Hyundai teases new 2012 Santa Fe SUV

Hyundai has revealed initial teaser shots of an all-new Santa Fe SUV. Details of the new vehicle are scarce, but importantly it’s the first 4×4 to exhibit the future design direction for the Korean firm’s off-roaders.

Hyundai is calling the new look ‘Storm Edge’ styling. An evolution of the company’s current ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ design principles, it gives the new Santa Fe a much more chunky and rugged appearance than the similarly proportioned but smaller Hyundai ix35 crossover.

First Drive: Hyundai ix35 (2010 onwards)

New Hyundai i-oniq at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show

The trademark hexagonal front grille and intricate ‘jewel-like’ headlights remain, retaining a relationship to the rest of Hyundai’s range, while other details are reminiscent of Hyundai’s Geneva 2012 show car, the i-oniq.

Beyond the looks, Hyundai says ‘Refinement, Smartness and Practicality’ are the guiding elements behind the new Santa Fe’s creation, as it aims to take the vehicle further upmarket.

As such, expect perceived interior quality to be improved over the current model, as well as ride comfort, noise levels and fuel economy.

The all-new Hyundai Santa Fe debuts at the 2012 New York International Auto Show in early April. No word on the engines that will power the new car as yet, but expect more details and information after the car is unveiled next month.

First Drive: Hyundai ix35 (2010 onwards)

New Hyundai i-oniq at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show

New Hyundai i-oniq range extender concept