Second upgrade for Hyundai Santa Fe

Hyundai has released details of its 2009 model year Santa Fe. The latest model follows hot on the heels of an earlier upgrade -- the 2008.5 upgrade -- the Carsales Network reported back in July (more here).

For the time being, the 3.3-litre front-wheel drive Santa Fe continues without change, but the 2.7-litre petrol V6 and 2.2-litre turbodiesel variants are now available with a revised specification and mildly facelifted looks.

Added safety for the SUV derives from standard stability control, active head restraints for the front seats and side curtain airbags for the revised variants. The Santa Fe was already equipped with dual front airbags and side-impact airbags to protect the thorax of front-seat occupants. Additional side-impact head-protecting airbags for front and second-row seats are now replaced by the side curtains which protect the head from injury for occupants in all three rows of seats (for seven-seat models).

The cosmetic changes to the '09 Santa Fe include a revised chrome grille and indicators integrated within the external mirror shells.

Hyundai designers have added the HALO (Hyundai Active Locking Operation) system for security and an upgraded audio system with USB input and iPod compatibility. Styling of the interior has been improved with a high-gloss black finish for the door trims, centre fascia and transmission plinth in the centre console.

For the new upgrade, Hyundai has introduced the Trek 'n' Tow kit, which improves towball load capacity from 150kg to 180kg and provides raised ride height by 20mm for heavier duty offroad work and towing, through four new springs and two dampers for the rear, with revised rear bumpstops.

Prices of the Santa Fe range have not changed and Hyundai offers the car with a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty.

Diesel versions of the 2009 Santa Fe have been sampled by the Carsales Network and a launch review for this impressive model update will be published shortly.

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