Hyundai Motors, the South Korean auto maker, is planning to launch a new generation model of its Santa Fe Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), which is expected to sparkle at the Indian showrooms in mid 2013. Reportedly, the third generation model will feature fluidic design, which has carved a niche in the hearts of Indian buyers.
Hyundai to introduce new generation model of Santa Fe somewhere in mid 2013
The auto maker is working hard to introduce the new model of Santa Fe soon in the Indian auto market as the existing model, which has been priced between Rs. 23 lacs and Rs. 26 lacs, has not done fairly well till now. This third generation model will be latest Hyundai car to adopt the ‘Fluidic Structure’ designing language with a blend of its own design dialect, called ‘Storm Edge’. Owing to this, industry experts believe that the new model will be surely more attractive against the current model.
In the international markets, the auto maker has offered two versions of new Santa Fe, namely a five and seven seater models; however nothing is confirmed for the Indian market. Reviewing the current model, experts had said that the Santa Fe in India lacks ample space for head as well as knee room at rear rows and thus, Hyundai has made several alterations in this area at the time of designing the new model.
Coming to the technical part, it is believed that the new model will feature a 2.2 litre diesel engine, which has been assimilated in the current generation model; however several improvements have been made in the same. The maximum power generated by the engine of this new generation car is expected to stand at 194 bhp with a peak torque of 420 Nm.
In order to provide a wonderful driving experience to its occupants, the company has equipped independent suspension systems within the new model, which functions on a new sub-frame that provides extra insulation from the road. These two credentials are anticipated to maintain a decent balance between an ideal drive and impressive handling. Interestingly, the body shell of new generation Santa Fe has been designed from the same technology used in the European market i40 model, which has also received the EuroCarBody title in 2011. Besides, features like navigation system, tyre pressure monitoring and self parking system are some of the features expected within the upcoming Santa Fe.
Auto analysts believe that the model from Hyundai will deliver a stiff competition to Renault Koleos and the revamped Chevrolet Captiva. The Fluidic Santa Fe is expected to be offered with a price tag of Rs. 23 lacs to Rs. 25 lacs, which could take the company’s success to a new level in the SUV segment.
