2021 Hyundai Santa Fe gets N Line aesthetic updates

KUALA LUMPUR: Just after three years of last revamp, the South Korean automaker unveiled an updated version of Santa Fe crossover previous month. The redesigned midsize SUV features a new look, new platform, new interior, and new electrified powertrains. Now, the SUV is again in the limelight, and this time it is for exclusive N Line aesthetic updates. 

As per the report of The Korean Car Blog, Hyundai has released the N Performance parts for 2021 Santa Fe in the domestic market. Let's see how the N model looks inside out.

Upfront, the SUV features black finishing on the radiator grille and aggressively designed bumper. The grille deviated from the meshed finish of the standard model and replaced it with a "cheese grater" grille. The front bumper and rear bumper as well as the grille, get the Sahara Beige exterior color accents, marking a huge point of difference.

Other tidbits of the exterior package include a rear spoiler, 21- inch wheels, N performance brakes, carbon diffuser, bonnet carbon garnish, side mirror carbon cover, fender flare, and sidestep. The 21-inch rims are the largest in the Korean market. 

Inside, the new Santa Fe model gets N sport seats upholstered with Alcantara and carbon fibre accents. The seatbacks have CF trim and screens attached to them for the rear passengers. Carbon finishings can also be seen on the steering wheel, centre console, door trim, etc. Alcantara material covers the dashboard and further elevates the look.

Speaking of the oily bits, 2021 Santa Fe houses a new hybrid setup combining a 1.6-litre T-GDi 'Smartstream' engine, a 1.49 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery, and a 59-hp electric motor. This setup can produce 226 hp and 350 Nm of torque, which can be transmitted to either the front or all four wheels. 

A plug-in hybrid will also be on offer pairing the same engine with an 89-hp motor powered by a 13.8 kWh lithium-ion battery. The combined output is 261 hp and 350 Nm. Well, these engines are currently announced for the European market only.

At present, the older Santa Fe is available in certain other markets, including Malaysia, where the fourth-generation model was launched last year. 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe price starts at RM 169,888.

Also read: Check out the first look of Hyundai Elantra N Line performance sedan