Hyundai launches new generation Santa Fe SUV

Hyundai Motor India on Wednesday rolled out the much awaited new Santa Fe sports utility vehicle on day one of the 2014 Indian Auto Expo. Santa Fe's launch comes a day after the South Korean car maker unveiled Xcent, its first compact sedan in India. (Read: Hyundai Xcent subcompact sedan unveiled)

The new Santa Fe is based on Hyundai's most popular Fluidic-derived Strom edge design philosophy and looks more aggressive and sportier than its predecessor. Prices start at Rs 26.3 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) and the SUV will be available in three variants, the company said.

Wearing all new curves and marginally extended dimensions, the Santa Fe looks bigger than before. However, the wheelbase (2700 mm) has remained unchanged. The interior offers the same cabin space and comfort, but looks more up-market, with more features and cosmetic updates.

The new Santa Fe derives its power from a 2.2-litre VGT (Variable Geometry Turbo) diesel unit, which produces a peak power output of 200PS with 431Nm of torque. It comes with six airbags, emergency fastening device, flex steer system and a host of other features.

The new Santa Fe has been introduce in both 2WD (Two-wheel drive) and 4WD (Four-wheel drive) options, with manual and automatic transmission gearbox on offer. It can accelerate to 100 kmph from stand still within 9.4 seconds.

"The third generation Sante Fe is a world-class product and will set new benchmark in India's SUV segment," HMIL Managing Director and CEO B S Seo said.

The 2014 Santa Fe will compete against the likes of Chevrolet Captiva, Toyota Fourtuner, Honda CR-V and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport in India.

Compact sedans and compact SUVs are the fast growing segments in the domestic car market. Hyundai, India's second largest car maker after Maruti Suzuki, is looking to expand its product portfolio to boost sales in the country.