The all-new Hyundai Santa Fe made its global debut in mid-2023, but Hyundai has already begun enhancing this mid-size SUV. Spy shots of the updated Hyundai Santa Fe on test drives confirm the ongoing upgrades.
The Santa Fe is rumored to undergo one of Hyundai’s most transformative mid-cycle updates in recent history. Spy images reveal the SUV adopting Hyundai’s latest “Art of Steel” design language, first introduced on the new-generation Hyundai NEXO.
Key exterior changes include a redesigned front fascia with slimmer headlights and vertical LED daytime running lights, replacing the current rugged aesthetic. The new grille features four sleek horizontal bars, creating a seamless look while distancing itself from Land Rover-inspired designs.
The side profile is smoother, with horizontal lines emphasizing width over bulk. The rear features vertical taillights connected by a horizontal light bar across the tailgate. The license plate has been repositioned lower for a more premium appearance. Matte black lower body cladding and glossy black accents balance ruggedness with sophistication.
Overall, the new Santa Fe will be less boxy, with a more aerodynamic design that elevates its premium appeal closer to the flagship Palisade SUV.
Inside, the updated Santa Fe features a new steering wheel and a larger central touchscreen. The SUV will debut the Pleos Connect infotainment system, developed by software brand Pleos. Built on Android Automotive OS, it offers a smartphone-like interface.
Spy shot of the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe’s interior.
Rendering of the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe’s interior.
The extensive changes in this mid-cycle update are unsurprising. The current Santa Fe’s angular, off-road-inspired design was intended to stand out in the crowded mid-size SUV segment. However, it alienated buyers favoring the refined aesthetics of rivals like the Kia Sorento and Toyota Highlander.
Santa Fe sales declined throughout early 2025, even after the hybrid variant’s launch. This update is critical for Hyundai to regain market share.
By modernizing the Santa Fe’s design, Hyundai aims to appeal to a broader audience, particularly young families and urban buyers seeking a stylish yet practical SUV.
Alongside exterior changes, Hyundai confirmed powertrain upgrades. All turbocharged 2.5L models will replace the controversial 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) with a smoother torque converter automatic. This decision follows years of customer complaints about low-speed jerkiness, rough shifting, and warranty issues.
The same improvement will apply to the Hyundai Santa Cruz pickup, which shares the Santa Fe’s powertrain. The hybrid variant retains its turbocharged 1.6L engine paired with a smooth 6-speed automatic.
The updated Hyundai Santa Fe is expected to launch in late 2026 or early 2027.
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