Hyundai chose last week’s AutoMobility expo in Los Angeles as the locale for introducing its new-generation Santa Fe, its big three-row SUV, which is an entirely reengineered vehicle on a longer platform than its strong-selling predecessor. Its wheelbase stretched to 110.8 inches, the new-generation Santa Fe includes a plethora of new features, led by a dimensionally larger rear liftgate that opens onto a “terraced” rear cargo area. That, in turn, translates to a maximum of more than 50 square feet of room for goodies in the back.
Premium versions of the Santa Fe offer power-adjustable captain’s chairs for the second seating row, just a hint of the appointments that Hyundai has incorporated into the new SUV. Available accessorization, depending on model, includes dual, wireless charging systems for smartphones, Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard equipment, plus a USB-C terminal with a maximum charging rate of 27 watts and a third-row USB port also available. In addition, a UV-C sterilization compartment is available for the top of the Santa Fe’s glove compartment, providing ultraviolet light-based sterilization of items such as cell phones, wallets, and glasses. A Bose 12-speaker premium sound system is also available. Standard ICE power is a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with direct injection, producing 277 horsepower, and mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Jim Donnelly On Wheels 