Driving Experience of the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
The Korean company Hyundai first introduced its Santa Fe model in 2001, marking its entry into the competitive SUV market alongside models like Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail, Honda CR-V, and Mazda CX-5. As Hyundai aimed to reclaim its position in this vehicle category, we received an invitation from Hyundai Middle East and North Africa to cover the official launch of the much-anticipated fourth generation of the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe in Jordan.
Driving the Santa Fe
We traveled to Jordan, eager to experience the vehicle, as Hyundai claimed it would set a new standard for SUVs. After landing at Queen Alia Airport, we headed to the lowest point on earth to relax at the Mövenpick Hotel by the Dead Sea. The following day began with a press conference detailing the new Santa Fe and its features compared to the previous model, highlighting how it outperformed its competitors. Subsequently, we embarked on a 12-hour driving experience that included various terrains, reaching the Rose City of Petra and then heading towards southern Jordan, particularly Aqaba.
Exterior Design
The fourth generation of the Hyundai Santa Fe features a completely new design that transforms every aspect of its exterior. The front end has been redesigned to be more aggressive and eye-catching:
- The LED headlights have been lowered and separated from the daytime running lights.
- The front grille has been altered, significantly widening the front with increased chrome usage.
- The vehicle's length has been extended, complemented by larger windows.
- The shape and size of the rear lights have been redesigned for improved visibility.
Interior Design
Upon settling into the cabin, I immediately felt the comfort of the seats. Hyundai has succeeded in making everything within the driver's reach. The interior design features include:
- High-quality leather materials on the dashboard and doors.
- A stunning color contrast that enhances the luxury feel.
- Ample space for headroom and legroom.
- Multiple storage compartments and cup holders in the front and rear seats.
Technology and Safety Specifications
The 2019 Santa Fe comes equipped with a wide range of technology and safety features:
- An 8-inch entertainment screen with navigation and media capabilities.
- A 7-inch colored TFT central information display.
- A wireless charging pad utilizing inductive charging technology.
- A dual-zone climate control system and electronic parking brakes.
Regarding safety specifications, the fourth generation Santa Fe is equipped with the "Smart Sense" package, which includes:
- Blind-spot collision warning system.
- Pedestrian collision avoidance assistance.
- Rear cross-traffic alert when reversing.
- Lane keeping assist system.
- Rear passenger alert system.
- Speed limit information function.
Driving Performance
The African and Middle Eastern market versions of the new Santa Fe offer three engine options:
- A 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine.
- A 3.5-liter six-cylinder gasoline engine.
- A 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel engine.
The smaller engine is available with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the larger engine offers an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The vehicle comes with four driving modes: Normal, Eco, Smart, and Sport.
Final Thoughts
During my extensive experience with the 2019 Santa Fe, I was able to gain a comprehensive view of the vehicle. The exterior design is stunning and begins to rival the Mazda CX-5. The interior design is impressive, and the technological specifications and power of the vehicle truly amazed me.
Conclusion
At the end of our coverage of the official launch of the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe, we were invited to dinner by officials from Hyundai Middle East and North Africa. Conversations with the marketing director were fascinating, as I learned that the vehicle would soon be available in the UAE, starting at a price of AED 90,000. I believe that this new generation will bring Hyundai back to the forefront of this category.
I say to Hyundai: Well done!
Editor's Picks:
Review of the 2019 Hyundai Kona
Driving Experience: 2018 Mazda CX-5
See also:
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