Has this blog become the place to talk about my travels? After a recent trip to Vancouver Island to test drive the electric Hyundai Kona, here I am again in Western Canada to drive a model from the Korean company. This time, however, I had the chance to drive for the first time the fifth generation of one of Hyundai's flagship SUVs: the Santa Fe. Completely redesigned for the new model year, the new Santa Fe is a far cry from the image I had of a practical but somewhat dull vehicle.
A cubic but modern Santa Fe!
It's impossible to miss the Santa Fe's new silhouette, which is reminiscent of well-known SUVs such as the Land Rover Defender. Longer and wider than the previous-generation model, the vehicle now offers a third row as standard on all versions. Its angular look is a little controversial among purists, but in my opinion it ticks all the boxes for a good aesthetic update. More modern, visibly different and decidedly unique, one thing is certain: it surprises for better or worse.
Under the hood, there's nothing too earth-shattering, but a nice surprise nonetheless. The XRT and Ultimate Calligraphy versions we tested were equipped with a 2.5L engine capable of delivering 311 lb-ft of torque and 277 horsepower. For the class, this is perfectly acceptable, especially as one rarely buys a Santa Fe for its sporty performance. With a relatively supple suspension, pleasant steering and perfectly adequate stability, its only downside remains its fuel consumption of 10.6L/100km. In itself, that's not too bad, but since a hybrid model announced at 6.9L/100km is arriving this summer, I think I'd rather wait before buying a combustion Santa Fe.
More accessories, but at what price?
The interior has also been redesigned, with the addition of a 12.3" curved screen for the infotainment system and instrumentation. Also worthy of mention is the 6.6" screen used to control the ventilation system. I'd have preferred physical buttons, but at least the whole thing works. Compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as the new dual wireless charging zone at the front, were also particularly appreciated.
Comfort has clearly been enhanced, especially on the Ultimate Calligraphy version, which includes a relaxation mode for the driver and captain's seats. The addition that made most people smile, however, was undoubtedly the UV sterilization box near the glove compartment, which promises to kill 99% of germs in 10 minutes. I imagine, or at least hope, that this will come in handy for some. For such a vehicle, the base price remains rather affordable in its category: $42,999 including shipping and preparation costs. Of course, you'll have to add several thousand dollars to that in order to take advantage of all the optional features.
