After trademarking the “Creta” nameplate for its upcoming B-segment crossover SUV, the South Korean automaker launched the long-awaited 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe facelift in its home country. What does the mid-cycle update bring spick-and-span or improved for the mid-size SUV model?
For starters, it’s laden with safety system previously not standard or unavailable. Autonomous Highway Safety Driving, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Advanced Smart Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection technology are only a few of those driver-oriented safety features.
Furthermore, the chassis and body shell were updated with High Strength Steel as a response to the outgoing Hyundai Santa Fe’s “marginal” rating on the IIHS small overlap crash test. Technology-wise, the rearview parking camera is rated 100 megapixels and optional kit includes a 360-degree Around View Monitor. The JBL speaker in the adjacent press photograph isn’t there just for show.
The 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe facelift benefits from a sound system developed by JBL on the Korea-spec model that’s called “Santa Fe The Prime.” Highlight gizmos include the likes of headlights that also function as cornering lights in the twists, Advanced Parking Steering Support and many more. On the styling front, the front bumper was modified together with the LED daytime running lights, headlamps and fog lights. LEDs are also employed by the taillights, with the rear also benefitting from a more angular bumper.
Trim levels for the South Korean market are determined by the engine option. For the e-VGT R2.0 Diesel Engine you can opt for Smart, Modern, Exclusive and a trim called Exclusive Special. For the e-VGT R2.2 Diesel Engine, the manufacturer offers the 2016 Santa Fe in 3 formats: Premium, Exclusive and Exclusive Special. The two engine comply with the latest EU 6 emission standards.
The 2-liter turbo diesel is a 1,995 cc unit that develops 186 PS (183 horsepower) and 402 Nm (296 lb-ft) from 1,750 to 2,750 rpm. Fuel economy is rated 13.8 km/l or 7.2 l/100 km (32.4 US mpg or 40 UK mpg). The 2.2-liter engine is delivering 202 PS (199 horsepower) and 441 Nm (325 lb-ft) from 1,750 to 2,750 rpm. The 2,199 cc motor is rated 13.4 km/l, translating to 7.46 l/100 km or 31.5 US mpg / 37.8 UK mpg. Both powerplants make a great team with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The Euro and US-spec models are expected to add a 2.4-liter GDI, 2-liter turbo and 3.3-liter V6. A hybrid version of the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe will be launched next in the first months of next year, benefitting from an electric drive module labeled “e-4WD.” The electric motor will power the rear axle of the SUV.
After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News