Hyundai Unveils Six/Seven-Passenger Santa Fe, Veloster Convertible Concept at the 2012 LA Auto Show
- Hyundai broadens CUV choices, adding a six/seven-passenger version Santa Fe
- New version has bolder designs, offering enhanced practicality and power
- Hyundai also showcases multifunctional and stylish Veloster C3 Roll Top concept
Nov. 28, 2012 - Hyundai Motor Company, the fastest-growing automaker by brand, today staged a world premiere of the production version of its three-row, six/seven-passenger Santa Fe at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. By adding the new variant, Hyundai aims to deliever its ‘Modern Premium’ values to more family-oriented customers.
Based on the two-row, five-passenger Santa Fe that first made its world debut at the 2012 New York International Auto Show in April, the six/seven-passenger Santa Fe adds a third row to meet the needs of customers seeking more space. In addition, Hyundai’s new thinking further widens customers’ choices by allowing them to choose two separated seats in the second row, a rare option in its segment. Santa Fe customers worldwide will now have a choice between five, six and seven-seat models.
The new version, also known as the Long Wheelbase (LWB) Santa Fe, rides on a 2,800mm wheelbase, which is 100mm longer than the five-seater. Its overall length is 215mm longer at 4,905mm, while its overall width of 1,885 is slightly wider (5mm) compared to the five-seater. The LWB Santa Fe’s overall height is 10mm higher than the five-seater, at 1,690mm.
The longer wheelbase and efficient interior design offers more cabin room than major comepetitors, providing maximum comfort for family-oriented customers. Seating utility is also improved, due to a standard 40:20:40 folding rear seat back. This seat back is perfect for seating five passengers comfortably or accommodating four passengers, plus long items like skis, golf clubs, snowboards or surfboards. A 50:50 split third row can be folded flat for bigger cargo room.
The exterior design of the new version is also bolder and more voluminous. Its hexagonal radiator grille is wider with an additional bar, while the front fog lamps, separated from the bumper, are larger. The signature differentiating element between the five-seater and the six/seven-seater is the side view daylight opening (side window shape) - the larger Santa Fe features a shape that highlights the increased passenger and cargo room behind the third-row seat. The 18-inch alloy wheels, dual muffler and rear combination lamps complete a distinguished look.
To match its more aggressive and bolder appearance, the LWB Santa Fe boasts a more powerful performance as well. The LWB Santa Fe is equipped with the 3.3 liter Lambda GDI engine, delivering a maximum output of 294ps and maximum torque of 34.8 kg•m. The engine is mated to Hyundai’s six-speed automatic transmission. *
* This is limited to the North American market only. Specs can vary depending on markets.
A series of Hyundai’s advanced safety and convenient features are applied to maximize customers’ satisfaction. To name a few, power tailgates, panoramic sunroof, a seven-airbag system, Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system and flex steering (Driver Selectable Steering Mode) are available.
The LWB Santa Fe is scheduled to hit showrooms in the U.S. early next year, strengthening Hyundai’s presence in the midsize CUV segment. The names of the two Santa Fes may be slightly differentiated by region depending on local customers’ preferences. In the U.S., the five-seater Santa Fe is badged as the Santa Fe Sport, while the LWB version is called Santa Fe.
Veloster C3 Roll Top Concept
Expanding on the qualities that have made the Veloster a sales success, the C3 (which stands for Convertible 3-door) combines open-air freedom with the style of a coupe and the functionality of a tailgate. The Veloster’s efficient coupe design with hidden passenger-side third door introduces an innovative dual-function roll top and tailgate, adding unique utility to a convertible.
“We were inspired by the proverb ‘A rolling stone gathers no moss,” said Chris Chapman, chief designer, Hyundai Design North America. “The Veloster C3 Roll Top concept offers the ‘no strings attached’ freedom of a roll top convertible and customizable utility that fits an everyday to a play day dual lifestyle.”
Designed by Hyundai Design North America, the Veloster C3 Roll Top concept offers a distinctive canvas roof that opens to the rear or windshield of the vehicle. The cleverly designed dual-function power-retractable roof combined with the tailgate gives the C3 a dual personality.
* Please refer to Hyundai Motor America’s website (www.hyundainews.com) for more details about the vehicles and the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.
About Hyundai Motor
Established in 1967, Hyundai Motor Co. has grown into the Hyundai Motor Group, with more than two dozen auto-related subsidiaries and affiliates. Hyundai Motor -- which has seven manufacturing bases outside of South Korea including Brazil, China, the Czech Republic, India, Russia, Turkey and the U.S. -- sold 4.06 million vehicles globally in 2011. Hyundai Motor, which employs over 80,000 worldwide, offers a full line-up of products including small to large passenger vehicles, SUVs and commercial vehicles. Further information about Hyundai Motor and its products is available at www.hyundai.com.
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