Driving Hyundai’s latest Sante Fe Hybrid – behind the wheel noticeably larger to
its predecessor, now squarer edged, a very roomy seven-seater with exceptional
cargo space but if anything it looks a little tail heavy due to an enlarged tailgate.
This latest Hyundai Sante Fe initially available as a 1.6-litre turbo petrol hybrid six
speed automatic in a base model, mid-spec Elite and top-grade Calligraphy - and
depending on model, front or all-wheel drive. A 2.5-litre pure petrol 8-speed
automatic arrives late this year. I tested the Elite all-wheel drive, now $2,000
dearer at $65,000 plus on-road costs. The hybrid power trains 172kW of power,
367Nm of torque more than adequate – providing excellent fuel economy – I
managed 7.7L./100km around town and on 91 grade petrol. Economy aided by
three levels of regenerative braking and in its highest level you hardly need to
touch the brakes. Biggest annoyance the speed limit warning and driver attention
monitor – both features need more development and refinement and are just plain
annoying and of no real driver benefit. They can be switched off but every time
you start the car they renew. Like a lot of the new Chinese SUV’s these warning
chimes are distractive, and a turn off to most drivers. I’m David Berthon

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