Discover the Hyundai Santa Fe facelift with sleek LED lighting, a narrower tailgate, and new PHEV options. Stay ahead of the curve – read the full details now!
Less than a decade after its launch, the newest generation of the Hyundai Santa Fe is gearing up for a mid‑cycle refresh. Recent sightings of prototype units in the chilly Nordic region reveal a striking redesign that could reshape the midsize SUV’s visual language.
Front‑End Overhaul: Goodbye to the H‑Shaped Daytime Running Lights
One of the most eye‑catching changes is the removal of the signature H‑shaped daytime running light strip that has defined the current Santa Fe. Instead, Hyundai is adopting ultra‑thin vertical LED strips that double as turn signals. The new light signature runs straight up the front fascia, creating a more modern and aerodynamic look.
The main headlamp cluster has also been lowered and tucked into a compact square housing beneath the grille, a departure from the previous high‑mounted, wide‑spanning design. This repositioning gives the bonnet a cleaner silhouette while differentiating the Santa Fe from the larger Palisade, which retains a more traditional front end.
Grille Expansion and Chromed Accents
Early images suggest the refreshed grille could be wider—potentially stretching across almost the entire width of the vehicle. If realized, this would echo the previous generation’s chrome‑plated front, where a full‑width mesh lent the SUV a more premium presence.
Rear Redesign: Slimmer Tailgate and Refined Light Bars
At the back, Hyundai appears to be trimming down the massive rear door that currently runs nearly the full width of the body. The new design swaps the broad H‑shaped taillights for sleek, vertical LED light bars that echo the new front styling.
By narrowing the tailgate opening, the low‑mounted auxiliary lights that are currently required when the hatch is lifted could be eliminated. This simplification may lower production costs and ease future repairs.
Hidden Details Hint at Electrification
Although most of the rear panel remains concealed, a small access flap on the passenger side has sparked speculation. While some believe it might hint at an upcoming all‑electric version, it is more likely the charging port for the plug‑in hybrid (PHEV) variant already sold in Europe. Rumors are also circulating that the facelift could introduce an Extended‑Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) system—an unexpected move for a mid‑life upgrade.
Inside the Cabin: A More Focused Dashboard
Test mules displayed in the United States show a slightly squarer steering wheel and a reduced central infotainment screen. The current dual‑large‑screen layout appears to be replaced by a single, more compact display, emphasizing simplicity and driver focus.
Launch Timeline
Hyundai is expected to unveil the refreshed Santa Fe toward the end of this year or early next year, with production slated for a 2027 market launch.
- New vertical LED headlights and taillights
- Lowered headlamp cluster and wider grille
- Slimmer rear hatch for a cleaner look
- Potential PHEV and EREV powertrains
- Simplified interior with a single infotainment screen
Stay tuned for official specifications, pricing, and availability as Hyundai prepares to roll out the next chapter of the Santa Fe.