Hyundai Santa Fe 2019 launched in Jordan
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2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Review: Setting New Standards in the SUV Class
Introduction
When Hyundai launched the Santa Fe back in 2001, it became the first SUV from the Korean brand, competing with the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Nissan X-Trail, and Toyota RAV-4. An important segment for the brand, Hyundai aimed to make a significant impact once again. Thus, when the opportunity to attend the Middle Eastern launch of the all-new Santa Fe 2019 came up in my inbox, I eagerly accepted.
Media colleagues and I traveled to Jordan, excited to experience the all-new model. After all, Hyundai refers to the 2019 Santa Fe as setting a new standard in its class, which we wanted to experience firsthand. The three-day excursion began at the Queen Alila Airport, leading us to the lowest point in the world, where we relaxed at the Movenpick Dead Sea.
The following day commenced with a detailed press conference outlining the new Santa Fe and its key differentiators from the previous model. The presentation also highlighted how the Santa Fe outperformed competitors in the same class, leading us to embark on a 12-hour journey from Petra to Aqaba.
Exterior Design
The fourth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe receives a major visual upgrade, appearing more aggressive than ever. Notable changes include:
- LED headlights repositioned lower and separated from the LED Daytime Running Lights above.
- A prominent grille adorned with a bold chrome strip that extends below the headlamp clusters.
- Increased vehicle length, evident in the size of the windows and the adoption of 19-inch alloy wheels.
Interior Comfort and Features
Inside the cabin, the Hyundai Santa Fe impresses with its comfort and accessibility. Key highlights include:
- Comfortable seats with easy-to-reach controls for the driver.
- Leather accents on the dashboard, door panels, and seats, enhancing its prestigious feel.
- Spacious interior with ample headroom and legroom for the driver and up to six passengers.
- Multiple cubby holes and cupholders available in all rows.
Specifications and Safety Features
The new Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a range of technological and safety features, including:
- 8-inch infotainment screen providing navigation, media, and connectivity options with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support.
- High-definition 7-inch TFT color display located between the dials in the instrument cluster.
- Wireless inductive charging pad (QI standard) to keep occupants' phones charged.
- Additional features such as a Head-Up display, dual-zone air conditioning, and electronic braking systems.
Safety is paramount in the Santa Fe 2019, which boasts the new SmartSense package featuring:
- Blind-Spot Alert
- Collision Warning
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian detection
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Rear Occupant Alert
- Safety Exit Assist
- Speed Limit Info function
Furthermore, the SUV includes six airbags throughout the cabin and a Rear Occupant Alert system that notifies drivers about potential unattended children in rear seats.
Driving Experience
The Middle Eastern versions of the all-new Hyundai Santa Fe offer a choice of two engines:
- 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 172 horsepower, paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox, available in front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive options.
- 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 280 horsepower through a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels.
Additionally, some markets may benefit from an all-new 2.2-liter turbo engine. To enhance the driving experience, the 2019 Santa Fe features four drive modes: Normal, Eco, Smart, and Sport, along with a locking differential for the rear wheels.
Verdict
After navigating through some of the toughest roads and terrains in Jordan, I confidently affirm that the new Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with everything one would expect and more. The design is striking and potentially the most appealing in its class, comparable to the Mazda CX-5. The onboard technology is impressive and among the first of its kind in the segment, while the power is robust and readily available when needed.
During discussions with members of the Hyundai Middle East team, it was revealed that the previous generation struggled against newer competitors, reducing its market share to just under 20%. With the new model, they are optimistic about reclaiming a larger share of the market, and after experiencing the Santa Fe firsthand, I am confident they will succeed. Well done, Hyundai!
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