The facelifted Hyundai fifth-generation Santa Fe has been spotted testing overseas, revealing extensive camouflage and several noticeable exterior design revisions.
The facelift is expected to replace the current dual-clutch transmission with a smoother torque-converter automatic gearbox.
Hyundai is preparing to update its fifth-generation Santa Fe with a major design refresh earlier than expected. The current generation was launched in 2023 and received mixed reactions due to its bold, boxy styling.
While some buyers appreciated its unique road presence, others found the design too unconventional. Recent spy shots of a camouflaged test mule suggest that Hyundai is working on a more premium and widely appealing design for the 2028 model year.
Refreshed Exterior Design Expected
The latest spy shots reveal several major exterior changes hidden under heavy camouflage. The 2028 Santa Fe appears to be receiving a major exterior redesign.
Key exterior changes spotted in the test model include:
Front Design: Hyundai appears to be replacing the current H-shaped lighting setup with a new split-headlamp design. The vertically placed DRLs sit around a slimmer grille, while the main headlights are positioned lower on a redesigned bumper.
Rear Design: The current low-mounted horizontal tail lights, which received mixed reactions, are expected to be replaced with vertically stacked LED tail lamps. A full-width light bar connecting the rear lights gives the SUV a more premium and balanced appearance.
Side Profile: The side design gets subtle updates with flatter horizontal body mouldings, helping reduce the SUV’s bulky look and creating a cleaner overall silhouette.
Powertrain Updates and Mechanical Changes
Along with the exterior updates, Hyundai is also expected to make mechanical improvements to address feedback from existing Santa Fe owners.
The biggest change could come with the 2.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, which is expected to replace the current 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) with a more torque-converter automatic gearbox. This change is aimed at improving low-speed driving comfort by reducing issues such as jerky movements, hesitation and inconsistent power delivery in city traffic.
Meanwhile, the hybrid (HEV) variants are expected to continue with their existing 6-speed automatic transmission, maintaining their smooth and efficient driving experience.
Expected Global Debut
The latest spy shots indicate that development is still in its early stages. Hyundai is expected to unveil the 2028 Santa Fe facelift globally closer to its scheduled launch.
Once introduced, the updated SUV will continue competing against premium three-row SUVs such as the Toyota Highlander, Kia Sorento, Mazda CX-90, Honda Pilot and Skoda Kodiaq in international markets.
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