2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Unveiled with European Design

author: FutureCar Staff    

The Hyundai Palisade has long been the go-to choice for Hyundai customers seeking a three-row SUV with minivan practicality and a higher ride height. However, Hyundai has now introduced the all-new Santa Fe, which offers a rugged-yet-refined option for those who also enjoy occasional off-road adventures. Despite being slightly smaller than the Palisade, the Santa Fe's redesigned exterior and competitive starting price make it a worthy contender against more luxurious SUVs. If Hyundai can offer reasonable pricing and reliable powertrains, the 2024 Santa Fe has the potential to be a massive success.

The 2024 Santa Fe is set to arrive in North America and Europe in 2024, with South Koreans able to place orders starting in September of this year. As we await more information on pricing and available drivetrains for the North American market, it's worth noting that the European version of the SUV will have a different appearance. Unfortunately, the European model will not feature the bold and distinctive front design found in other markets.

The Hyundai Santa Fe's "H" design is a standout feature, with the front-side view showcasing headlights and a front bumper that form the letter "H." To enhance the vehicle's road presence and align with current design trends, Hyundai incorporated a horizontal LED bar that connects the two H-shaped daytime-running lights (DRLs). This minimalist reshuffling of the traditional off-road LED light bar adds to the Santa Fe's unique look.

However, European customers will miss out on this updated front design due to safety concerns. According to Hyundai executives, the light bar did not perform well in Euro NCAP safety tests, leading the automaker to remove it entirely rather than reengineering it. Despite this omission, the Santa Fe will still maintain its rugged and masculine appearance, along with its interior practicality and new features. The H-shaped DRLs and imposing body will ensure the SUV stands out on European roads.

The slim light bar that was dropped in Europe has become a distinguishing feature for some legacy automakers' all-electric vehicles, setting them apart from gas or diesel-powered ones. While it remains uncertain if the all-new Santa Fe will eventually offer an EV drivetrain, a plug-in hybrid version will be available in most markets. Additionally, the 2024 Santa Fe will receive a slightly enhanced appearance for the American and Canadian markets.

Similar to the IIHS, Euro NCAP has updated its testing procedures, making it more challenging for vehicles to achieve a five-star safety rating. Automakers must now incorporate child presence detection systems, ensure electronically-operated windows and doors function properly when submerged, and include advanced autonomous emergency braking (AEB) systems that account for motorcyclists, pedestrians, and cyclists. These AEB systems must also be capable of preventing head-on collisions.

FutureCar Staff