Sports and Crossover Utility Vehicles (SUVs) have taken over the automotive market for around a decade now, and it is no wonder we come across a new version or model globally every few months. Three-row SUVs are also trendy internationally and have a decent market share. Although some models came into being very recently, many have ruled the market for decades and this blog we are going to talk about such car, a locally assembled Hyundai Santa Fe.  Santa Fe is a city in New Mexico, a State in the United States, and one of the most important nameplates for Hyundai. The model first gen went into production in the year 2000, and since then, it has been a success for the brand. In fact, Santa FE is the first-ever sports utility vehicle for Hyundai, and since its inception, it hit almost 5.3 million in global sales. The Santa FE first generation was in a compact segment category, but over the years, it grew in size and now targets the mid-size segment and, depending upon the market, is available in a 3-row -7 seat option besides a standard 2-row -5 seat version. Hyundai Global recently introduced an all-new 5th-generation model, which will be available for sale in North America, Korea, and Europe later this year. Hyundai Pakistan also offered a 3-row model, "Santa Fe," but in the form of CBU/ Imported units back in 2019, but at a sale price of almost Rs. 20 million, it was a hard sell. The CBU was also a pre-facelift model. Back in August, we shared news related to the arrival of Santa FE in Pakistan, and later, we confirmed that a 4th generation model, a facelifted version, will be introduced in Pakistan, and the launch is scheduled for October 1, 2023. Expected Variants  As per available information, Hyundai will offer Santa FE in two versions for the Pakistani market: an AWD and an FWD. As in typical fashion, these will also define the number of features each variant will get and AWD will be more featured.  We are unsure of any specific naming scheme for these variants, but these might be EX & LS. This article will outline the possible features of the upcoming PKDM/ Pakistan Domestic Model of Santa Fe. I will share photos of overseas model to understand these details better. Dimensions The 4th generation, with chassis code "TM," went into production in 2018 and got a major facelift in 2020. Although the facelift included major welcoming exterior and interior updates, there was more to that. Normally, a facelift includes updates in aesthetics and other minor improvements, but in the case of Santa Fe, the entire platform was replaced with N3. This resulted in an all-new, much-improved driving dynamics besides better interior space and safety. As for fuel tank capacity, it stands at 67 liters, similar to the PKDM model. Santa FE has cargo volume of 130 liters with all 3 row of seats up ; it becomes 571 liters with 3rd row down while 1649 liters when both 2nd and 3rd seats are folded down as per VDA standard. In the Hyundai model Portfolio, Santa FE slots between larger Palisade and compact Tucson. It is pertinent to mention that although the Santa is a 3-row model with either 6 or 7-seat configuration, a North American model for this generation was offered only with 2-row and 5 seats. Exterior The facelift model of Santa Fe, which we will also welcome soon in Pakistan, got a major makeover on the front, and the design came from the Hyundai design studio in Germany. The new face gives it a more modern and luxurious look, and as per Hyundai, it followed the brand's "Sensuous Sportiness" design philosophy. The model got a new cascading wide chrome grill with new headlights integrated into the grill & this provides a wider and sporty character. There will be T-shaped LED DRLs, which also get the sequential turn signal, which changes the upper portion of the DRL into amber. Depending on variants, there can be dual projector or dual reflector headlights. In the case of dual projectors, one each is for high or low beam side by side, but then the model also gets slim sub-low beam LED for improved lighting on the front. Depending on the variant, the overseas model also gets puddle lights inside mirrors and courtesy lights in front door handles, and I hope we will see the same in our local model but as of now, there is no confirmation.  [gallery columns="9" bgs_gallery_type="slider" ids="181520,181448,181446,181452,181454,181450,181518,181522,181524"] The PKDM version will come equipped with aero-type alloys and are 235/55 R19 and possibly with imported tires. Roof rails will be available, while chrome garnish around the windows will be in typical fashion. Unlike the overseas model, where the rear side and back screen get a privacy screen, we would not get that option. On the rear, LED taillights will be standard, with an LED high-mount stop lamp and a rear screen wiper. Overall, the exterior is modern and appealing, although it's now a model that will be phased out in the international market. Interior Expected Features Although the upcoming Santa Fe will soon be discontinued as a global model, the interior will not cry old, and it is still a high-tech space, even with a 3 -5-year-old design. There is a new center console that holds several buttons to control HVAC, media, and other functions. There will be a shift-by-wire transmission similar to the Hyundai Sonata, providing ample storage space underneath it. The expected features in the locally assembled Hyundai Santa Fe:  A 12.3-inch TFT color driver display (something like Sonata) with a digital trip computer and digital speedometer. The heads-up display is again similar to what we already seen on the locally assembled Sonata. Floating 8-inch Infotainment display with capability of wireless Apple Car-Play & Android Auto. This will be an imported Hyundai head-unit & not by a local supplier. 10 Speaker Harman Kardon surround sound system. This will be on AWD variant only. Wireless charger. A quiet mode limits the speaker volume for a quieter cabin and concentrates for front seats when activated. Passenger talk system, in which the driver's voice can be communicated through the rear speaker for easy conversation with rear seat passengers. Confirmation of this feature is awaited.  Seat walk-in switch on the front passenger seat, which the rear passenger or driver can use to move or recline the front passenger seat. Panoramic Roof. Heated and Ventilated Seats along with a heated steering wheel. 12-way driver and 8-way power passenger seat. The driver seat also has a 2-way memory seat function. 2+3+2 seating configuration with full folding second and third rows. The second-row folding can be performed by pushing a button in the cargo area. [gallery columns="9" size="publisher-lg" bgs_gallery_type="slider" ids="181470,181499,181466,181462,181460,181464,181315,181501,181503"] Dual-zone climate control with 2nd-row vents while the third row also will get vents with a fan speed controller. FWD might not get 3rd row ventilation. USB charging ports in front, second, and third rows. Auto folding, power, and heated side view mirror with the auto-dimming rearview mirror. Rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlights. Auto activation of the rear wiper on reverse when Rain is detected. Remote engine start, push-button start, and keyless entry. Steering wheel control for the infotainment screen and connected smartphone + cruise control. Leather seating upholstery. The 12Volt battery is under a cover in the cargo area behind the third row, while the full-size spare wheel is mounted underneath the cargo space outside the chassis area. Power tailgate. [gallery columns="9" size="publisher-lg" bgs_gallery_type="slider" ids="181477,181491,181479,181497,181483,181495,181485,181489,181493"] Mechanicals  The 4th gen Santa FE facelift is available in multiple configurations, but we would witness a GF4 Gamma/1.6L Turbo GDI hybrid engine in Pakistan as the sole version. The HEV/ Hybrid uses a 59hp electric motor integrated into the transmission/ TMED (Transmission Mounted Electric Device). The 1.6L Turbo is a CVVD (Continuously Variable Valve Duration) engine that delivers 177hp, in combination with an electric motor, producing a combined 226hp 350Nm of torque. There is a space-saving 270 Volt 1.49kWh lithium-ion battery under the driver seat. The CVVD is Hyundai's new technology & the world's first such implementation, continuously monitoring the engine load, speed and automatically increasing or decreasing the intake valve timing for optimal and improved engine performance and efficiency while reducing emissions. [gallery columns="4" size="publisher-lg" bgs_gallery_type="slider" ids="180003,179997,179999,180001"]   The electric motor moves the vehicle when starting or driving at low speeds, provided the battery has enough charge. The engine and motor work together for maximum performance while acceleration or driving uphill .  