2024 Hyundai Santa Fe's European Appearance

author: FutureCar Staff    

The Hyundai Palisade has been a popular choice for customers looking for a three-row SUV with minivan practicality and an improved ride height. However, Hyundai is now introducing the all-new Santa Fe, which offers a rugged-yet-refined option for those who want to venture off the beaten path. Despite being slightly smaller than the Palisade, the Santa Fe's redesigned look and competitive starting price make it a genuine rival to some luxury SUVs. If Hyundai can offer reasonable pricing and reliable powertrain options, the Santa Fe could be a massive success.

The 2024 Santa Fe is set to arrive in North America and Europe in 2024, with South Korea getting the first batch in September of this year. As we wait for pricing and drivetrain details for the North American market, it's worth noting that the European version of the SUV will have a different front design. The European model will not feature the bold horizontal LED light bar that connects the two H-shaped daytime-running lights (DRLs) seen on the North American version. This change was made due to the light bar not performing well in Euro NCAP safety tests.

Although Europeans won't get to experience the complete modernized front look of the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe, the SUV will still have a masculine and rugged appearance, along with practical interior features and new technologies. The H-shaped DRLs and imposing body will ensure that the Santa Fe remains distinctive on European roads. While the slim light bar has become a way for some automakers to differentiate their electric vehicles, there is no confirmation yet if the Santa Fe will have an all-electric drivetrain. However, a plug-in hybrid version will be available in most markets, including the United States and Canada.

In order to achieve the highest safety rating, automakers selling cars in Europe now need to meet stricter criteria. This includes installing child presence detection systems, ensuring easy operation of electronically-operated windows and doors in case of submergence, and incorporating advanced autonomous emergency braking (AEB) systems that can detect motorcyclists, pedestrians, and cyclists. The AEB system must also be capable of preventing head-on collisions.

FutureCar Staff