Autoblog

Spy pics: Refreshed 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe spotted camo-free

Sam Abuelsamid — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 10:57:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossover, Hyundai

2010 Hyundai Santa Fe - click above for high-res image gallery

On the way into the office the morning, this blogger sat at a red light, only to notice a new Hyundai Santa Fe pulling up behind. A glance at the grille revealed that this was not the current model at dealerships, but rather the refreshed iteration that should be debuting in the not-too-distant future. Thankfully, a handy camera phone was on hand to snap the images in the gallery below.

As you can see from the photo above, Hyundai's middle crossover offering is getting a new grille in keeping with the one we recently saw on the upcoming new Sonata. The bumper area is also re-contoured into a more subtle version of what is scheduled for the new Tucson coming to the Los Angeles Auto Show. The headlight clusters retain the same shape, but internal detailing has been revised. At the back, new taillights and re-shaping of the bumper area is also visible. No word yet on mechanical changes, although a new direct-injected four-cylinder has been rumored.

Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe spy pics

Spy pics: Refreshed 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe spotted camo-free originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO]

Chris Shunk — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:28:00 EST

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Hyundai

Hyundai Assurance Gas Lock ads - Click above to watch the videos after the jump

Hyundai is piling on additional incentives to boost its Assurance program as the industry heads into the dog days of summer. The newest promotion, Gas Lock, fixes the price of regular unleaded at $1.49 per gallon for the next year. The program runs July 1 through August 31, and eligible vehicles include the Accent, Sonata, Tiburon, Elantra, Elantra Touring, Entourage, Azera, Santa Fe, Tucson and Veracruz. Customers choosing to utilize Gas Lock will forgo $1,000 in available rebates, making the incentive a gamble that gas prices will remain high.

Hyundai Assurance struck at cord with the American public when it offered payment protection in the event of job loss. Now Hyundai is looking to give consumers increased peace of mind over of the volatility of gas prices, which have swung from under $2 a gallon a few months ago to nearly $3 at the beginning of summer.

John Krafcik, CEO and president of Hyundai Motor America, says the company's research shows that "nearly 40% of potential new car buyers are staying out of the market specifically due to uncertainty around future gas prices."

You may remember that last year, Chrysler tried a similar promotion, offering the opportunity to lock in gas at $2.99 per gallon when a gallon of petrol was at an all-time high of about $4.50. The move didn't appear to be very successful for the Pentastar, as most opted to instead take the upfront cash on the hood. Hit the jump to pour over the particulars of Hyundai's Gas Lock promotion, watch the two commercials, and let us know in the comments section if you feel customers would be better off taking the $1,000 or one year of $1.49 gasoline.

[Source: Hyundai | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty]

Continue reading New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO]

New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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KDM Hyundai Santa Fe gets a facelift for 2010... is the U.S. next?

Chris Paukert — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:27:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Crossover, Hyundai

A facelifted version of Hyundai's popular Santa Fe crossover has just been unwrapped in its home market, along with a pair of new diesel engines.

As this first image shows, the model's exterior update is a mild one, with a modestly tweaked grille, lower fascia, new fog lamps and side mirrors being the most noticeable changes. While there are likely a few tweaks around back and inside, we won't know for sure until we can source additional images and information.

Regardless, as we hear it, the Korean Domestic Market cute-ute will offer a choice of four-cylinder diesel powerplants - a 2.0-liter mill giving 137 kW and 392 Nm of torque (184 hp and 289 lb-ft), while a bigger 2.2-liter powerplant is said to provide 149 kW and 436 Nm of twist (200 hp and 322 lb-ft).

We asked our sources at Hyundai if we could expect to see these changes, and while they stopped short of confirming this exact facelift, AB's mole did allow that a "freshened" model is indeed expected in dealers early next year. Better yet, that model will include new powertrain options - but sadly, no diesel.

[Source: Autoblog Spanish]

KDM Hyundai Santa Fe gets a facelift for 2010... is the U.S. next? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Multiple Hyundai recalls for brake lamps and rust issues affect nearly 1M units

Michael Harley — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:20:00 EST

Filed under: Recalls, Hyundai

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Hyundai have initiated recalls on 963,305 vehicles as part of four separate campaigns. The first recall, blanketing over one half million late-model vehicles, is nationwide. The other three recalls, all corrosion-related on older vehicles, are limited to the regions of the country where salt is used to de-ice roads in the winters.

The most widespread recall, affecting up to 531,894 2005-2008 Accent, Azera, Elantra, Entourage, Santa Fe, Sonata, Tucson, and Veracruz models, is NHTSA Campaign 09V122000. It is focused on a malfunctioning stop lamp switch that may prevent brake lights from illuminating when the pedal is depressed (the same switch may also cause them to stay lit after the brakes are released).

The second recall, affecting up to 175,765 1999-2004 Sonata, XG300, and XG350 models, is NHTSA Campaign 09V124000. That recall, limited to America's so-called "Salt Belt" states, is centered around potentially excessive corrosion of the front sub-frame due to winter road salt applications. If unnoticed, the lower control arm may separate from its mount.