At cruising/ constant speeds, the power is provided either by the engine or motor. The regenerative braking systems act when brakes are applied or when driving downhill; the motor works as a generator; energy produced by the motor charges the lithium-ion battery. Driving Modes Santa Fe has ABS brakes (ventilated on front and solid on rear) on all 4 wheels with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist function. There is rack-mounted tilt & telescopic motor-driven power steering with a turning radius of 18.7 feet—a MacPherson strut front while multilink rear suspension. The hybrid models use a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters. There will be electronic parking brake auto brake hold features as well. [gallery columns="7" size="publisher-lg" bgs_gallery_type="slider" ids="181516,181430,181438,181440,181432,181434,181436"] Hyundai HTRAC system, which is basically the AWD, will be available in locally assembled Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid. Also, it has multiple drive modes, which you can select using a rotary dial, and adjusts the power delivery between front and rear axles. Under Drive mode select, there is Smart, Eco (100% front, 0% rear) and Sport (50% front, 50% rear) function. The smart automatically adjusts between Eco & Sport to deliver optimal performance depending on driving style and road conditions. When switched to Terrain mode ( for AWD variant only), the driver can select between Snow, Mud, or Sand. The respective Terrain Mode automatically transfers the required torque between the front and rear wheels for maximum traction. Please be aware that AWD features in most Crossovers, including Santa FE, do not necessarily mean they are off-road performers. AWD are for improved traction under certain road conditions, but these models are not designed for spirited hardcore off-road adventures. As per Australian fuel economy figures, the hybrid version has a combined [ city+ highway ] value of 6L per 100km, which means around 17 kilometers per liter for AWD. The same model is rated as 13.5km /liter on the US fuel economy cycle. These numbers are under test conditions and may and may not be achieved by the consumers. I hope Nishat will not put any specific fuel requirements for their model and keep it 91 Octane as seen in the overseas market, although we know that local blended fuel has questionable quality. Hyundai offered plugin variants in limited markets for Santa FE, but I don't expect that version in Pakistan as of now. As for the plugin Hybrid, it has a bigger lithium-ion battery under the rear seats and a more powerful motor with a combined output of 261hp. Due to the larger battery size, it can drive approximately 48 kilometers in pure EV mode. Overall Santa-Fe being a unibody D-segment Crossover Utility vehicle have a car like driving dynamics, much higher comfort , less road noise , easy to drive , sporty and well balanced character. Although Sanata Fe is a tall vehcile, it still has less body roll comapred to a typical SUV due to lower center of gravity & wider tracks. Expected Safety Features When the facelift model of Santa Fe shifted to the N3 platform, it improved its safety rating. The N3 platform also helped in achieving optimized weight balance and collision safety. Usually, locally assembled vehicles eliminate a lot of active and safety features in the name of cost-cutting, but we are expecting, with certainty, the following safety features on the upcoming locally assembled Hyundai Santa Fe: Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags. Brake Assist System/BAS along with Electronic Brake Distribution/ EBD. ABS. Vehicle Stability and Traction Control. Downhill Brake Control and Hill Start Assist. [gallery columns="2" size="publisher-lg" bgs_gallery_type="slider" ids="181442,181444"] Hyundai Smart Sense active safety ADAS feature includes blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control with stop & go ( not yet confirmed), lane keep assist, lane follow, radar and camera-based forward collision avoidance, high beam assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and more. Rear Occupant Alert detects passengers/ pets in rear seats, so you don't leave them behind in the car after locking. 360-degree camera system and Blind Spot View Monitor use a camera in the side view mirror and display the live video in the driver instrument cluster for the vehicle in the blind spot once the turn signal is activated. Front and rear parking sensors along with dynamic guideline wide angle rearview camera. Tire Pressure Monitoring System/TPMS. Safe Exit Assist. The radar detects the approaching vehicle from behind and locks the rear doors until the approaching vehicle has passed and the road is clear. Emergency Stop Signal activates the hazards automatically when the driver applies rapid braking to warn the following vehicles. Expected Pricing  The current auto policy, effective from 2021 to 2016, has