The Hyundai Santa Fe has long been a favourite amongst Aussie families for its blend of space, practicality, and value. Well, buckle up folks, because the 2024 Santa Fe throws that formula into overdrive, offering a completely redesigned package that’s both stylish and packed with tech. But is it all sunshine and barbecues? Let’s dive in and take a closer look.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Spacious Interior: The Santa Fe boasts an adult-sized third-row, making it ideal for families or those who love road trips.
- 2.5T Engine: The new 2.5-liter turbocharged engine outshines the outgoing V6, delivering both power and efficiency.
- Bold New Design: Love it or hate it, the Santa Fe’s brash boxy shape stands out, with flared arches and distinctive colors.
Cons
- Controversial Rear Design: The rear end might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the rest of the car compensates.
- No Diesel Option (Yet): Hyundai has yet to confirm a diesel version, leaving us curious about future powertrain options.
How Much Does it Cost?
The official pricing for the 2024 Santa Fe is yet to be revealed, but experts predict a slight increase compared to the outgoing model. However, Hyundai has assured that it won’t encroach on the territory of its bigger sibling, the Palisade, which currently starts at around $66,800. So, expect the Santa Fe to land somewhere in the mid-$50,000 to low-$60,000 range (excluding on-road costs).
Features and Benefits: Geared Up for Adventure (and Comfort)
The new Santa Fe boasts a complete interior overhaul, featuring high-quality materials, a sleek and modern dashboard design, and ample passenger space across all three rows. Tech lovers will rejoice with the inclusion of a larger touchscreen infotainment system, a fully digital instrument cluster (on higher trims), and a plethora of driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning.
But it’s not all about bells and whistles. The 2024 Santa Fe retains its reputation for practicality. The cargo area offers ample space for luggage, and the second-row seats fold flat for maximum versatility.
Safety First: Peace of Mind on Every Drive
Hyundai has always prioritized safety in its vehicles, and the 2024 Santa Fe is no exception. It comes loaded with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. This comprehensive suite of technologies will give you and your family peace of mind on every adventure.
Next-Generation Adventure
Running Costs: Efficiency Reigns Supreme
While the final fuel economy figures are yet to be confirmed, the 2024 Santa Fe is expected to carry over the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol hybrid powertrain from the previous model. This combination offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making those weekend getaways less wallet-draining. Plus, Hyundai’s excellent warranty provides further peace of mind when it comes to maintenance costs.
Standing Out from the Crowd: How Does it Compare?
The Santa Fe‘s main competitors include the Toyota Kluger and the Mazda CX-8. While the Toyota offers a proven hybrid option, the Santa Fe’s design and tech features might give it a slight edge. The Mazda provides a more driver-focused experience, but the Santa Fe might win over families with its focus on space and comfort. Ultimately, the choice depends on your individual priorities.
Conclusion
A Bold Step Forward for Aussie Families
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe is a significant leap forward for this popular SUV. It boasts a stylish design, a comfortable and tech-laden interior, a focus on safety, and an efficient hybrid powertrain. While the price might nudge upwards, it’s likely to remain competitive within its class.
Rating: 8.5/10
The 2024 Santa Fe isn’t perfect – the lack of a diesel option might disappoint some, and the larger size might not suit everyone. However, for Aussie families seeking a stylish, feature-rich, and efficient SUV for their adventures, the Santa Fe is a compelling option that deserves a serious look.