The Hyundai Santa Fe has long been a cornerstone of the South Korean automaker’s SUV lineup. However, the fifth-generation model, introduced in 2023, fell short of expectations.
Despite its boxy, trend-aligned design, the Santa Fe sparked debates over its rear end and dual-clutch transmission, leading to a sales decline even in its home market of South Korea. Competitors like the Kia Sorento, Kia Carnival, and its sibling, the Palisade, consistently outperformed it.
Recently, the first prototype of the Santa Fe’s mid-cycle facelift was spotted in South Korea, signaling Hyundai’s responsiveness to market feedback.
Hyundai Santa Fe facelift prototype testing in South Korea.
The facelift promises significant design changes, making the Santa Fe sleeker and more modern, aligning it with the new-generation Hyundai Tucson’s aesthetic.
Based on leaked prototype images, South Korean media predicts this will be one of Hyundai’s boldest mid-cycle upgrades.
The vehicle is expected to adopt Hyundai’s new “Art of Steel” design language. Notable changes may include slender headlights with vertical positioning lights, a sleeker four-slat grille, and a more streamlined body with horizontal accents to enhance its width.
Most notably, the rear features vertical taillights with a horizontal brake light strip. The license plate moves to the tailgate, complemented by glossy black trim for contrast.
A graphic rendering predicting the Hyundai Santa Fe facelift design.
Overall, the new Santa Fe will shed its boxy look for a more aerodynamic profile, exuding a premium feel akin to the new-generation Palisade. These facelift changes are expected to reignite customer interest.
Alongside design enhancements, Hyundai confirms a major technical shift: all 2.5L turbocharged versions will replace the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission with a torque converter automatic gearbox.
This addresses low-speed jerkiness and smoother gear shifts. Meanwhile, the hybrid variant retains its 1.6L turbocharged engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe facelift is slated for a late 2026 or early 2027 debut. Its redesigned aesthetics and improved transmission are pivotal in competing within the fiercely contested midsize SUV segment.
Hyundai Car Prices Slashed for Ghost Month: Palisade Hits Rock Bottom, Accent Drops Below 400 Million VND
Hyundai dealers are offering an incredible opportunity with their latest promotions. On top of the already impressive manufacturer discounts of up to VND 200 million, these dealers are going the extra mile by providing additional price reductions. This makes the effective selling price of many popular Hyundai models drop to the most competitive levels in their respective segments.
The Ultimate Guide to SUV Deals: Unlocking the Best Discounts on Vietnam’s Favorite Ride
The most sought-after SUVs in the Vietnamese market are now more affordable than ever, with price reductions ranging from tens to hundreds of millions of dong.
The High-Riding Vehicles Above VND 1 Billion Mark: Ford Everest Dominates, Hyundai Santa Fe Makes a Strong Case
The Hyundai Santa Fe, with its recent upgrades, has emerged as a formidable rival to the Ford Everest in this segment.
The Ultimate Hyundai Santa Fe: Unveiling the 2024 Model with a Twist.
The discontinuation of the diesel engine option for the Hyundai Santa Fe has created a mild “frenzy” in the used car market.
The Hyundai Santa Fe Prestige: A Premium Offering at an Attractive Price Point.
The Hyundai Santa Fe Prestige trim is a force to be reckoned with, offering exceptional performance and a host of luxurious amenities that rival those of the top-tier model.
