హ్యుందాయ్ Santa Fe 2WD AT

The Indian automobile market is flooded with back to back launches from several automobile companies. Hyundai is the latest to launch its facelifted version of Santa Fe luxury SUV in the country. This second largest automaker in the country has introduced the 2014 version of Santa Fe with numerous updates in terms of both interiors and exteriors. This SUV is available in three trim levels among which, Hyundai Santa Fe 2WD AT is the mid level variant. The company has improved the interiors of this vehicle and it is offering with three rows that can provide seating for seven passengers. Also the company is offering this vehicle with new set of features including Active Eco system that controls the activity of the engine and transmission along with the AC output. Powering this particular trim is the same old 2.2-litre diesel power plant that is coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission gearbox. This engine is capable of delivering 194.30Bhp of peak power, while delivering 420Nm of peak torque. This vehicle comes with improved exteriors, thanks to the new hexagonal shaped radiator grille, sleekly design headlight cluster and bumpers that gives an intimidating look to the front profile.

Exteriors:

The Hyundai Santa Fe 2WD AT trim is the mid level variant and it comes with set of refurbished cosmetics. The manufacturer has managed to give it a refreshed new look with the help of newly designed headlight cluster that comes equipped with xenon headlamps with LED positioning lights and side turn indicator. This headlight cluster flanks a redesigned radiator grille that comes fitted with three horizontally positioned louvres along with chrome plated company logo in the middle. The company has also improved the structure of the front bumper, which comes with a wide air dam along with powerful fog lamps with cornering functions. The rear profile of this SUV also gets the update thanks to the improved bumper and boot lid. What truly impressive about the rear profile is the striking taillight cluster design that is powered by high intensity LED lights and turn indicator . On the side profile, the company has fitted an aerodynamic design external mirrors that comes integrated with side blinkers. The overall look of the side profile is enhanced by the sturdy set of 18-inch diamond cut style alloy wheels.

Interiors:

The interior section of this premium has been done up quite well with black and beige color scheme. This eye-catching dual tone look is accentuated by the metallic inserts that are given on the door panels, central console and on the dashboard. The company is offering this luxury SUV with an impressive set of features, which includes an advanced touchscreen infotainment system that comes with a music player and supports USB, AUX-In and the Bluetooth connectivity. In addition to this, the company has incorporated a multi-functional steering wheel that has controls for audio and call connectivity. The seats inside the cabin are quite luxurious, thanks to the premium leather upholstery that makes the journey joyful. The cockpit is equipped with sports type seats wherein the driver seat comes with 12-way power adjustable function. Apart from these, you can also find some of the features including cup holders, glove box unit, accessory power socket , sun glass holder, vanity mirror, interior rear view mirror and number of other features.

Engine and Performance:

The company has equipped this Hyundai Santa Fe 2WD AT trim with a 4-cylinder, 2.2-litre, DOHC based diesel power plant that makes a total 2199cc displacement capacity . This engine is blessed with common rail direct fuel injection system, which will enable this motor to produce a maximum 194.30bhp at 3800rpm, which results in generating a peak torque of about 420Nm between 1800 to 2500rpm. The company has coupled this advanced engine with a 6-speed automatic H-Matic automatic transmission gearbox that delivers the torque output to the front wheels. This engine enables the vehicle to zoom towards a top speed of about 182 Kmph. On the other hand, it can accelerate towards 100 Kmph speed from a standstill in just 11.2 seconds, which is remarkable. The manufacturer claims that this refurbished version comes with an ability to give away a decent mileage of about 14.66 Kmpl, which his good considering its caliber.

Braking and Handling:

This particular mid range trim is blessed with a disc braking mechanism like any other high end SUV. The manufacturer has assembled the front wheels of this SUV with ventilated disc brakes and assembled the rear ones with solid disc brakes . This is further incorporated with an advanced anti lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution system along with brake assist function. On the other hand, the company blessed this McPherson Strut type of suspension system to the front axle and multi-link type of suspension to the rear axle.

Comfort Features:

This Hyundai Santa Fe 2WD AT is the mid level variant, but still it comes with a lengthy list of features like its top end trim. This particular trim comes with features such as an Active ECO System, smart key with push button start, cruise control system, sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors and many other such aspects. Apart from these, the company is also offering this vehicle with features including a fully automatic AC unit with dual zone control, AC vents for 2nd and 3rd row, rain sensing wipers , solar glass, 3rd row seats with 50:50 split folding, sun glass holder, rear center armrest with cup holders, and important features. Also there is an advanced touchscreen audio system installed to the dashboard that comes with an MP3 player and supports connectivity for USB/AUX-In and Bluetooth devices.

Safety features:

This mid level variant is blessed with improved safety and protective functions that ensures top rated protection to the passengers. The manufacturer is offering this trim with features such as dual front air bags, rear parking sensor, rear view camera, anti lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution system, brake assist system, flex steering, impact sensing door locks, speed sensing auto door lock , an engine immobilizer system, and many other such aspects.

Pros: Exteriors styling good, sophisticated safety and comfort features.

Cons: Fuel efficiency, price tag.