provided incentives for hybrid and electric vehicles in the form of reduced duty/customs on the import of parts. Toyota wanted to win the race by introducing the first hybrid model in the country in the form of the Corolla Cross, but it failed as Haval had already revealed a locally assembled H6 hybrid. We are hearing that Honda Atlas is working on a hybrid version of HR-V, but we currently have locally assembled Hyundai Santa Fe in the pipeline, and the official reveal is just a few days away. I am sure you will hear many statements with the word "FIRST" at the launch ceremony of the Santa FE. Like "First 7-seater Hybrid", first Turbo GDI from Hyundai Nishat, Wards-Auto, one of the world's top 10 awarded engines, the world's first CVVD, the first locally assembled with the world's best Harman Kardon sound system, first locally assembled with Memory seat function, many global awards winner and many more beside extensive appreciation for its styling and sporty character. Nishat will try to capitalize on these lines, and obviously, that's what every car company does at the launch of any model. Now, the next question would be the price of locally assembled Hyundai Santa Fe, and it's challenging to guess that when the dollar exchange rate is still very high, although it has receded in recent weeks. I am certain you will witness almost all the features you read here today in the Pakistan domestic model Santa Fe this coming Sunday, October 1, but I have a very limited idea about the sticker price. I hope it's not a sticker shock, although we have been hearing various rumors in this regard, like Rs. 13 to 14 million and, more recently, even Rs. 15 Million plus. We may see an introductory price at launch and then an increase in the near future, which is again typical for Hyundai Nishat. My Opinion Lastly, I suggest that Hyundai should not target and go close to Toyota Fortuner pricing, which currently starts at around Rs. 16 Million. I do agree that Fortuner is a less featured vehicle and overpriced, but a typical Fortuner buyer might not cross-shop Santa FE because of the stereotypical attention attached to Fortuner. Additionally, locally assembled Hyundai Santa Fe is not as capable as Fortuner if we talk about the off-road capabilities being body-on-frame characteristics. Hyundai Santa Fe will be an equipped vehicle compared to any other 3-row in the market, and with attractive pricing, it can be a success, although we do know that the buying power of people is at rock bottom as of now. Remember the well-featured Tiggo 8 Pro in the same segment, although hybrid is not an option, as well as AWD, although there might be a huge price difference with respect to Santa Fe. We can take Sorento from the equation as it's too old/bland and not as feature-rich, and the same goes for Oshan X7, which has "Chinese" associated with it and keep buyer skeptical. I also believe Hyundai's target buyers might not be typical customers but instead government agencies, and they will try to capture maximum contracts. They will market Hybrid government vehicles to save on fuel. With the current crisis of the economy and high-interest rates, car sales are already down, and unrealistic pricing will not help the sales graphs. As the 4th generation facelift model also utilized the same N3 chassis as Hyundai Sonata, there can be some cost recovery, keeping in mind its production will cease in overseas markets, and Hyundai Nishat might be able to get cheaper discontinued CKD kits and other related parts, beside assembly jigs and machinery probably dismantled in the outside world. Stay Tuned to Pakwheels' social Media; we will update you on this subject. Meanwhile, Good Luck to Hyundai Nishat!  

There had been a strong rumor for quite some time that Hyundai Pakistan might introduce Santa Fe. We have covered a detailed report in this regard after locally assembled units were spotted somewhere in North Pakistan. We can confirm that a 4th generation model will be introduced in Pakistan, and the launch is scheduled for October 1st, 2023. We are not expecting a 5th generation because that model is not yet for sale outside Pakistan, and the arrival of it in our local market should not be expected either. Below, you can see a short video clip that was recorded by one of our followers when the locally assembled vehicle was spotted a few weeks ago. https://vimeo.com/856252520 For now, we don't have all the official details, photos, and specifications, but we will use some photos of an overseas model to explore the upcoming model. We will also briefly discuss the teaser images shared by Hyundai