It’s been about six weeks, but our spy photographers once again caught Hyundai’s mid-size SUV, the Santa Fe, out for a Sunday drive. The Santa Fe is due for an update in 2010 and we have a great look at a prototype in the early stages of testing.
One of the most prominent changes we can see is the new grille clearly visible through the camouflage. This style of grille may be the new look for Hyundai SUVs as it appears very similar to the grille we’ve seen on the 2010 Hyundai Portico prototypes. A pair of new headlights is visible and it’s a safe bet that the front bumper and lower fascia will be redesigned as well.
In back a new set of very flashy taillights are easy to see. A redesigned bumper should also be in store, as well as a few other minor tweaks.
The Santa Fe is currently only offered with a 2.7L V6 or a 3.3L V6, but that will change for the 2010 model year. Hyundai announced last year the 2010 Santa Fe will be offered with the same 175 horsepower 2.4L four-cylinder that debuted in the 2009 Sonata — marking the first time the SUV will be available with a four-cylinder engine. It has also been rumored that Hyundai will drop the Santa Fe’s 2.7L engine in favor of a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder. Also look for Hyundai to drop the Santa Fe’s 3.3L in favor of its new 3.5L V6, producing at least 275 horsepower.
No official word when we might see the production 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe, but we suspect the freshened SUV will make an appearance before the end of the year.
07/06, 11:19 AM
posted by:
JakeK66
I still am amazed at variety of cars this 2.4L and 2.0T engines that power anything from the EVO X to the Caliber to this Santa Fe. It’s good they are getting rid of the 2.7L V-6. It sucks, I’m driving someones Sportage with it today and it’s a gas hog and slllooowwww.
07/06, 12:53 PM
posted by:
orangecones
A 2.0T 7-seat family hauler? Interesting concept and might not catch on with US buyers. Most “family-oriented” shoppers will look more favorably on a V6, well, at least until they see the MPG figures.