Santa Fe is getting bigger with room for all the family

KOREAN developer Hyundai staged a world premiere of the production version of its three-row, six/seven-passenger Santa Fe at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

By adding the new variant, Hyundai said it aims to deliver its Modern Premium values to more family-oriented customers.

Based on the two-row, five-passenger Santa Fe, the six/seven-passenger Santa Fe adds a third row of seats to meet the needs of customers seeking more space.

In addition, Hyundai’s new thinking widens customers’ choices by allowing them to choose two separated seats in the second row, a rare option in its segment.

Santa Fe customers worldwide will now have a choice between five, six and seven-seat models.

The new version, also known as the Long Wheelbase (LWB) Santa Fe, rides on a 2,800mm wheelbase, which is 100mm longer than the five-seater. The model will go on sale at a starting price of €18,700.

The longer wheelbase and efficient interior design offers more cabin room than major competitors, providing maximum comfort for family-oriented customers. Seating utility is also improved, due to a standard 40:20:40 folding rear seat back.

The exterior design of the new version is also bolder and more voluminous. Its hexagonal radiator grille is wider with an additional bar, while the front fog lamps, separated from the bumper, are larger.

The signature differentiating element between the five-seater and the six/seven-seater is the side view daylight opening. The larger Santa Fe features a shape that highlights the increased passenger and cargo room behind the third-row seat. The 18-inch alloy wheels, dual muffler and rear combination lamps complete a distinguished look.

The LWB Santa Fe boasts a more powerful performance as well. It is equipped with the 3.3 litre Lambda GDI engine, delivering a maximum output of 294ps.