Nishat's Social media and will try to extract any information. Exterior of Hyundai Santa Fe Hyundai Nishat released a single teaser for the exterior with the message "Innovation Of Wheels," but it's too blurry to predict. We can guess there is LED lighting on the front. There will be a cascading wide grill with headlights integrated into the grill. This provides a wider and sporty character. There are T-shaped LED DRLs, while depending on variants, there can be dual projector high and low beams ( side by side) or dual stacked LED reflector headlights. The models with projector headlights also get the sequential turn signal, which changes the upper portion of DRL into amber. Although we don't know exactly which headlights we will see on our local model, there might be a dual LED reflector in one short video clip. In this case, a typical turn signal is next to the headlight housing. [gallery size="publisher-lg" bgs_gallery_type="slider" ids="179927,179935,179937"] The wheels on the spotted vehicle are aero-type alloys and are 235/55 R19. We don't know the brand of the tires, but we might be seeing an imported brand. Typical roof rails will be available, while chrome garnish around the windows will be standard. Unlike the overseas model, where the rear side and back screen get a privacy screen, we will not get that option. LED taillights will be standard on the rear, with an LED high-mount stop lamp and a rear screen wiper. Overall, the exterior will be modern and appealing, although it's now a model that will be phased out in the international market. Comparing this mode with its corporate cousin, the KIA Sorento, Santa FE looks more attractive and tempting, although this is very subjective. Interior Teasers  Hyundai Nishat released two teaser clips for the interior; one shows the dashboard layout, while the second teaser concentrates on the side view of the central console. The teasers confirm that we will witness customizable ambient lighting in the dashboard and the center console. The teaser also confirms some details regarding the infotainment screen. [gallery columns="2" size="publisher-lg" bgs_gallery_type="slider" ids="181300,181302"] In overseas markets, depending on the variant, an 8-inch or 10.25-inch infotainment screen is available with smartphone integration with Bluetooth capabilities. The 10.25-inch unit is a knob-free Harman Kardon premium system with 10 speakers + an external amplifier available on upper trim levels. We thought Pakistan might get a similar setup, but the teaser image reveals that it might be different. The Pakistan domestic model will have a standard 8-inch unit with a 6-speaker system. We can expect an Apple Carplay and Android Auto integration with steering wheel controls. [gallery columns="2" size="publisher-lg" bgs_gallery_type="slider" ids="181315,181313"] What Can We Expect? As for the rest of the interior, the facelift model, as we expect in Pakistan, gets a new and high-tech interior. A new floating center console holds several buttons to control HVAC, media, and other functions. The facelift model also receives a shift-by-wire transmission similar to the Hyundai Sonata; this provides a new design for the center console, creating ample storage space underneath it. We are unsure if we will carry over every feature as seen on the overseas model; depending on the variant, the overseas model comes equipped with heated and ventilated seats, a 10 or 14-way power driver seat with lumber support, and an 8-way power passenger seat. There is also a seat walk-in switch on the front passenger seat, which the rear passenger or driver can use to move or recline the front passenger seat. Regular typical leather or even Nappa leather is available. Dual-zone climate control with cabin air filter is available with air vents in 2nd row, while the third row also gets air vents with a fab blower for added air circulation. Power tailgate, rain-sensing wipers, power-retractable side view mirrors, and auto-dimming rearview mirror are additional features in our local model. [gallery columns="9" size="publisher-lg" bgs_gallery_type="slider" ids="179971,179945,179943,179953,179959,179979,179967,179985,179975"] The 2nd-row seats not only slide front and back but also can be reclined while these can be folded down with the press of the button from the cargo area. The third row is not ideal for an adult but can be used in emergencies, although it is a perfect space for small kids. LED map lights, vanity lights, and USB ports are standard across the cabin. I am sure we will see a panoramic roof, although the availability of a heads-up