Hyundai Santa Fe replaces V6, adds turbo power for 2013

Hyundai launched the third generation of its Santa Fe SUV on Aug. 20. It will come in two sizes: a five-passenger model similar to the outgoing model and a longer-wheelbase, seven-passenger vehicle.

The five-passenger version is powered by one of two four-cylinder engines. The old 2.4-liter continues with an increased output of 190 hp, up from 175 hp. Fuel economy for the Santa Fe Sport measures 22 mpg in the city and 33 on the highway, besting the new Toyota RAV4, 2012 Chevy Equinox and the 2013 Ford Escape.

The Santa Fe Sport also offers a high-output 2.0-liter turbo version of the engine, making 264 hp. Highway fuel economy is rated at 31 mpg.

In the long-wheelbase Santa Fe, the former 3.5-liter V6 is replaced with a 3.3-liter version producing 290 hp and 252 lb-ft of torque.

Six-speed transmissions are standard on all models.

The styling is radically different from the outgoing model. Hyundai says its fluidic sculpture design language “invokes the impression of irrepressible motion through a new concept called Storm Edge.” Basically, it looks a little meaner and a little more angular than last year's model. The hexagonal grille is accented by lighting at the corners, similar to the Genesis coupe. The rear looks a bit cleaner, with the side character lines swooping over the taillights. A small roof spoiler sits on the rear hatch.

The base Santa Fe with the 2.4-liter engine costs $25,275, including $825 in destination charges. The upgraded 2.0-liter turbocharged vehicle goes for $28,525. All-wheel drive adds about $1,800 to each price.

The Santa Fe Sport is on sale now, while the long-wheelbase version will go on sale in January. Pricing for that car will be announced closer to launch.

The full press release is reprinted below:

All-New Santa Fe Lineup Reinvents the family CUV Landscape with Progressive Design, Efficient Powertrains and Upscale Amenities

Introduces Two Wheelbase Strategy to Expand Market Reach

COSTA MESA, Calif., Aug. 17, 2012 – The all-new third-generation Santa Fe launches today in two flavors, a five-passenger model similar in size to today's Santa Fe, and a longer wheelbase three-row, seven-passenger model. Both are capable crossovers built for today's family, with flexible seating and cargo, strong performance courtesy of dramatic weight savings (266 lbs. lighter than the 2012 model) and advanced safety technologies. Santa Fe showcases the brand's cutting-edge capabilities through its bold design, impressive fuel economy and a host of features to delight drivers and passengers with high expectations for functionality and comfort. The all-new 2013 five-passenger Santa Fe Sport began arriving at Hyundai dealerships in August, with the long wheelbase Santa Fe set to arrive in January 2013.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 2013 SANTA FE LINEUP

All-new crossover architecture developed for families that seek size, flexibility and functionality

Third-generation crossover with two wheelbase strategy – two-row, five-passenger Santa Fe Sport and larger three-row, seven-passenger Santa Fe

“Fluidic Sculpture” exterior design – dynamic and fluid design with bold surfaces and balanced lines

Key development target – substantial weight reduction (-266 lbs.)

Accomplished with high application of high tensile steel – high tensile steel ratio of 37.7% (vs. 7.8% for outgoing model)

Improved torsional stiffness by 15.7%

All four-cylinder engine lineup for the Santa Fe Sport

Theta II 2.4-liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine

190 horsepower with improved fuel economy and acceleration

Highest highway fuel economy (33 mpg EPA estimated) of any CUV/SUV equipped with an automatic transmission

High-output Theta II 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI engine

264 horsepower with excellent fuel economy

EPA estimated highway fuel economy at 31 mpg (FWD A/T)

Lambda II 3.3-liter GDI V6 engine with 290 horsepower powers LWB Santa Fe

LWB Santa Fe is the only midsize CUV with a standard direct injection V6 engine

In-house six-speed automatic transmission

12-speaker Infinity Logic 7

By Jake Lingeman