Added safety for Hyundai Santa Fe

Minor upgrades have been announced for the Hyundai Santa Fe large SUV, which was renewed only last year.

From this month, MY20 Santa Fe models will come equipped with Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) – a system that uses sensors in the roof to detect movement (from a human or pet for example) in the rear seats.

It reminds the driver with a message on the dash to check the rear seats before leaving the vehicle. The car alarm will sound if movement is detected in the vehicle once the driver has locked and walked away from it.

Until now, Rear Occupant Alert has been reserved for higher grade Santa Fe variants. Now all models including the entry-level Active variant will get the same tech.

Meantime, flagship Highlander variants receive new 19-inch alloy wheels to replace the current twin-spoke design. The refreshed wheels sport a machined face that Hyundai says provides a “more sophisticated and cutting edge look to the side profile”.

Pricing for the seven-seat Santa Fe range remains unchanged, starting from $43,000 (plus ORCs) for the base Active.

Powertrain options also remain the same, with the choice of a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine or slightly more powerful 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel – both matched to automatic transmissions (six- and eight-speed respectively) and all-wheel drive.

How much does the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe cost?
Active (petrol) – $43,000
Active (diesel) – $46,000
Elite (diesel) – $54,000
Highlander (diesel) – $60,500
Metallic Paint – $695
Beige/Burgundy leather – $295
* Prices exclude on-road costs