The third recall, affecting up to 170,610 2001-2003 Elantra and Tiburon models, is NHTSA Campaign 09V125000. Also limited to the salt-belt states, the affected component is a failed lower control arm due to excessive corrosion.

The fourth recall, affecting up to 85,036 2001-2003 Santa Fe models, is NHTSA Campaign 09V123000. Again limited to to the Salt Belt states, the recall is centered around the possible internal corrosion of the rear trailing arms in the vehicle's suspension.

In all four recalls, Hyundai dealers will inspect, repair, and replace defective or damaged parts at no cost to the owner. In some situations, rust-proofing material will be added to chassis areas to arrest the corrosion process. Owners of affected vehicles may contact Hyundai Customer Service at 1-800-633-5151, call the NHTSA Hotline at 1-888-327-4236, or visit SAFERCAR.GOV. Press releases after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Multiple Hyundai recalls for brake lamps and rust issues affect nearly 1M units

Multiple Hyundai recalls for brake lamps and rust issues affect nearly 1M units originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hyundai UK's gussied-up Santa Fe Limited

Alex Nunez — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 09:27:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Europe, Crossover, Hyundai

Click image for photo gallery

In the wake of the rather appealing Tucson Xenith, Hyundai's UK division is bringing another special-edition SUV to market. This time, the Santa Fe gets the Limited treatment. All UK Santa Fe Limiteds get diesel power, which brings combined-cycle fuel economy of over 32 US mpg to the party. The other features that differentiate the limited from the regular Santa Fe are "Limited" badges (obviously), standard running boards, black wheel arch accents, tinted glass, a backup sensor, and a mesh grille that sets off the "Limited" look very nicely. It'll come in four colors, feature leather seats, an MP3 audio system and a few other standard features that cost extra on other Santa Fe models. Hey Hyundai, this isn't a bad-looking ride. Stick that grille and the other exterior enhancements on the US-market Limited already.

Hyundai's press release is pasted after the jump.

[Source: Hyundai UK]

Gallery: Hyundai Santa Fe Limited (UK)

Continue reading Hyundai UK's gussied-up Santa Fe Limited

Hyundai UK's gussied-up Santa Fe Limited originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Aug 2007 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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IIHS gives SantaFe Top Pick status

Chris Shunk — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 07:55:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Government/Legal, Safety, Crossover, Hyundai

Hyundai has been on a mission to turn their fortunes around with hard work, smart engineering and a dogged determination to improve. The 2007 Santa Fe has just gone from the dubious rating of "poor" to a trifecta of "good" in front, side, and rear collisions by the IIHS. The '07 Santa Fe owes its dramatic and positive swing in the IIHS ratings to standard Stability Control and several improvements to the seats and head rest. The IIHS "good" trophy will look terrific on Hyundai's mantel alongside the Santa Fe's five-star NHTSA rating for front and side impact.

This is more good news for Hyundai that's on a bit of a roll. The Veracruz just beat out the Lexus RX350 in a Motor Trend comparison, RWD luxury vehicles with V8 engines will soon be in the lineup, and quality scores have improved dramatically. If we were Toyota, we'd be sweating the sleeper company from South Korea right about now. Check out the full press release after the jump.

[Source: IIHS]

Continue reading IIHS gives SantaFe Top Pick status

IIHS gives SantaFe Top Pick status originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 07:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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More hysteria over suggestive ads: Hyundai yanks ad featuing baby behind the wheel

Dan Roth — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 14:03:00 EST

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Hyundai

Aw hell, here we go again. Hyundai is pulling its spot called "Restless" after the Advertising Standards Bureau of Australia banned it. The ad, which appeals to people's warm, gooey centers by adultifying toddlers, shows a baby snatching the keys to the Santa Fe and hitting the highway. Along the way, he picks up a girl who happens to be hitching to the beach. He surfs, she watches, world hunger and strife are nearly wiped out in the span of sixty seconds. It's a great spot and was voted the most popular ad in New Zealand last year (what a dubious distinction!)

The ASB argues that the ad shows illegal activity (and there's nothing else on TV that shows illegal stuff?), and may entice youngsters into copycat behavior. Right. Like nobody in the history of the car ever had a kid yank the controls before this ad suggested it? Kids love to pretend like they're adults, so you can be sure that if you plop your toddler in the driver's seat, they're going to have a grand old time. Not that there's much watchable content on television anymore, but these situations go beyond the ridiculous and will just lead to more whitewashed, mamby-pamby crap for us to have to sit through. What's next, banning talking animal spots because no animal really talks? Come on people! There's got to be a more fulfilling pursuit than getting all wadded up over an ad - this is one of the most harmless, charming spots we've seen in a while.

We just don't get it, but apparently there's a large contingent out there who yearns to be protected from themselves. Life is no fun if you don't collect a few bumps and scrapes. Yes, I drove mom's '68 Rambler into the garage and out into the street a couple times as a kid. I couldn't help it - that column shift was just asking for it!

Thanks for the tip, Anton!

