Is Hyundai planning a challenge to the Toyota LandCruiser Prado? The company recently confirmed details for the all-new Santa Fe range but also teased a possible new variant with a more rugged appearance.
This new Santa Fe XRT Concept features more aggressive off-road tyres, a roof storage system, a ladder to the roof and what appear to be extra storage pods on the rear side glass, in an apparent nod to the likes of the Prado and Land Rover Defender.
READ MORE: What you need to know about the new Toyota Prado
Hyundai didn’t reveal much about the XRT but said it has been “tailored to cater diverse needs of outdoor enthusiasts” and “is designed to ignite the ultimate adventure spirit and focuses on unleashing the desires of those seeking the thrill of the wild.”
Whether or not the company commits to pushing the XRT into production remains to be seen, but it’s clearly something Hyundai is considering as more rugged SUVs continue to rise in popularity.
According to the latest sales data, Australians are favouring the more off-road capable large SUVs, with the Prado, Isuzu MU-X and Ford Everest amongst the best-sellers, ahead of the out-going Santa Fe.
The new model is certainly a step up for Hyundai, with the Santa Fe now measuring 4830mm long, 1900mm wide and 1720mm tall with a wheelbase of 2815mm, which is longer overall, wider and a bigger wheelbase than the current offering.
Hyundai has also confirmed what’s under the bonnet. The South Korean market Santa Fe will be powered by a 132kW 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol hybrid and a 207kW 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which could be the most likely options for the Australian market given that’s where we source our models from. In a sign of the times, the hybrid engines have effectively replaced diesel engines in the line-up, as car makers and customers look for cleaner, more fuel-efficient powertrains.
Diskusi tentang posting ini