Seven seats and six cylinders
WELCOME back V6, the family was missing you. Hyundai has dropped its 199kW/318Nm 3.3-litre naturally aspirated six-cylinder petrol into the seven-seat Santa Fe Series II SUV as a permanent feature, following the engine’s introduction in the limited run of 300 Santa Fe 30 Special Editions last year.
Known as the Santa Fe Active X, the petrol powerhouse joins the range’s 2.4-litre petrol Active variant and the torquey 2.2-litre diesel models.
Despite its ‘X’ badge, the V6 model sends power only to the front wheels – the rest of the Santa Fe range are all-wheel drive. It features a six-speed automatic gearbox and costs $40,990 before on-road costs.
No doubt aimed at the on-road rather than off-road buyer, cost-wise the Santa Fe Active X sits between the 2.4-litre petrol Active with manual gearbox for $39,350 and the all-wheel drive diesel Active for $42,350.
The Active X scores some desirable kit as standard. For the exterior you get dark grey 19-inch wheels, chrome door handles, heated mirrors and rain-sensing wipers.
Inside are heated leather-appointed seats, dual-zone climate control, glovebox cooling and a seven-inch touchscreen audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity.
It also comes with a five-star ANCAP safety rating, seven airbags, rear camera and rear park assist.
“For buyers who don’t need all-wheel drive, Active X is a capable and exceptionally well-equipped Hyundai large SUV for under $41,000,” said Hyundai’s Scott Grant.
Braked towing capacity matches the auto transmission four-wheel drive Santa Fe models at 2000kg, but you’ll need the manual gearbox to haul up to 2500kg.
The trade-off for the additional power from the V6 petrol is a thirstier nature.
The Active X will drink 10.5-litres/100km (combined), while the 2.4-litre petrol manages 9.4L/100km and the diesel just 7.8L/100km.
It’s on sale now.