates, car sales are already down, and any unrealistic pricing will not help the sales graphs. As the 4th generation facelift model also utilized the same N3 chassis as Hyundai Sonata, there can be some cost recovery, additionally keeping in mind its production will cease in overseas markets, and Hyundai Nishat might be able to get cheaper discontinued CKD kits and other related parts, beside assembly jigs and machinery probably dismantled in the outside world.

Good Luck, Hyundai Nishat!

Are you waiting for new Hyundai Santa Fe? Please tell us in the comments section.