New York 2012: Hyundai Santa Fe

Hyundai has finally taken the wraps off the all-new Santa Fe, which apparently will come as two different models: a five-seater dubbed as the Santa Fe Sport and a long wheelbase (LWB) seven-seater known simply as the Santa Fe.

Though the all-new, third-generation model continues Hyundai's "Fluidic Sculpture" design language, the Korean carmaker also introduced its new "Storm Edge" design concept on the vehicle to give it "the impression of irrepressible motion." Helping to create the illusion of constant motion to the all-new Santa Fe are its three-bar hexagonal front grille, LED accents, low stance, rising beltline, black trimmed roof rails and wraparound taillights. Design elements also include standard chrome grille and door handle accents, body-color mirrors, rear spoiler, aggressive exhaust outlets as well as lower bumpers, wheel arches and door trim in contrasting paints.

Marking the difference between the two models are the windows aft of the C-pillars as the larger Santa Fe has a longer greenhouse to accommodate the increased passenger and cargo room. This gives it a length of 4,905mm, 216mm more than the Santa Fe Sport. The LWB Santa Fe also has its own character lines from the B-pillar and back, a different grille design, 18-inch Euroflange alloy wheels, dual exhaust tips and a flush-mounted tow hitch design.

Inside, both Santa Fe models feature the same flowing interior look designed for passenger functionality and comfort. From the heated rear seats and available eight-way power driver seat to a standard 40:20:40 folding rear seat back, both models boast flexibility and a pleasant cabin for all its occupants. Both models that come with cloth seats also receive as standard a seat fabric treatment that provides soil-resistant, anti-odor and anti-static properties for added longevity and livability. Special care and attention also went into other interior details, such as an optional panoramic sunroof and a premium window switch trim. For the Santa Fe, second-row air-condition controls and vents keep the passengers comfortable, while the 50:50 split-folding third-row bench seat increases the vehicle's cargo-carrying capacity.

The two Santa Fe models come with three different engines. The Santa Fe Sport is equipped with either a 2.4-liter Gasoline Direct Engine (GDI) mill that has an output of 190hp or a turbocharged 2.0-liter GDI powerplant that produces 264hp. The LWB Santa Fe, meanwhile, is propelled by the same 3.3-liter, 293hp V6 engine as the Azera sedan. All three engines will be paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic manual control.

According to Hyundai, the Santa Fe Sport will go on sale later this year, while the LWB Santa Fe is scheduled to reach showrooms by January 2013.