๐ฃ๐ ๐๐ผ๐บ๐ฒ๐๐๐ถ๐ฐ ๐ ๐ผ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐น ๐๐๐๐ป๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ถ ๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ป๐๐ฎ ๐๐ ๐๐ฟ๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ฎ๐น ๐๐บ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ฒ๐ป๐ & ๐ง๐ต๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ผ ๐ ๐๐๐ฏ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ฑ
So, before I go in detail , first and foremost , I would like to say a special Thank You to our community member and follower Mr. Muhammad Imran Saleem for sharing these video clips.
Sports & Cross over utility vehicles have taken over the automotive market for around a decade now and no wonder every few months we come across a new version or model globally. Three-row SUVs are also very popular internationally and have a decent share of the market. Although some models came into being very recently, there are many who are ruling the market for decades.
In Pakistan, we also have some options when it comes to local assembled three row models like Honda BR-V, DFSK Glory , Tiggo 8, 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 & they have their own list of models available across the globe and including Pakistan. KIA Pakistan is offering local assembled Sorento since early 2021 although it is an older 3rd generation discontinued global model. Hyundai Pakistan also offered a 3-row model โSanta FEโ but in the form of CBU/ Imported units back in 2019 but at sale price of almost 20 Million, it was a hard sell. The CBU was also a facelift model.
Santa FE is a city in New Mexico State of United States, and it is also one of the most import nameplate for Hyundai. The model first generation went into production in year 2000 and since then it has been a success for the brand. In fact, Santa FE is first ever sports utility vehicle for Hyundai and since its inception and since then it 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 mid size segment and depending upon market, available in 3-row -7 seat option beside 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. You can read about it in detail here > https://bit.ly/3qBJxbC
โ ๐ฃ๐๐๐๐ฆ๐ง๐๐ก; ๐๐๐ฅ๐ ๐ ๐๐ข๐ ๐ โ
There had been a strong rumor for quite sometime that Hyundai Pakistan might introduce the Santa FE. The rumor will soon become reality as a local assembled vehicle was seen BUT not in so much public. The two units were busy there for a video shoot. Hyundai Nishat choose a location near Deosai but well we caught them red handled and once again all credit goers to Mr. Imran. As we knew and now, we can confirm that a 4th generation model will be introduced in Pakistan. Obviously, we cant expect a 5th generation because that model is not yet for sale outside Pakistan and arrival of it in our local market should not be expected either.
Letโs go over 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 are just for pictorial view and scope and we may or may not get these features in all.
Additionally the images here in the post are for model without a panoramic roof but that option is available.
We will analyze the short video clips from Deosai and letโs see if we can capture any information.
โ ๐ฃ๐๐๐ง๐๐ข๐ฅ๐ โ
The 4th generation with chassis code โTMโ went into production in 2018 and got a major facelift in 2020. Hyundai Santa FE is non identical twin of KIA Sorento and both models have been sharing technical under the skin. When the 4th generation Santa FE was introduced in 2018, it was sharing it 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 which would be basis on many upcoming new models for both brands. The platform is to more rigid, lighter, safer , fuel efficient and flexible in providing chassis for unibody crossover, 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 and since then it is in use by all current new generation 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 to aesthetic and other minor improvements but in case of Santa FE, the entire platform was replaced with N3. This resulted an all new much improved driving dynamics beside better interior space and safety. The new platform also helped Hyundai to offer Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid version on the facelift . It is also pertinent to mention that Kia Sorento adopted the same N3 platform but with the introduced of the current 4th generation model, means 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.
โ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ก๐ฆ๐๐ข๐ก๐ฆ โ.
As of footprint, the 4th gen Santa FE is 4785mm in length (L), 1900mm in width (W) and have a wheelbase of 2765mm(WB). The ground clearance stands at 176mm (GC) for overseas model. We may or may not have same number . Fuel tank is 67 liters.
For reference, I will share snapshot for 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.
The above numbers does not tell all the story , a bigger vehicle can have a cramped interior. We need to evaluate all the interior measurements to make a full opinion on the space/ volume.
I will not bring BR-V, Glory into his equation while 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.
โ ๐๐ซ๐ง๐๐ฅ๐๐ข๐ฅ โ
The facelift model of Santa FE , which we will also welcome soon in Pakistan got a major makeover on the front and the design came from the Hyundai design studio in Germany. The new face gives it more modern and luxurious look and as per Hyundai, it followed brand โSensuous Sportinessโ design philosophy. The model got a new cascading wide grill with new headlights integrating into the grill. This provides a wider and sporty character.