Check out the spot after the jump

[Source: duncans.tv]

Continue reading More hysteria over suggestive ads: Hyundai yanks ad featuing baby behind the wheel

More hysteria over suggestive ads: Hyundai yanks ad featuing baby behind the wheel originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Feb 2007 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hyundai Santa Fe CRDi goes 1,100 miles on one tank of diesel

Erin Mays — Wed, 13 Dec 2006 08:31:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, SUV, Green, Hyundai

Some guys get off on rock climbing. Others sky dive, bungee jump, spend exorbitant amounts of money in the stock market and more, just to experience a thrill or two. Danish-born eco adventurer Hans Tholstrup gets his kicks from going green in ways no one has gone green before. Fans of the World Solar Car Challenge, for example, can credit the race's founding to Tholstrup, and he was originally made famous when he circled the continent of Australia in a 16-foot open boat.

This time around, the Hyundai Santa Fe CRDi (Common-Rail Direct injection) supplied Tholstrup with his thrill. After the diesel mid-size sport utility vehicle not only transported Tholstrup from Adelaide to Sydney on a single tank of gas -- with over a quarter of a tank left -- Tholstrup decided to trek a little bit farther to Port Macquarie for a total of 1,100 miles and over 50 miles per gallon. Not bad for an all-wheel drive mid-sized seven-seater weighing in at just under two tons.

In a press release yesterday, Hyundai touted the achievement in the same breath as it denounced hybrids such as the Lexus RX400h as less efficient vehicles with issues surrounding battery disposal and cost. Hyundai has rumbled here and there within the last year about creating affordable hybrid versions of its vehicles, and it and even went so far as to launch the Portico concept vehicle in Chicago, but so far, no firm plans have been announced.

[Source: Gizmag]

Hyundai Santa Fe CRDi goes 1,100 miles on one tank of diesel originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Dec 2006 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pricing for the all-new 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe

Joel Arellano — Fri, 23 Jun 2006 06:52:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, SUV, Hyundai

Hyundai Motor Co. has released pricing information for the 2007 Santa Fe. The SUV, which dealerships should be receiving this month, is brand new having undergone extensive changes from last year's model.

The starting base price at $20,945 is below last year's price of $21,695. The Santa Fe is offered in three trims: GLS, SE, and Limited. Two V-6 engines are offered, and while an automatic transmission is offered for both engines, a manual is only offered in GLS trim. All-wheel drive is also available. Other features include a rear seat DVD system and third-row seating. Hyundai plans to offer XM satellite radio and Bluetooth later this year. GPS navigation system will be offered some time in 2007.

Here's the basic breakdown of pricing:

Santa Fe GLS 2.7L V6 5-Speed M/T FWD $20,945
Santa Fe GLS 2.7L V6 5-Speed M/T AWD $22,945
Santa Fe GLS 2.7L V6 4-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC(R) FWD $22,145
Santa Fe GLS 2.7L V6 4-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC(R) AWD $24,145
Santa Fe SE 3.3L V6 5-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC(R) FWD $23,645
Santa Fe SE 3.3L V6 5-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC(R) AWD $25,645
Santa Fe Limited 3.3L V6 5-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC(R) FWD $25,945
Santa Fe Limited 3.3L V6 5-Speed A/T with SHIFTRONIC(R) AWD $27,945

Specification details can be found here and here. Press release is after the jump.

[Source: Hyundai Motor America]

Continue reading Pricing for the all-new 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe

Pricing for the all-new 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Jun 2006 06:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Hyundai "Terracan"

John Neff — Mon, 10 Apr 2006 16:06:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, SUV, Crossover, Hyundai

This large unibody SUV from Hyundai could be a replacement for the Terracan sold elsewhere around the world or it could be a new CUV developed specifically with the North American market in mind. The Car Connection seems to believe the latter, and who are we to argue? Known internally as the "EN", this Ford Explorer-sized utility vehicle would occupy the territory above the Sante Fe in Hyundai's line-up. The two vehicles would share the same platform, except the EN would receive a stretched and widened version to go with its unique interior and exterior. Motivation will most likely come from Hyundai's flagship 3.8L V6 being used in the Azera at the moment.

[Source: The Car Connection]

UPDATE: Corrected availability of Terracan - it's also sold in Europe, as well as Asia.

Spy Shots: Hyundai "Terracan" originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Apr 2006 16:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hyundai Azera proves crashworthiness to IIHS - earns "Good"

John Neff — Thu, 06 Apr 2006 13:32:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Safety, Hyundai

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has given the new 2006 Hyundai Azera a frontal offset impact rating of "Good", the organization's best rating for crashworthiness. Like many a Hyundai, the Azera's virtually a padded room on wheels with Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, ABS and eight airbags all standard.

The Azera's "Good" rating gives Hyundai a full-boat of highly rated vehicles. All current model Hyundai vehicles tested by the IIHS, which includes the Elantra, Santa Fe, Sonata and XG300/XG350, have earned a "Good" frontal offset impact rating.

[Source: Hyundai and IIHS]

Hyundai Azera proves crashworthiness to IIHS - earns "Good" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Apr 2006 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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