Get ready for a revolution on wheels. The Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift (2026) is here with a radical boxy design, a premium 7-seater lounge, and advanced Hybrid tech. Discover the new specs, range, and why it’s challenging the luxury kings.
For years, family SUVs have all started to look the same—soft, rounded, and a bit predictable. But the Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift has officially broken that mold. With its unapologetically boxy silhouette and futuristic H-shaped lighting, it looks more like a high-end luxury cruiser than a standard family hauler.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Engine Options | 2.5L Turbo Petrol (277 PS) / 1.6L Turbo Hybrid (231 PS) |
| Transmission | New 8-Speed Torque-Converter Automatic |
| Seating Layout | 6-Seater (Captain Seats) & 7-Seater Options |
| Safety | Level 2 ADAS + 10 Airbags |
| Ground Clearance | 185 mm (up to 210 mm on XRT trim) |
| Price (Expected) | ₹45.00 Lakh – ₹55.00 Lakh (Ex-showroom) |
A Radical Design That Divides Opinions
The first thing you’ll notice about the Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift is its “H-motif” design language. From the headlights to the taillamps, the H-pattern is everywhere, giving the car a distinct, digital-age identity. It’s longer, taller, and much more aggressive than the previous generation.
This “boxy” transformation isn’t just for looks; it’s highly functional. The upright rear tailgate is massive, opening up to a “terrace-like” space that’s perfect for camping or tailgating. Whether you’re driving through the city or parked at a scenic lookout, the Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift commands attention in a way few other SUVs can.
A Cabin Built Like a Luxury Lounge
Inside the Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift, the focus is entirely on space and relaxation. The dashboard features a stunning panoramic curved display that houses two 12.3-inch screens. What’s truly clever is the dual wireless charging pad—finally, no more fighting with your partner over who gets to charge their phone first!
For the 2026 model, Hyundai has introduced “Relaxation Comfort” seats in the front row, which include a leg rest so you can nap comfortably while the car is parked. The materials have also seen a massive upgrade, with eco-friendly leather and soft-touch fabrics used throughout. The Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift even includes a UV-C sanitization compartment in the glovebox to keep your phones and wallets germ-free.
Performance: No More Jerky Gearshifts
The biggest mechanical update for the Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift in 2026 is the transmission. Hyundai has listened to feedback and replaced the old dual-clutch unit with a much smoother 8-speed torque-converter automatic. This makes low-speed crawling in traffic far more refined and improves long-term reliability.
You can choose between a powerful 2.5L Turbo petrol or the highly efficient 1.6L Hybrid system. The Hybrid is particularly impressive, offering a silent city driving experience while still packing enough punch for highway overtakes. With the HTRAC All-Wheel Drive system, the Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift handles rain, mud, and light trails with ease.
Tech and Safety for the Modern Family
Safety has always been a Hyundai stronghold, and the Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift takes it to the next level. It features a comprehensive Level 2 ADAS suite, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor that shows a live video feed of your blind spot directly in the instrument cluster.
Other high-tech additions include a Digital Key 2.0, which lets you unlock and start the car using just your smartphone or Apple Watch. For families with kids, the “Safe Exit Assist” prevents the rear doors from opening if the car detects a vehicle approaching from behind. The Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift is designed to be a protective bubble for your loved ones.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift is a bold gamble that has clearly paid off. By choosing a rugged, retro-modern design and packing it with features usually found in cars twice its price, Hyundai has created a genuine alternative to luxury brands like Volvo and BMW. If you need a spacious, tech-heavy 7-seater that makes a massive statement, the Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift is undoubtedly the most exciting SUV launch of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift coming to India in 2026?
Yes, the fifth-generation Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift is expected to launch in India by mid-2026, positioned as a premium flagship above the Tucson.
2. Does the 2026 model have a 7-seater option?
Absolutely. The Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift is available in both a 6-seater configuration with luxurious captain’s chairs and a traditional 7-seater bench layout.
3. What is the benefit of the new 8-speed transmission?
The new 8-speed torque-converter automatic in the Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift provides smoother gear shifts and better reliability compared to the previous dual-clutch transmission (DCT).
4. How much boot space does it offer?
With all seats folded, the Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift offers a massive 725+ liters of space. Even with the third row up, it provides enough room for a few grocery bags.
5. What is the expected mileage of the Hybrid variant?
The Hybrid version of the Hyundai Santa-Fe Facelift is expected to deliver a real-world fuel efficiency of around 15-17 kmpl, which is excellent for a vehicle of this size.