Author: Ralph Morton

THIS is the face of the brand new Santa Fe Hyundai large SUV, joining a seeming avalanche of new models from the Hyundai brand.

We’ve always thought that the existing Santa Fe was an excellent SUV if a little ho-hum in its styling.

The third generation Santa Fe, due to be unveiled at the New York International Auto Show in early April, changes all that with its ‘Storm Edge’ styling.

Based on Hyundai’s ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ design language, the new Santa Fe adopts its own design dynamic called ‘Storm Edge’ which, says Hyundai, captures the strong and dynamic images created by nature during the formation of a storm.

The Santa Fe’s Storm Edge design language keeps the hexagonal grille – a key design cue of the Hyundai family look – and adds features such as a strong rising side crease that looks more aerodynamic and premium.

No business car news yet on engines, but are likely to include Hyundai’s current 177PS 2.0-litre turbo diesel and the firm’s low emission Blue Drive technology. Hyundai says core concepts for the all-new Santa Fe include refinement, smartness and practicality.

First launched in 2000, this latest Santa Fe – codenamed DM during its development – is the third generation model in the range.

At the recent Geneva show, Hyundai launched the new i20 supermini, i30 compact estate, and turbocharged Veloster Coupe, increasing the model choice available to both the business driver and the company car manager.