What's the news?
This is the all-new, fourth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe - and it's our first clear look at the Korean company's SUV flagship, ahead of its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
The big, seven-seat Santa Fe is one of our favourite SUVs at any price and so the new one needs to build on that performance, in order to keep driving Hyundai into the premium marketplace. And, as you can see, inspiration for the styling clearly comes from the smaller Kona crossover - the new Santa Fe has twin headlights, a dominant 'Cascading Grille' and some bold plastic wheelarch detailing.
Externally, it's 70mm longer than the outgoing model, at 4,770mm all-in, while at 1,890mm, it's also 10mm wider. Hyundai states it has a 'longer wheelbase' than the Mk3's 2,700mm figure, although doesn't give a specific figure for the space between the Mk4's axles.
Hyundai further says it places great importance on customer well-being, so the interior design combines 'premium quality with a horizontal and roomy layout and enhanced visibility', as well as what the brand calls best-in-class safety features. Active driver assist systems under the 'SmartSense' banner will now include Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, which is a first on a Hyundai. This not only warns the driver of approaching traffic when reversing out of narrow side spaces and driveways, but it also applies the brakes automatically. Meanwhile, Safety Exit Assist prevents accidents when vehicles approach from behind by temporarily locking the doors, so that passengers should be able to exit the car safely.
Anything else?
More details on the all-new Hyundai Santa Fe will be released ahead of the Geneva Motor Show, when the car will be a key part of the Korean manufacturer's stand.