Driving the latest fifth generation Hyundai Sante Fe hybrid seven-seat SUV – a
totally different SUV to its predecessor – firstly in appearance and on first
impression its very much in the mould of a Land Rover, somewhat square edged
with a stronger presence and more interior room. This last aspect with an
enlarged tailgate gives it a rather tail happy appearance which drew some
negativity. As a family mover it offers generous interior room with ten airbags
over three seat rows and increased cargo space. Available initially as a 1.6-litre
turbo-petrol hybrid six-speed automatic, three grades, Base, Elite and Calligraphy
and depending on model, front or all-wheel-drive. I drove the well specified Elite
all-wheel drive now $2,000 dearer at $65,000 plus on-road costs. The hybrid
power train impressive, offering three levels of regenerative braking, and there’s
a number of drive modes available including terrain modes like snow, mud and
sand. The dash most impressive with a combined information display and
instrument cluster that’s first class. The cabin ambience most impressive.
There’s a big lift in technology, Hyundai adding over the air software capability to
keep you up with driver assist systems remotely without the need to visit a
dealer. Warranty five year/unlimited km. Drive details next. I’m David Berthon