display is doubtful. Remember that the HUD on Santa Fe is colored and displays navigation beside speed. We might have no privacy screen option, but we can expect sunshades for the rear door roll-up window. The full-size spare is available, but it's mounted outside underneath the cargo space. I hope we checkmark most of the features seen on the international model in our domestic model. Engine of Hyundai Sant Fe Hyundai Nishat has not released any teaser for the engine compartment as of the writing of this article, but we have some confirmed information. The 4th gen Santa FE facelift is available in multiple configurations, which include conventional 178hp 2.5L MPI, 191hp 2.5L GDI, 227hp 2.0L Turbo GDI, 277hp, 2.5L Turbo GDI, 268hp 3.5L MPI engine. Santa Fe is also available in 2.2L diesel, but the more attractive version is 1.6L Turbo GDI hybrid and 1.6L Turbo GDI plugin hybrid. The HEV/ normal Hybrid uses a 59hp electric motor integrated into the transmission. The engine delivers 178hp, which, in combination with an electric motor, produces a combined 227hp 350Nm of torque. There is a space-saving 270 Volt 1.49kWh lithium-ion battery under the driver seat. The plugin hybrid has the same 178hp engine and, in combination with a 13.8 kWh battery pack & 90hp motor, produces a total of 261hp. [gallery size="publisher-lg" bgs_gallery_type="slider" ids="179999,179997,180003"] We can confirm that we are getting a normal hybrid version for sure, as a hybrid emblem was seen on one of the vehicles back in August 2023. It's early to say if Hyundai Pakistan will offer conventional gasoline engines, although technically, it's possible. Hyundai offered plugin variants in limited markets, so I don't expect that in Pakistan. However, it's not difficult to introduce, obviously with a much higher price than regular Hybrid. As per Australian fuel economy figures, the hybrid version has a combined [ city+ highway ] value of 6L per 100km, which means around 17 km per liter for AWD. The same model is rated as 13.5km /liter on the US fuel economy cycle. These numbers are under test conditions and may not be achieved by the consumers. Safety Hyundai Nishat hasn't yet released any safety-related teaser for the upcoming Santa Fe. When the facelift model of Santa Fe shifted to the N3 platform, it improved its safety rating; the overseas model comes standard with front, side, and curtain airbags beside Hill start assist, stability control, downhill assist, traction control and brake assist systems. N3 platform also provided the model with active safety features in the form of active safety features / ADAS, which includes blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, lane follow, radar and camera-based forward collision avoidance, high beam assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and more. The top-of-the-line models in the overseas model also get 360 views surrounding the monitor. The overseas top model also receives a Blind Spot monitor, which uses a camera in the side view mirror and displays the live video in the driver instrument cluster for the vehicle in the blind spot. I hope we see the same level of safety equipment on our domestic model Hyundai Santa FE, but these things are always doubtful as these come in cost-cutting, which is extremely concerning. After a close inspection of the model, we saw at Deosai that the model is missing the radar module behind a rectangular trim on the front lower portion of the bumper in the middle. The video clips are unclear, so we are unsure about it. If this is the case, we might only get a partial ADAS suite with some of its features. Dimensions of Hyundai Santa Fe As of footprint, the 4th gen Hyundai Santa Fe is 4785mm in length (L), 1900mm in width (W) & has a wheelbase of 2765mm(WB). The ground clearance stands at 176mm (GC) for overseas models. We may or may not have the same number. The fuel tank is 67 liters. I am sharing a snapshot of the other relevant 3-row models with available information for reference. Tiggo 8 ; 4722mm (L) , 1860mm(W) , 2710mm(WB) , 194mm(GC). Fuel tank of 51 liters. Oshan X7; 4730mm(L) , 1870mm(W) ,2876mm(WB). Fuel tank 55 liters. Sorento ; 4800mm(L) ,1890mm(W) , 2780mm (WB), 185mm(GC). Fuel tank is 70 liters. I will not bring BR-V, Glory into his equation while there is no need to discuss the Fortuner, as that is not related directly to this segment as such, price as well as the capabilities and use. Bottom Line - The Sticker Price The current auto policy, effective from 2021 to 2016, has provided incentives for hybrid and electric vehicles in the form of reduced duty/customs on