Discover the upcoming Hyundai Santa Fe facelift, featuring a sleek LED front, slimmer rear lights, and possible hybrid upgrades. Learn more now!
Less than five years after its launch, the latest generation of Hyundai’s midsize SUV, the Santa Fe, is gearing up for a mid‑cycle refresh. Spy shots from chilly Northern Europe reveal a bold new design language that could signal the end of the controversial H‑shaped daytime running lights and a host of other visual updates.
Front End: Sleeker, Simpler LED Signature
The most striking change is the removal of the H‑shaped daytime running light strip that has become a defining trait of the current model. In its place, Hyundai appears to be adopting thin, vertically oriented LED strips that double as turn signals. These streamlined lights sit lower on the fascia, tucked into a compact square housing beneath a re‑imagined grille.
Unlike the previous high‑mounted, wide‑spanning light cluster, the new layout gives the front end a sharper, more athletic silhouette. Early renders suggest the new grille may be larger—potentially stretching across the entire width of the bumper—echoing a design cue seen on the larger Palisade.
Rear End: Refined Tail Lights and a Narrower Hatch
At the back, the massive rear doors and the H‑shaped taillights that dominate the current Santa Fe are set to be replaced. Prototypes show ultra‑thin vertical LED strips mirroring the front’s styling, which could allow for a slimmer lift‑gate. A narrower opening would eliminate the need for the low‑mounted auxiliary light that currently sits on the hatch, potentially reducing manufacturing complexity and repair costs.
While the majority of the rear panel remains concealed, a subtle cover on the passenger side has sparked speculation about an electric‑ready version. It is more likely a charging port for the plug‑in hybrid (PHEV) variant already sold in Europe, rather than a dedicated pure‑electric model.
Powertrain Rumors: Hybrid and Extended‑Range Options
Beyond aesthetics, there are whispers that the facelift could bring new drivetrain technology to the Santa Fe lineup. Sources hint at the possibility of an Extended‑Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) system—effectively a hybrid that drives on electric power for most daily use, with a gasoline engine extending the range when needed. If true, this would be an unexpected move for a mid‑cycle refresh.
Interior Tweaks: Simpler Cockpit
Inside, test units shown in the United States feature a more angular steering wheel and a slightly smaller central touchscreen, replacing the dual‑large‑screen setup found on the current model. The changes suggest a move toward a cleaner, more driver‑focused cabin.
Launch Timeline
Hyundai is expected to officially unveil the refreshed Santa Fe later this year or early next year, with production slated to begin around 2027 for global markets.
What It Means for Buyers
The upcoming facelift signals Hyundai’s intent to keep the Santa Fe competitive in a crowded midsize SUV segment, offering a fresher look, potential hybrid efficiency, and a more refined driving experience. Keep an eye on official announcements for final specifications and pricing.