Hyundai’s Santa Fe SUV has welcomed a hybrid variant to its Australian line-up, combining turbo performance with electric efficiency.

The hybrid powertrain will be available on both the Elite and flagship Highlander variants, powered by a 132kW/265Nm 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 44kW electric motor and 1.5kW battery pack

The petrol engine and electric motor combine to develop maximum outputs of 169kW and 350Nm, delivered to all four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.

Hyundai claims the Santa Fe Hybrid uses just 6.0L/100km on the official combined cycle and 6.2L/100km on the urban cycle, which is considerably less than the 3.5-litre V6 petrol variant’s 10.5L/100km consumption.

New, efficiency-enhancing aero-type machine-faced 19-inch alloy wheels complete the variants and set them apart with a unique look.

While the vehicle can tow up to 750kg unbraked – matching the diesel and petrol variants – its 1650kg braked towing capacity is 850kg less than the SUV’s non-electrified grades.

The Santa Fe is available in eight mica and metallic paint colours, with cloth, leather, or Nappa leather upholstery in Black, Cognac and Camel depending on the variant.

Adding further appeal to the Santa Fe is a newly available six-seater option for Hybrid Highlander variants, which brings a pair of second-row captain’s seats and greater interior flexibility to suit a range of lifestyles.

Hyundai continues to deliver an advanced user experience with the availability of dual large, high-definition infotainment and instrument cluster displays.

A clear and intuitive 10.25-inch infotainment and navigation unit is joined by a 12.3-inch supervision instrument cluster.

Every Santa Fe features seven airbags and an extensive SmartSense suite, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto smartphone mirroring, wireless phone charging, alloy wheels, and LED headlights. There are two 12V power outlets and up to four USB charging ports, including one for third-row occupants.

Standard driver assistance technology includes a rearview camera, rear park distance warning, tyre pressure monitoring, third-row air conditioning with outlets for every row, and a drive mode select system.

Santa Fe Elite also introduces powered and heated front seats and a smart power tailgate, while the range-topping Highlander gains Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic glass sunroof.

Highlander also gains a parking collision-avoidance assist-reverse system, blind-spot view and surround view monitors, a head-up display, and remote smart parking assist.

Pricing starts at $63,000 plus on-road costs for the Elite and $69,550 for the Highlander.

Source: Hyundai Motor Company Australia | Sante Fe Hybrid. Evolution of the family SUV

1 December 2022