Hyundai Grand Santa Fe (Diesel)

The Hyundai Santa Fe is the brands largest and most expensive SUV in India, offering a 2.2-litre diesel engine that can be paired with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox. The SUV comes in both two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, with the top model featuring all-wheel drive. It boasts a powerful engine producing 194.3 bhp and a maximum torque of 436Nm. The Santa Fe is known for its spacious and comfortable cabin, seating seven passengers comfortably, and is loaded with features such as powered front seats, cruise control, air purifier, automatic climate control, and a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation. The vehicles design is boxy yet practical, making it easy to maneuver on Indian roads. With its strong focus on comfort, features, and practicality, the Santa Fe is an attractive option for those seeking a premium family SUV.

The Hyundai Santa Fe, particularly the diesel variant, is a compelling option in the premium SUV segment in India. It stands out for its comfortable and feature-rich cabin, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a luxurious and spacious vehicle. The Santa Fes 2.2-litre diesel engine, available with both manual and automatic transmissions, offers a good balance of power and refinement. However, it may not be the best choice for those prioritizing high-performance driving, as it is more geared towards providing a relaxed and comfortable driving experience. The vehicles ride quality is commendable, absorbing most road irregularities with ease, although it can feel a bit cumbersome in tighter corners. Overall, the Santa Fe is a solid option for families or individuals looking for a premium, seven-seater SUV with ample features and a comfortable ride.

The upcoming Hyundai Santa Fe is likely to feature advanced technology, including a twin-screen dash and a range of digitally accessed controls. This modernization will make the vehicle more appealing to tech-savvy buyers in India who are looking for a premium driving experience. I believe these tech upgrades will make the Santa Fe a strong contender in the Indian SUV market.

Hyundais decision to move away from diesel engines in the Santa Fe reflects a global trend towards electrification. While this might be a loss for some fans of diesel power, it aligns with Indias push towards cleaner and more sustainable transportation options. I think this shift is necessary for the future of automotive technology.

Hyundai has emphasized the importance of safety in the new Santa Fe, with the inclusion of updated safety features and modern design elements. The new model is expected to have the latest safety systems, which will be a significant selling point in the Indian market where safety is a top priority. I believe this focus on safety will be well-received by Indian buyers.

The new Hyundai Santa Fe is expected to have a more spacious interior, with increased third-row headroom and a larger tailgate opening. This will make it more practical for Indian families who often need ample space for passengers and luggage. I think this added space will be a major selling point.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the current Hyundai Santa Fe Active Diesel AWD offers impressive numbers, with a claimed fuel economy of 6.1 litres per 100km. This makes it a great option for those looking to save on fuel costs, especially considering its real-world performance of around 7.7 litres per 100km. I believe this is one of the standout features of the current model.

The Hyundai Santa Fe in India is priced in the premium segment, with the diesel variants ranging from Rs. 28.32 lakh to Rs. 31.74 lakh (ex-showroom). When considering on-road prices, you can expect to add another Rs. 3-4 lakh, depending on the state and local taxes, bringing the total to around Rs. 31-36 lakh. This pricing positions the Santa Fe competitively against other premium SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour. However, it is important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary based on the specific variant and location. Given its extensive list of features, including two-zone climate control, leather upholstery, and a touchscreen infotainment system, the Santa Fe offers good value for money in its segment.

The mileage of the Hyundai Santa Fe diesel variant is quite respectable, with the manual transmission offering up to 14.74 kmpl and the automatic transmission providing up to 13.01 kmpl, according to ARAI figures. This makes it a relatively fuel-efficient option in the premium SUV segment, which is crucial for managing running costs. For users concerned about mileage, the manual diesel variant is the more economical choice, but the automatic variant still offers decent fuel efficiency.