Hyundai Santa Fe
Behind the wheel of new seven-seater SUV on UK roads
WE first drove the all-new Hyundai Santa Fe on European roads back in July (Issue 1,532). Our verdict was positive, but the high list price was a sticking point. Now that we’ve got the SUV back in the UK, complete with early finance rates, can the firm’s flagship topple the all-conquering Skoda Kodiaq?
The first thing that strikes you is how vast the Santa Fe feels inside; the space up front is generous, with loads of adjustment in the seats and steering wheel. The middle row is equally roomy, and the flat floor makes it easy to fit three across the back.
Things only really come undone as you clamber into the third row, which is tight. Hyundai says the boot is bigger, however, with enough space for a few soft bags with all the seats in place. Interior quality is really very good.
You won’t be left wanting for kit. Even ‘basic’ SE cars (from £33,425) come with 17-inch wheels and adaptive cruise control, plus Android Auto and Apple Carplay. Premium SE models like ours get luxuries such as ventilated memory seats and a head-up display.
It drives well, too. Even on broken and battered UK roads, the Santa Fe remains admirably flat. Body roll is kept in check and there’s a decent level of grip. The steering is on the heavy side in each of the different drive settings, but doesn’t offer much feel. Elsewhere, the auto gearbox is smooth and quick, and the diesel engine is refined in the most part.
Price remains an issue, though. A topspec Santa Fe costs £6,255 more than the equivalent Kodiaq, and early finance examples suggest this Premium SE will come in at over £200 per month more than the most expensive Skoda.
With a comparable deposit, the Hyundai will set you back roughly £675 a month, while the better-value Kodiaq is nearer £470 a month. Hyundai claims buyers will have greater equity to play with when the time comes to trade in their car later down the line, however.