Hyundai Motor India is taking its third attempt at conquering the SUV segment in India with the new Santa Fe R-Line launched in India yesterday. For all those who were waiting, the Tucson comes in two driveline variants – a 4X2 and 4X4 priced at Rs 20.95 lakhs and 22.95 lakhs respectively Ex-Showroom Delhi. Bookings begin on October 18 and Hyundai is targeting sales of 100-150 units in 2010 and 600-800 every year after that. The Sante Fe seems to be priced a bit on the higher side thanks to it being imported as a CBU. Hyundai at the moment has no plans of locally assembling the Santa Fe. However, you do get the 196bhp diesel engine! Hit the jump for more details, images and specifications.
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Engine : 2.2L CRDi with variable geometry turbochargers; 196bhp @ 3800rpm & 42.9kgm torque between 1,900-2,500 rpm
Transmission : 6-speed manual; Option of two/four wheel drive
Fuel efficiency : 14.6km/l (company claimed)
The latest, second generation Santa Fe made its debut at the North American International Auto Show in 2006 and went on sale later that year. In Hyundai’s lineup, it sits above the Tucson (iX35) and below the bigger Veracruz. The model that is currently on sale in India received a facelift barely a year ago. The present generation Santa Fe earned the “Top Safety pick” award by IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway safety). It also received maximum 5 star safety ratings by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), USA.
There are two versions on offer – a two wheel drive and four wheel drive variant and the difference between the two is deeper than their badges can say. The two wheel drive model loses ESP, active headrests and cruise control compared to the four wheel drive model. However, both variants get front and side curtain airbags, rollover sensor, ABS with EBD, parking sensors, 18” alloy wheels, projector headlamps, two tone interiors with wood finish, separate AC vents for all three rows, 6-CD audio system with Aux-In and ipod input and lots more.
With so much power and six speeds, the Santa Fe will run rings around all its rivals thanks to fearsome performance. The Santa Fe seems to come as a well rounded package – great engine, feature packed at a price that is not far from its rivals. However, will its soft looks(compared to Fortuner and Endeavour) and the Hyundai badge play spoilsport? We think Hyundai might have just done the right thing bringing the R-Line. It shows all signs of success. Enjoy the pictures.
Speaking at the launch, MD and CEO, HMIL H W Park said,
“Globally, Santa Fe has already sold over 20 lakh units since its launch in June 2000 and we are confident that in India, Santa Fe will give us a competitive edge in the SUV segment…”
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