the import of parts. Toyota wanted to win the race by introducing the first hybrid model in the country, but it failed as Haval had already revealed a locally assembled H6 hybrid. We are hearing that Honda Atlas is working on a hybrid version of HR-V, but we currently have Santa Fe in the pipeline, and the official reveal is close now. As per available information, the model will be made public within the next two months. Now, the next question would be the price, and it's challenging to guess that when the $ exchange rate is still very high, although it has receded in recent weeks. Well, I think that Hyundai Santa Fe might be around Rs. 12 Million +/- but with the history of Nishat in front of us, they might go as much as  Rs. 13 Million and maybe more. Launching with a so-called Introductory price and then bumping the price within weeks is also possible. Hyundai Nishat should undercut the price of the Haval H6 hybrid, which is currently around Rs. 12.14 Million. Hyundai has the added advantage of being a 3-row, and with the lower prices, they can grab customers. But I will advise and highly recommend that Hyundai should introduce a well-equipped model that includes safety equipment besides better-built quality, fit & finish. With the current crisis of the economy and high interest rates, car sales are already down, and any unrealistic pricing will not help the sales graphs. As the 4th generation facelift model also utilized the same N3 chassis as Hyundai Sonata, there can be some cost recovery, keeping in mind its production will cease in overseas markets, and Hyundai Nishat might be able to get cheaper discontinued CKD kits and other related parts, beside assembly jigs and machinery probably dismantled in the outside world. Good Luck, Hyundai Nishat! Are you waiting for the new Hyundai Santa Fe? Please tell us in the comments section. [gallery columns="6" size="publisher-lg" bgs_gallery_type="slider" ids="180011,179929,179931,179933,179939,179941"]

Today’s owner review features the one-in-one Hyundai Santa Fe, a car soon to be welcomed by the market in the coming months, as per insider reports. Without further ado, let’s head straight to what this SUV offers. This 2021 Santa Fe is a plug-in hybrid 7-seater ultimate variant from the 2nd generation series of the model. A plug-in hybrid car, or PHEV, combines electric and petrol power sources to make it more understandable. It can be charged via mains for 30-50 kms of electric range before switching to petrol. As per multiple sources, we expect Hyundai to officially launch this car soon, making this car the sole completely built unit (CBU) in Pakistan. Price  Imported by the owner in July 2022, this car cost him around PKR 25 million. Considering the fuel economy, the owner shares his rationale for buying the Santa Fe.  Range He further added that, at times, his car even lasted around two months in one fuel tank, indeed a head turner news in today’s economy. Within Lahore city, the car rarely demands the owner to fill the tank, providing him with a range of 55 km on one charge. Wanting the best of both worlds due to two concerns, load shedding and fuel prices in Pakistan, the owner encircled a PHEV as the right option. Engine This Santa Fe engine is the 1.6L All-Wheel Drive variant, producing a combined power of around 260 hp and 350 Nm of torque. Interior Hyundai provides Santa Fe with a similar interior to the Hyundai Sonata model. Specific examples are Santa Fe’s dashboard and speedometer. Furthermore, Alcantara finishing beautifies the roof of this car. Features Loaded with extensive features, Santa Fe comes with a panoramic roof, CVT gearbox, heated steering wheel, parking sensors, downhill assist, heated ventilated seats, blue link, wired Android auto and Apple car play options, and various driving modes, including sports mode and a valet mode with a range of 10 ft. Also, the dash features comprise lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and cameras to show cornering. Charging Time Disclaimer for a little bummer: this car requires 3.5 hours at the petrol pump’s charging station. At home, Santa Fe takes around 4 hours of charging time. Maintenance & Parts Availability The owner has opted for the Hyundai center to tick the service requirements. As per him, oil changing costs him a standard fee of PKR 10-15k. Although parts aren’t available in the local market, the owner doesn’t feel the loss as he often travels abroad. He can import the parts from Dubai; he shares if need be. Fortunately, no such requirement has arisen since the purchase by the owner. Watch Video 

