All-new Hyundai Santa Fe storms into Middle East showrooms

Since the launch of the 1st generation model in the Middle East, the Santa Fe has proven highly popular for its practicality and reliability, and the new model adds style, innovation and premium quality to the mix. Global sales have so far topped 2.5 million, and Hyundai is confident that the all-new, 3rd generation Santa Fe will win many new customers to the brand, while appealing particularly to families looking for a tough, versatile on-road SUV.

In the Middle East, the stylish SUV is set up to up the bar for competitors such as the Toyota Fortuner, Mazda CX-9 and Ford's Edge and Explorer models. In particular, it is expected to prove popular with young families whose primary requirement is for a stylish and practical car to tackle everyday life in an urban environment.

Tom Lee, Head of Hyundai Middle East's Regional Headquarters, said: "The all-new Santa Fe is the latest demonstration of Hyundai's ongoing commitment to producing modern, premium cars." He continued: "The new generation Santa Fe will not only appeal to existing customers in the region with its fresh design and improved levels of standard technology, but will attract a new range of Middle East buyers looking for a stylish, premium and authentic SUV."

Following Hyundai's new 'Fluidic Sculpture' design philosophy, the all-new Santa Fe features a unique interpretation called "Storm Edge". This captures the strong and dynamic shapes created by nature during the formation of a storm. The design implements the trademark Hyundai hexagonal grille used in most of its new line-up, creating a futuristic and urban-style SUV image. The interior design is equally bold and modern, especially in the front where the dashboard and centre console exude a finish akin to that of a luxury modern sedan.

The all-new Santa Fe is a 'Modern Premium' car in every way, and sets new standards of luxury and comfort in the class. In addition to the use of high quality materials throughout the cabin, including the option of full leather upholstery, the new model will ensure a comfortable journey for occupants whatever the region's climate throws at it, with state-of-the-art manual or automatic air conditioning as standard and even the option of a glovebox cooler.

Families will appreciate the remarkable versatility of the all-new Santa Fe, which also offers class-leading amounts of leg-room. The second row seats can slide, recline and split-fold to offer a wide range of seating set-ups, while two additional foldaway seats in the boot can also be specified. The luggage compartment itself has two neat storage areas under the floor and provides a huge 585 litres of storage space.

And with families in mind, Hyundai has ensured that the all-new Santa Fe is one of the safest vehicles in the market. Cutting-edge active safety systems include Electronic Stability Control, a Hillstart Assist Control system that prevents the vehicle from rolling when on an incline, as well as a Brake Assist System, which increases braking pressure in an emergency situation. In addition to a Traction Control System, Vehicle Stability Management is available on top-of-the-range models and promotes stable car manoeuvring when the car may be liable to skidding.

The all-new Santa Fe will be available in the Middle East in a sporty five seat form, with the option of two fold-down seats in the boot. A long-wheelbase version with three proper rows of seats will go on sale in 2013. The new model will offer a choice of three powerplants: a new 3.3l V6 engine producing 270bhp and up to 318Nm of torque, a 2.4l 4-cylinder unit delivering 176 bhp and maximum torque of 227 Nm and a 2.2l diesel engine providing up to 197bhp and 421 Nm of torque. Customers will have a choice of 2 or 4WD, and six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

Always innovative, Hyundai has ensured that the all-new Santa Fe offers a range of features and technologies that are normally associated with premium sedans and SUVs from the class above. These include Smart Navigation, a rear parking camera, an automatic rain sensor, an electronic parking brake, a premium hi-fi system with 4.3 inch TFT-LCD display and virtual surround system, and a vast panoramic sunroof.