The All-New 2019 Hyundai Santa-Fe Is Finally Here - New 8-Speed Automatic Transmission

After much anticipation, the fourth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe finally made its global debut earlier today.

Available as a 5-seater and also a long wheelbase 7-seater, the 2019 Santa Fe does not only sport a fresh new design, but also comes with many new technologies which aim to add to versatility, safety, and practicality.

The 2019 Santa Fe line-up offers a choice of three powertrains – a 185 hp 2.4L inline four-cylinder GDI engine, a 232 hp 2.0L four-cylinder engine, and a 200 hp 2.2L CRDi turbodiesel engine. All engines are mated to a brand new eight-speed automatic transmission. 

The SUV also comes with Hyundai’s HTRAC All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system, which provides an electronic, variable-torque-split clutch with active torque control between the front and rear axles.

With three driving modes to choose from - Normal, Sport, and Smart, the system helps to provide optimum control in all weather conditions.

Adding to the whole package is the updated suspension of the 2019 Santa Fe. The biggest change sees the rear shock moved upright from an angled position, improving the ride and handling no matter the driving conditions.

In addition, there is an optional self-load-levelling suspension which provides the Santa Fe with a consistent ride height regardless of cargo or trailer tongue weight.

This allows Hyundai engineers to tune the rear suspension for comfort and avoid making it too firm for occasional trailer use.

On the exterior, the main highlight is the face of the new Santa Fe, which is highlighted by Hyundai’s ‘Cascading’ grille, and a ‘Composite’ Light design comprising LED Daytime Running Lights positioned on top of the LED headlights.

Complementing the new front end is a wide stance, a dynamic character line which goes all the way from the headlights to the taillights, a larger daylight opening (DLO) with a satin surround, diamond-cut 19-inch wheels, as well as a redesigned rear.

Inside, improvements include the infotainment display which has been tilted and positioned to reduce glare, window switches and grab handles which have been moved forward for more elbow room, smaller door pockets which translate to more legroom, repositioned cup holders, and a redesigned, more comfortable armrest.

Cabin space has been enhanced as well. With the second-row seats folded, leg room has been lengthened to be the best-in-class.

The hip-point for the second-row seats has been moved back and the floor has been lowered for even more comfort. Engineers also have incorporated one-touch folding second-row seats. 

While the list of infotainment and connectivity features includes:

• Hyundai’s latest AVN 5.0 navigation system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Standard 7-inch user interface
• Qi wireless charging pad compatible with Android and iOS devices
• 12-speaker Infinity stereo system
• Smart Speed-Dependent Volume Control
• 3-years of complimentary Blue Link services
• 8.5-inch Heads-Up Display

As far as safety is concerned, the new Santa Fe comes with:

• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (RCCW)
• Blind Spot Detection with Automatic Braking
• Rear Seat Occupant Alert
• Safe Exit Assist
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
• Lane Departure Warning

Having sold more than 1.5 million units so far, the new version of the Santa Fe, which is Hyundai’s best-selling SUV in markets like the U.S, is expected to arrive at showrooms in the third quarter of the year.