The launch of locally assembled Hyundai Santa Fe is the talk of the local auto market these days. The serious buzz about this luxury car started when its locally assembled unit was spotted in Deosai. As per reports and our sources, the company was testing the car's road durability, which means its launch is quite close. And now our reliable sources have updated us about the launch of this new offering by Hyundai Nishat Motors. According to them, the company is all set to reveal and launch its 5th CKD model in Pakistan. The sources have claimed that Hyundai will launch this car in the next few weeks. "It could happen either at the end of this month or the start of next month, October," the sources told us. They further added that Hyundai will hold a mega event for this purpose in Lahore. If the sources are telling the truth, it means that we are going to get a new car from Hyundai very soon. Notably, the spotting of CKD Santa Fe was quite surprising as there were no rumours about its launch. However, one of the PakWheels Community members saw the car in northern areas of Pakistan and told us, and everyone came to know about this new machine by Hyundai Pakistan. The launch of this new car will surely make some noise in the currently stagnant industry due to volatile economic conditions. Hyundai Santa Fe Santa Fe is a city in New Mexico State of the United States, and one of the most imported nameplates for Hyundai. The model's first generation went into production in 2000, and since then, it has been a success for the brand. In fact, Santa Fe is the first-ever sports utility vehicle for Hyundai, and since its inception, it has hit almost 5.3 million in global sales. The Santa Fe first generation was in a compact segment category, but over the years, it grew in size and now targets the mid-size segment depending upon the market; it is available in a 3-row -7 seat option besides a standard 2-row -5 seat version. Hyundai Global recently introduced an all-new 5th-generation model, which will be available for sale in North America, Korea, and Europe later this year. Salient Specs & Features  The 4th generation, with chassis code "TM," went into production in 2018 and got a major facelift in 2020. Hyundai Santa Fe is the nonidentical twin of the Kia Sorento, and both models have been sharing technical under the skin. When the 4th generation Santa Fe was introduced in 2018, it shared its underpinning (Y-Platform) with the 3rd generation Sorento (the same model we currently have in Pakistan). The model got a new cascading wide grill with new headlights integrated into the grill. This provides a wider and sporty character. There are T-shaped LED DRLs, while depending on variants, there can be dual projector high and low beams (side by side) or dual stacked LED reflector headlights. The models with projector headlights also get the sequential turn signal, which changes the upper portion of DRL into amber. Although we don't know exactly which headlights we will see on our local model, there might be a dual LED reflector in one short video clip. In this case, a typical turn signal is next to the headlight housing. The imagery we got from Deosai doesn't reveal any interior details, but we know how it will look regarding layout. Obviously, the options, features, and equipment we see on the international model might not land here in our local model, but we can hope and wish that we get the maximum out of it. The facelift model gets a new and high-tech interior. There is a new floating center console that holds several buttons to control HVAC, media, and other functions. The facelift model also gets a shift-by-wire transmission similar to the Hyundai Sonata; this provides a new design for the center console, creating ample storage space available underneath it. Engine of Hyundai Santa Fe The 4th gen Santa FE facelift is available in multiple configurations, which include conventional 178hp 2.5L MPI, 191hp 2.5L GDI, 227hp 2.0L Turbo GDI, 277hp, 2.5L Turbo GDI, 268hp 3.5L MPI engine. Santa Fe is also available in 2.2L diesel, but the more attractive version is 1.6L Turbo GDI hybrid and 1.6L Turbo GDI plugin hybrid. The HEV/ normal Hybrid uses a 59hp electric motor integrated into the transmission. The engine delivers 178hp, which, in combination with an electric motor, produces a combined 227hp 350Nm of torque. There is a space-saving 270 Volt 1.49kWh lithium-ion battery under the driver seat. Price There is no announcement regarding the price of the locally assembled Santa Fe by the company; however, market experts and our sources believe that it would be between Rs. 1.7 and 1.9 crore.