Sime Darby Hyundai Integrated Sdn Bhd (SDHI) has officially signed a Certificate of Mass Production with Inokom Corporation Sdn Bhd to commence mass production of the highly anticipated facelifted Santa Fe. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in their shared commitment to strengthening the local automotive ecosystem and delivering exceptional value to customers.
It has received a significant exterior makeover, showcasing a sleek and modern design. At the front, the headlights are now seamlessly integrated with the grille, presenting a neater appearance. Notably, the daytime-running lights feature a T-shaped signature, adding to the modern look.
A redesigned front bumper with robust satin silver trim gives the SUV a more off-road-ready aesthetic, enhancing its imposing stance. The fog lamps on the lower bumper have been omitted in this facelift model.
Moving to the rear, the classic chrome trim that once spanned between the LED tail lights has undergone a transformation, now replaced by a slim illuminated bar that perfectly complements the T-shaped light signature. Additionally, the bumper has been streamlined, and the separate lighting cluster for turn indicators and reverse lights has been seamlessly integrated.
One intriguing aspect of the Santa Fe facelift is the platform switch. It has transitioned from the previous Y7 platform to the cutting-edge N3 architecture, a platform shared with the all-new fifth-generation model. This transition has necessitated slight adjustments in dimensions, making the 2023 facelift model 15mm longer, 10mm wider, and 5mm taller while maintaining an unchanged wheelbase.
The adoption of the new N3 platform has also introduced a shift-by-wire system, leading to a redesigned centre console. With the elimination of a mechanical linkage, this console now offers increased storage space underneath and seamlessly accommodates control buttons, including a terrain mode selector.
While the powertrain options for the Malaysian market have not been confirmed, the new platform allows for eco-friendly alternatives like hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. It’s anticipated that the facelifted model might bring an increase in price, aligning with economic trends.
