Hyundai has released first images of the new fourth-generation 2018 Santa Fe, which will be available for booking in its home market of South Korea starting tomorrow. The SUV gets an all-new look as well as a range of infotainment and safety technologies.
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The design features dual-tier headlights with slim upper daytime running lights and larger main lighting units lower down. There’s also the cascading grille that is fast becoming a Hyundai signature, along with prominent squared-off wheel arches and a strong shoulder line that stretches across the full length of the vehicle.
Inside there is a three-tier dashboard – the freestanding infotainment display sits up top, followed by the slim air vents in the middle and the rest of the switchgear down below. Hyundai says the cabin uses high-quality materials and colours, and prioritises customer convenience.
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In terms of technology, the Santa Fe will be offered with BlueLink 2.0 which provides telematics services such as remote start, security and vehicle management functions, and real-time navigation guidance via smartphone connectivity. There’s also a song identification feature, developed in conjunction with SoundHound.
Additionally, a new server-based voice recognition system incorporates artificial intelligence technology from Korean tech company Kakao to improve functionality and accuracy. This enables the system to recognise more natural speech patterns, such as when asking for route guidance to a specific location.
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On the safety front, the Santa Fe will come as standard in Korea with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Driver Attention Warning (DAW) and High Beam Assist (HBA). There are also a number of other technologies that are either a world first, or a first for the Hyundai Motor Group.
Engine choices include a 2.0 litre turbo petrol and 2.0 & 2.2 litre turbodiesels, although no output figures have been released just yet. An eight-speed automatic transmission and Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel drive system are standard across the range.
From Paultan
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
