Santa Fe crossover SUV is a rising star. The Korean company can’t stop impressing in the last couple of years. They already plan to launch a pickup truck. And Hyundai is serious about it. But, before it happens, we will witness the first update of the new SUV. The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe is going to fix all lacks of the first model of the third generation. Well, we expect first feedbacks. But, since there are many changes, there will be plenty of space for complaints by users, and, of course, improvements.
What do we expect from the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe? N Sport Performance package. A seven-seater third-row XL version. The diesel engine and Improved towing capacity. New colors. A convertible model.
The SUV means business. Top models are getting a new competition. Even the special Sport model is on the way to challenge Ford Edge. But hey, 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe is not doing that only in standard class, but also the upper version Edge ST sees a rival in N Sport version. All in all, we can’t wait for all Santa Fe is going to bring in 2020. But, let’s check out the rumors and details available now.
2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Spy Shots – The SUV is Coming
Whenever we see a test mule on street, that means the production is near. So, the prototype of the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe means a lot to fans. First – these vehicles confirm some changes. We are not sure what is under the heavy camouflage. But, something special is definitely happening. The Korean company wouldn’t hide it just a year after the release of the third generation. New parts for N Performance model? A plug-in hybrid?? It could be anything. There are no more big surprises with Hyundai. The carmaker became the important factor.
2020 Hyundai Santa Fe N Sport Performance to Compete Ford Edge ST
Well, the domestic company and a favorite compact crossover of US buyers always get a special treatment. All changes are monitoring with enthusiasm. So it is with performance-oriented ST crossover announced for next season. But, wait a minute. The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe N Sport is there to spoil the party.
This version is going to be blacked out. More dark details instead of chrome will make the Santa Fe more aggressive and elegant. From what we know so far, grille and roof are going to be painted in new color. A lot of blue accents will add stylish finishes. Custom wheels and splitter are also on the way.
2020 Hyundai Santa Fe N Sportier Interior and Performance
The new 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe N model will be recognizable from outside and inside. If unique colors, parts, and rims are unveiling it on streets, inside the cabin drivers will find special badging and stitches. Sportier seats and contrasting colors are highlights of the N performance version. Also, different upholstery will improve overall comfort.
A special engine is also available for Hyundai Santa Fe N in 2020. It is a Theta II unit with 235 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque for the base model. For its upper trim, 2.0-liter turbo-four drivetrain can crunch 270 ponies. Some experts believe the Korean company will push it even further, up to 330 hp with a 2.5-liter turbo mill.
2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Specs
So, under the hood of the standard model will be a 2.0-liter engine with the capability to produce 235 hp. The same powertrain is being used by the new Hyundai Veloster, and it can deliver 270 hp. Torque is the same – 260 lb-ft.
The company dropped a 3.3-liter engine from a new generation in favor of mentioned turbo unit, and a base 2.4-liter powertrain. The standard offer includes inline-four engine without turbochargers and outputs of 185 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. Well, fuel economy is better, around 25 mpg combined. Turbo-four is returning 25 mpg on the highway.
Towing Capacity, Hybrid, Diesel
It is official – bosses announced a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe diesel. After some while, the rumors are becoming reality. Emission restrictions are not a problem anymore for the new model. Highlights of this unit are 190 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque from a 2.2-liter CRDi engine. Also, the powertrain will be capable to tow more than petrol units. Well, even with gasoline drivetrains, the Santa Fe is pretty capable to tow – 5,000 pounds. An eight-speed automatic gearbox will be standard for all engines.
Also for possible hybrid SUV. These rumors are shy, but we can still hear them. Hyundai is going to reconsider this model since the development of a hybrid drivetrain needs a lot of effort, time, and cash. Well, engineers could pair a 2.0-liter unit with electric motors for 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid. This is the most certain possibility.
2020 Hyundai Santa Fe XL
The new SUV is longer than before. However, the company doesn’t cut the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe XL version. Well, this third-row model was not as popular as its 5-seat version. However, Hyundai keep tabs on it, since many other mid-size rivals have both two- and three-row models. All in all, we will see again a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe third-row 7-seater in salons.
Hyundai Santa Fe Convertible in Production?
We could see a preview of the convertible version of the Santa Fe three-row SUV, but the company immediately stated this was a prototype and the vehicle is not going into production. But, the interest in this model grew up, and it seems like the Korean carmaker is changing its mind. The cabriolet vehicle could be part of the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe lineup. Well, we will have to wait for the release date to find out if convertible is a refresh for the upcoming season.
Ground Clearance
The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe is not going to improve off-road capabilities of its predecessor. And these are poor. With just 7.3 inches of ground clearance, rocky roads or overloaded vehicle could make the off-roading pretty messy. The new model is not going to increase the ground clearance and gap between the body and terrain, so the Santa Fe should remain on asphalt.
When Will 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Be Available?
Model for 2019 season arrived very early, so the first update of the new generation could be finished in the first half of next year. Well, everything depends on options Hyundai wants to add for Santa Fe 2020. N package, hybrid, diesel… that would be too much for the first update. These upgrades will come one by one. The release date of the first model is not set yet, but we guess it is about to happen next fall.
Price
As for the release date, the price of the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe will depend on a number of upgrades. Well, the base SUV will cost the same. But, diesel and hybrid engines, as well as N Sport Performance package will raise the price. How high – we will know closer in 2019.
The open roof is awesome. This is a true example of luxury ride