There are T shaped LED DRLโs 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 in to amber. Although we donโt now exactly which headlights we will be seeing on our local model, but in one short video clip, it seems there might be a dual LED reflector. In this case there is a typical tun signal next to headlight housing.
We also might be getting a chrome front grill although a dark chrome front grill is also available in overseas market. The front bumper also gets a satin chrome insert and same color continues the lower portion of the bumper. Depending on variant, overseas model also gets puddle lights inside mirrors and courtesy lights in front door handles, and I hope we will see same in our local model.
The wheels on the spotted vehicle are aero type alloys and are 235/55 R19. We donโt know the brand of tires but hopefully we might be seeing an imported brand. Typical roof rails will be available while chrome garnish around the windows in typical fashion. Unlike overseas model, where the rear side and back screen gets privacy screen, we will not get that option. On the rear, LED taillights will be standard and with LED high mount stop lamp as well as rear screen wiper.
Overall , the exterior is modern and appealing although its now a model which will be phased out in international market. Comparing this mode with its corporate cousin the KIA Sorento; Santa FE looks more attractive and tempting although this a very subjective.
โ ๐๐ก๐ง๐๐ฅ๐๐ข๐ฅ โ
The imagery we got from Deosai donโt reveal any details of the interior, but we know how it will look like 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 which holds number of buttons to control, HVAC, media, and other functions. The facelift model also gets a shift by wire transmission similar to Hyundai Sonata, this provides new design of the center console creating ample storage space as available underneath it.
Depending upon variant, an 8โ or 10.25โ infotainment screen is available with smart phone integration with Bluetooth capabilities . Wireless charger is available but there is no option for wireless apple car-play or android auto. Basic models get 4.2โ TFT display with analogue gauges while upper trims get a 12.3โ TFT color display ( something like Sonata ) with digital trip computer and digital speedometer. Because the model spotted in Deosai is a Hybrid, we do know that in overseas market, all Hybrid versions receive a 10.25โ infotainment and a 12.3โ driver instrument panel.
We can expect a similar setup for PK model. It will be interesting to see what infotainment system we will see on local assembled model as the Hybrid version display some information related to hybrid efficiency on the infotainment screen . In local assembled Tucson, a locally supplied head-unit is utilized like many other local cars but in case of Sonata we have an imported unit although a basic version. There is a due possibility, we see an imported unit on our Santa FE. Well, if thatโs the case then that might be a Harman Kardon unit as that is what most of the market gets in the Hybrid models. Again, maybe we get a local unit with a software capable of showing the hybrid efficiency but there is higher probability of same unit as overseas. Keep in mind that the head unit donโt change any settings for the hybrid, it just a display for power transfer between engine, motor, and battery. If we get overseas unit, we might also get a premium 10 speaker sound system including external amplifier. Santa FE also feature a quiet mode, which limits the speaker volume for quieter cabin and a it is also equipped with passanger talk system, in which driver voice can be communicated through rear speaker for easy ease of conversation with rear seat passengers.
Anyways, depending on variant overseas model comes equipped with heated and ventilated seats, 10 or 14-way power driver seat with lumber support while 8-way power passenger seat. There is also a seat walk in switch on front passenger seat , which can be sued by rear passenger or driver 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 third row also gets air vents with fab blower for added air circulation. Power tailgate, rain sensing wipers, power retractable side view mirrors, auto dimming rear view mirror are some of additional feature we might see in our local model.
The Santa FE is available in 2+2+2 or 2+3+2 seating configuration. We most probably will 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 an ideal location for an adult but can be used in emergency situations although it is a perfect space for small kids.
Customizable ambient lighting in dashboard and center console is available on top-of-the-line models in overseas model although LED map lights , vanity lights , USB ports comes standard all across the cabin. I am sure we will be seeing a panoramic roof although avaibality of heads-up display is doubtful. Keep in mind that HUD on Santa FE is colored and display navigation beside speed. There might be no privacy screen option for us, but we can expect the rear door roll up window sunshades. The full-size spare is available but its mounted outside underneath the cargo space. I hope we checkmark most of features seen on the international model in our domestic model .
