02/11/2025

Contributing Editor Keshy Dhillon / keshy@piston.my Editorial

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Bold, boxy & fast New Santa Fe stands out as a unique option in crowded SUV market BY TIMOTHY PRAKASH

THE Hyundai Santa Fe stands as one of Hyundai’s most iconic models and a corner stone of the brand’s SUV legacy. First introduced globally in the year 2000, it marked Hyundai’s official entry into the SUV segment, a bold move that set the stage for the company’s transformation into a serious global automotive contender. Over five generations, the Santa Fe has evolved from a modest family utility vehicle into a sophisticated, technology-laden SUV that competes confidently with premium rivals. In Malaysia, the Santa Fe has enjoyed a long and steady presence, resonating with buyers who value comfort, reliability, and practicality. It was first introduced locally in the early

2000s, and since then, each generation has brought significant advancements in safety, design, and powertrain options. The third and fourth generations, in par ticular, elevated the Santa Fe’s image from a rugged family SUV to a more refined and premium offering. Malaysian buyers were drawn to its com bination of powerful diesel engine, gener ous seven-seat capacity, and impressive safety credentials. Hyundai Motor Company has taken a major step in its expansion strategy with the establishment of Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY) and has taken the latest iteration of the Santa Fe even further upmarket – incor porating bold, boxy styling inspired by modern adventure vehicles, a luxurious interior, and cutting-edge hybrid and plug in hybrid powertrains that cater to the growing demand for efficiency and sustain ability. COMMANDING PRESENCE For those who are not aware of the exis tence of the current generation Santa Fe, you will definitely need to look twice and wonder what this abomination is. The latest iteration of the brand’s D/E segment SUV makes a commanding entrance with a striking, boxy silhouette and a host of modern enhancements. The redesigned exterior introduces a more upright and muscular profile. A wide stance, high-set bonnet and flared fenders lend it a rugged appeal, while sophisticated design elements such as the dark chrome finished grille, a hidden rear wiper, and the signature H-shaped LED lighting, give it a futuristic edge. With the right body colour, this SUV will

Boxy rear design.

1,949 liters when the second and third rows are folded flat.

21-inch matte black multi spoke alloys.