Get ready for a major transformation! The Hyundai Santa Fe, a vehicle that has sparked intense debates, is undergoing a significant facelift. But here's the twist: it's losing its most distinctive feature, and some might argue, its charm.
The fifth-generation Santa Fe, launched in 2024, boasted unique low-mounted tail-lights with a bone-shaped design. However, the latest spy footage reveals a more conventional approach. The new Santa Fe will sport vertical tail-lights, a move that might divide opinions among car enthusiasts.
The prototype also hints at vertical lighting elements at the front, potentially connected by a full-width light bar. These design changes are expected to bring the Santa Fe closer in appearance to its larger sibling, the Palisade. But will it be enough to boost sales and match the success of its corporate cousin, the Kia Sorento?
While the visual updates are significant, it's unclear if there will be any mechanical changes. Hyundai has a history of substantial mid-life updates, especially when sales fall short of expectations.
In Korea, Santa Fe sales dipped from 77,159 in 2024 to 57,889 in 2025. However, Australia saw a different story, with sales increasing by 16.2% in 2025, reaching 6264 units.
The updated Santa Fe is expected to be unveiled late in 2026 or early 2027. And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the design changes. The powertrain lineup might also see some shifts, with a move towards a more conventional automatic transmission for turbocharged variants.
So, will the new Santa Fe be a hit or miss? And what do you think about the design changes? Do they enhance or detract from the overall appeal? Let's discuss in the comments and share our thoughts on this controversial update!