โ ๐๐ก๐๐๐ก๐ โ
The 4th gen Santa FE facelift is available in multiple configurations which includes 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 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 which is integrated into the transmission. The engine delivers 178HP which in combination of electric motor produced 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 on low speeds, the electric motor moves the vehicle provided the battery have enough charge in it. During acceleration or driving uphill, the engine and motor works in combination for maximum performance . At cruising/ constant speeds, the power is provided either by engine or motor. The regenerative braking systems come into action when brakes are applied or when driving downhill , the motor works as generator energy produced by the motor charges the lithium-ion battery. As of plugin Hybrid version has a bigger lithium-ion battery under rear seats and more powerful motor with combined output of 261HP. Due to larger battery size, it is capable of driving approx. 48 km on 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. Its early to say if Hyundai Pakistan will offer conventional gasoline engines although technically its possible. Hyundai offered plugin variants in limited markets so, I donโt expect that in Pakistan as of now although its not difficult to introduce obviously with much higher price than regular Hybrid.
As per Australian fuel economy figures, the hybrid version has 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 US fuel economy cycle. Obviously, these numbers are under test conditions and may and may not be achieved by the consumers.
โ ๐ข๐ง๐๐๐ฅ ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ก๐๐๐๐๐ฆ โ
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. Type of transmission depends on the engine type, and it can be 6 speed automatics , 8 speed automatic or 8 speed DCT. The hybrid models use 6 speed automatic. Hyundai HTRAC system which is basically the AWD is available and for Hybrid although 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 a FWD version of hybrid.
There is a due possibility that Hyundai Pakistan offer an AWD but video shoot for a vehicle at such a terrain without AWD raise questions. As there were two vehicles and both in same color, there is a due chance that the second vehicle was a backup unit incase something happens to one. Hyundai Nishat has been offering two versions of their all models, so maybe there are two versions of Santa FE as well, FWD and AWD. Again, we are making assumptions currently and we will know more at official launch.
Interestingly, we see few hardcore offroad models of Toyota at filming site along with Santa FE being so called hero of the movie. Please be aware that AWD feature in most of Crossovers including Santa FE and also available in number of sedans and even hatchbacks does not necessarily mean they are off road performers. The AWD feature is there to provide traction in case of mud, snow on paved / unpaved roads BUT these unibody vehicles are NOT appropriate to use on unpaved surfaces with undulations. As per most of official specifications for such vehicles , these vehicles are not designed for an OFF-ROAD activity. Doing so, can damage undercarriage components.
Santa FE Hybrid comes with 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) , driver can select between SNOW, MUD or SAND. The respective TERRAIN Mode automatically transfer the required torque between front and rear wheels for maximum traction.
โ ๐ฆ๐๐๐๐ง๐ฌ โ
When the facelift model of Sata FE shifted to N3 platform, its improved its safety rating as well. 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 overseas model also gets 360 view surround monitor.
I hope we see the same level of safety equipment on our domestic model Santa FE but these things are always doubtful as these comes in cost cutting which is extremely concerning. After 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 be getting a full ADAS suite with all its features.
โ ๐ข๐ฃ๐๐ก๐๐ข๐ก โ
The current auto policy which is effective from 2021 to 2016 has provided incentives for hybrid and electric vehicles in form of reduced duty/ custom on import of parts. Toyota wanted to win the race by introducing the first hybrid model in the country, but it failed as Haval already revealed a local assembled H6 hybrid. We are hearing that Honda Atlas is working on hybrid version of HR-V but as of right now, we 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 next 2 months.
Now the next question would be the price and its very difficult to guess that at this point when the $ is creeping up on daily basis and near 300. Well, I guess that Santa FE might be around 12 Million +/- but with history of Nishat infront of us, they might go as much as 13 Million and maybe more. They might launch with so called INTRODUCTORY PRICE and then bump the price within weeks. As usual Mansha ki Mansha.
Hyundai Nishat should undercut the price of Haval H6 hybrid, which is currently around 12.14 Million. Hyundai has an added advantage of being a 3 row and with lower price they can grab customers. But I will advice and highly recommend Hyundai that , they should introduce a well-equipped model and that includes the safety equipment beside built quality, fit & finish.
With current crisis of economy and extremely 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 market and Hyundai Nishat might be able to get cheaper discontinued CKD kits and other related parts, beside assembly jigs and machinery probably dismantled in outside world.
Good Luck Hyundai Nishat!
[ f-w@ PakWheels.com ]
The new 5th Gen Santa FE here > https://bit.ly/3qBJxbC / https://bit.ly/3P1QYCu
