There are countless ways to envision a media car test drive: challenging drives that require skill and experience to navigate, brain-teasing fuel-saving “games”, or comparative analyses based on data. However, Hyundai took a very different approach when designing the Hyundai Santa Fe driving experience: The Five Palaces of Emotion journey, focusing on the participants’ sensations and unveiling novel emotional aspects.
I had the opportunity to join the second journey of the Five Palaces of Emotion, titled “Cung Thương,” along with six colleagues, two customers, and two KOLs, as we traveled from Da Lat to Buon Ma Thuot in the Hyundai Santa Fe. This was not just a simple car test drive; the Santa Fe was not the main subject to be dissected in terms of design, equipment, and operation. Instead, it played the role of a silent yet indispensable companion, sharing every joyful and emotional moment throughout the lengthy journey.
Da Lat – The Dreamy City and Its “Tiring” Roads
Our journey began in Da Lat, a city that perfectly sets the tone for the “Cung Thương” melody with its colors and romantic atmosphere, evoking feelings of love amidst the cold fog and familiar streets.
The four of us, along with our four suitcases and other personal belongings and work equipment, comfortably fit in the spacious Santa Fe. At first glance, the Hyundai Santa Fe impressed with its robust design, a significant departure from previous generations. The ample interior space was a big plus for our long trip with beloved colleagues. The seats were arranged logically, featuring premium materials, a separate air conditioning system, a panoramic sunroof, and a central entertainment screen, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable journey.
The excellent sound insulation ensured uninterrupted conversations, even when navigating through bumpy mountain passes or sudden showers that swept through the misty mountain city.
At Twin Beans Farm, we were immersed in a world of aromas and flavors, sensations, and melodies. The scent of trees and damp soil in the Da Lat rain filled the air. We smelled coffee beans roasting on a hot pan and savored the bitter-sweet taste of freshly roasted, ground, and brewed coffee, enjoyed right on the spot.
Next, we experienced the fragrance of candles that we crafted ourselves, selecting our desired scents. We indulged in these scents and flavors in the company of dear colleagues and new friends.
As night fell in the vast pine forest, we lit the candles we had made. The soft yellow light blended with the sound of acoustic guitar echoing in the stillness. I sat there, listening to the gentle melodies, feeling a sense of calm wash over me. Da Lat, with its romantic beauty and fresh air, brought me a rare sense of peace, as if all the worries of life had faded away.
The Da Lat to Buon Ma Thuot Journey – A 200km Challenging Mountain Pass
Leaving Da Lat, we embarked on a nearly 200km journey to Buon Ma Thuot. The Chuoi Pass lay ahead, with its sharp curves, potholes, and a light rain that made the road slippery.
Sitting behind the wheel, I felt the certainty of the Santa Fe’s frame. The version I drove had a 2.5L naturally aspirated engine with 194 horsepower, which was powerful enough, combined with the HTRAC all-wheel drive system, to smoothly overcome the challenging sections. Every time I turned a corner, I felt a sense of ease as the Santa Fe always provided an absolute sense of safety. Even when the rain reduced visibility, the car’s intelligent LED lights illuminated the way clearly, like a silent companion guiding us.
The scenery along the way was a vibrant painting of the Central Highlands. The endless stretches of pine forests, the sparkling streams in the sunlight, and the villages nestled in the hills captivated my gaze. I rolled down the window, letting the wind rush into the car, carrying the scent of the red basalt soil and the rustling of leaves. I felt a sense of freedom as if I were becoming one with the vast nature.
Buon Ma Thuot – The Soul of the Central Highlands in the Rhythm of Gongs and Drums
Our convoy arrived at Lak Lake, where two rare Kơ nia trees, symbols of the Central Highlands, stood tall like lighthouses in the sunset. We were greeted by two gentle and playful elephants, waving their trunks in welcome.
The people of the Central Highlands are sincere and peaceful. I had the pleasure of chatting with a Mnong ceramic artist. Her rough hands skillfully transformed coarse clay into exquisite vases, infusing her soul into each creation. Through her stories, I felt a deep connection to the land and traditions. In the evening, the sound of gongs and drums resonated, deep and majestic, telling stories of the red basalt land.
Hyundai Santa Fe – More Than Just a Car
To make the journey complete, it is worth mentioning how excellently the Santa Fe performed, allowing both the people and the car to immerse themselves in every moment. Our convoy included two versions of the Santa Fe: the 2.5 Turbo and the 2.5 naturally aspirated. While the 2.5 Turbo’s prowess is undeniable, the standard 2.5 version also delivered more than sufficient power. Moreover, the improved N3 global chassis and robust suspension system significantly enhanced confidence while driving. The steering feel was also authentic yet relaxing, providing a balance between sensing the outdoor environment and road conditions and maintaining a comfortable and effortless driving experience.
“Cung Thương” is not just a name. It awakened my love for nature through breathtaking landscapes and my love for people. Throughout the journey, the Hyundai Santa Fe was not just a means of transportation; it was a part of the story, a silent element that intensified the memories.
The Ultimate 7-Seater SUV Deals: Massive Savings in May 2025
The Vietnamese automotive market is experiencing an unusual wave of deep discounts and incentives in late May 2025, particularly in the 7-seater SUV segment.
SUV D-Segment Sales for April 2025: Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Struggles to Find Buyers
Mitsubishi might be hinting at a new version of the Pajero Sport with this latest move. This could be a strategic play by the automaker, suggesting that the older models have sold out and a new iteration is on the horizon.
Record Discounts on the Hyundai Santa Fe: Save Up to 200 Million VND at Dealerships
This is a strategic move to clear out the remaining inventory of the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe models.
Hyundai Santa Fe Discounted by Almost 200 Million VND, Now Priced Similar to Honda CR-V
Recent reports indicate that select Hyundai dealerships in Hanoi are offering significant discounts on the Santa Fe, with savings of up to 200 million VND.
The Early Race Wrap-Up: The Premium SUV Segment in Vietnam
In February, the Ford Everest dominated the market with sales figures that surpassed all of its competitors combined.
