Hyundai Santa Fe Facelift Spied with Sleek New Design
Recently, our colleagues at ShortsCar shared a spy photo of the Hyundai Santa Fe facelift, showcasing its main headlights and DRL LED lights. The image confirms our previous renderings and reveals a significant design overhaul. The new Santa Fe will ditch its characteristic “H” headlights for a wider, more horizontal design that stretches from side to side.
A New Styling Direction: From Polarizing to Polished
The facelifted Santa Fe is poised to undergo one of the most radical mid-cycle design updates in Hyundai’s recent history. Based on spy shots and renderings, the SUV will adopt Hyundai’s latest “Art of Steel” design language, first introduced on the next-generation NEXO. The new design promises to give the Santa Fe a premium SUV appearance, aligning it with the Tucson and Palisade.
Key Design Changes
- Redesigned front fascia: Slimmer headlights and side-mounted DRLs replace the current chunky setup.
- Refined four-bar grille: Cleaner integration and a less rugged look.
- Sleeker body sides: Horizontal molding emphasizes width instead of bulk.
- Vertical taillights: Linked by a full-width horizontal brake light bar, with a relocated license plate for a more upscale feel.
- Matte-finished skid plate and gloss-black trim accents: Balancing ruggedness and sophistication.
The overall effect is a less boxy, more aerodynamic stance, giving the Santa Fe a premium SUV appearance.
Why the Design Change Matters
The current Santa Fe’s rugged design was meant to differentiate it in a crowded midsize SUV market. However, it alienated buyers who preferred sleeker designs. With sales dropping steadily, the facelift represents a critical chance for Hyundai to win back customers. By aligning the Santa Fe with Hyundai’s modern design philosophy, the facelift should broaden its appeal, especially among families and urban drivers.
Mechanical Upgrade: Transmission Fix
Alongside the design refresh, Hyundai confirmed a major mechanical upgrade: all 2.5-liter turbo Santa Fe models will drop the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) in favor of a torque-converter automatic transmission. This move addresses consumer complaints about jerky low-speed driving and clunky shifts. The hybrid Santa Fe will continue with its 1.6-liter turbo engine and smooth six-speed automatic.
Release Timeline
The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Facelift is expected to debut in late 2026 or early 2027, featuring the new torque-converter automatic and refreshed styling.
