2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Interior Revealed: New Infotainment, Premium Materials, & Tech Overhaul and Design Refresh
2027 Hyundai Santa Fe is gearing up for a significant mid-cycle facelift, aiming to reverse declining sales with a sleek new appearance, important mechanical upgrades, and an interior packed with cutting-edge technology. Latest spy photos offer a glimpse into the fifth-generation SUV’s cabin, revealing a complete overhaul that promises to elevate its premium feel and user experience. The updated Santa Fe, based on the “Art of Steel” design philosophy, is expected to debut in late 2026 or early 2027.
A Peek Inside: Tech-Forward Cabin and Premium Materials
While the dashboard in spy shots remains partially covered, the new images from ShortsCar confirm a major technological leap for the Santa Fe’s interior.
- New Infotainment System: The SUV will feature Hyundai’s new infotainment system, powered by the Pleos software. This system is expected to offer highly customizable views, including split-screen and multi-window options, reminiscent of Tesla’s large tablet-style displays.
- High-Grade Materials: The use of high-grade materials and finishes will enhance the interior’s overall upmarket feel, aiming to provide a more luxurious experience for occupants.
Bold Exterior Refresh: “Art of Steel” Philosophy
The 2027 Santa Fe is set for a comprehensive design overhaul, moving away from its current boxy aesthetic towards a more aerodynamic and urban-friendly presence.
- Futuristic Styling: Inspired by the new NEXO hydrogen SUV, the Santa Fe will adopt a futuristic look.
- Sleeker Front: Expect slimmer headlights with side-mounted DRLs and a cleaner four-bar grille.
- Aerodynamic Profile: The side profile will be sleeker, moving away from its previous boxy design to align more with models like the Tucson and Palisade.
- Premium Rear: The rear will feature vertical taillights joined by a distinctive light bar, a raised license plate, and gloss-black accents, contributing to a more premium appearance.
Mechanical Upgrades: Goodbye Jerky Shifts
Beyond cosmetic and tech updates, Hyundai is making crucial mechanical adjustments to address previous criticisms.
- Smoother Transmission: The most significant mechanical change is the replacement of the criticized eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) in the 2.5-liter turbo variants with a much smoother torque-converter automatic transmission. The DCT had drawn flak for jerky shifts and rough low-speed performance.
- Hybrid Powertrain: Hybrid models will continue to use the reliable 1.6-liter turbo engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Stiff Competition in the Midsize SUV Segment
The updated Santa Fe will face a formidable lineup of competitors in the highly competitive U.S. midsize SUV segment.
- Toyota Highlander: A leader known for its bulletproof reliability and strong hybrid options, starting around $45,000.
- Honda Pilot: A popular choice for families seeking spacious three-row seating, priced around $40,000.
- Kia Sorento: From the Hyundai family, the Sorento offers similar tech features and undercuts the competition with a starting price of approximately $32,000.
With its comprehensive redesign, advanced technology, and crucial mechanical improvements, the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe aims to reclaim its strong position in the midsize SUV market and appeal to a broader range of urban and tech-savvy buyers.
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