After Facelifted Santa Fe, Grand Santa Fe is Next on Hyundai's Project List

MANILA : Looks like the South Korean car maker Hyundai is out on a mission to increase its customer base not only in its birth place but round the world. This is evident from its recent move, where it launched the facelifted version of Santa Fe exclusively in its native country. No pictures of the event have yet gone viral over the Internet, driving car-enthusiast all over the world insane. Controlling their anxiety are some spy pictures of the updated Grand Santa Fe, making their way from the company’s Germany test facility.

Hyundai has made every possible attempt to hide the identity of its new sport utility vehicle, but some things just can't be hidden, they pop out and speak for themselves. Same is the case with Grand Santa Fe, despite the heavy cover-up one can easily spot the new hexagon grille, housing Hyundai's logo at the center. Also, the re-styled headlamp and the new fog lamp case seems to complement one another. On to the rear end, the bumper and taillight along with its internal graphics are expected to have undergone some beautification, but it is the standard quadrilateral shaped exhaust pipes that steels the show. These changes hint towards a Tucson like design language, further increasing consumers’ expectation.

On to the interior front too we can expect some minor modifications like an updated information system and plusher looking cabin space. As far as the mechanical are concerned, the updated Grand Santa Fe will be built on steel chassis, giving it a stronger platform to stand on. Further anticipations point towards an e-AWD system that will replace the conventional prop shaft with the electric motor that will now power the rear wheels.

Engine specs are also expected to witness some changes, a 2.4-litre GDI, 2-litre turbo and 3.3-litre V6 can power this SUV in the European and US models. However, the ongoing 2.2L CRDI diesel engine mated with 6-speed automatic transmission will continue to feature in most European markets. But, both the power and torque will undergo incrementation, power will rise from 197 to 202 PS and torque will make a shift from 430 to 441 Nm.

Hyundai is also planning a technological up-gradation for Grand Santa Fe, as we'll hopefully see Hyundai's Blue Link remote app functioning in this model.

Seven airbags, electronic stability control, Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Automated Emergency Braking (AEB), High Beam Assist (HBA), Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC) are some safety amenities that we expect Hyundai will integrate in this improved SUV line-up.

Though, information regarding its launch is not available, but its near production look gives a cue that a world debut will soon be scheduled.

Image Courtesy : paultan.org