Updated Look: Hyundai Teases 2027 Santa Fe Facelift with Radical Redesign
Thanks to our partners at Gotcha Cars, we’re unveiling a fresh rendering of Hyundai’s 2027 Santa Fe Facelift, showcasing its dramatic evolution based on recent spy shots. The fifth-generation Santa Fe (MX5), launched in 2023, fell short of sales targets despite its critical role in Hyundai’s SUV lineup. Does this overhaul address its past shortcomings?
From Bold to Refined: A Design Revolution
Hyundai’s facelifted Santa Fe is poised for one of the brand’s most aggressive mid-cycle transformations, adopting the new “Art of Steel” design language debuted on the next-gen NEXO. Spy shots reveal these key upgrades:
- Sleeker Front End: Slimmer headlights and vertical DRLs replace the blockish current design.
- Elegant Grille: A refined four-bar grille replaces the rugged Land Rover-inspired look.
- Streamlined Profile: Horizontal side moldings emphasize width over bulk.
- Modern Rear: Vertical taillights bridged by a full-width LED light bar, with a relocated license plate for premium appeal.
- Sophisticated Accents: Matte-finish skid plate and gloss-black trim blur ruggedness and luxury.
The result? A lower, more aerodynamic silhouette that aligns the Santa Fe with Hyundai’s Tucson and Palisade, boosting its premium SUV credentials.
Why This Redesign Matters
Hyundai’s original rugged styling aimed to differentiate the Santa Fe but alienated buyers drawn to sleeker rivals like the Kia Sorento and Toyota Highlander. With sales lagging into 2025—even post-hybrid launch—this facelift is Hyundai’s bid to reclaim suburban families and style-focused urban drivers.
Under the Hood: Fixing the Flaws
Hyundai addresses a major pain point: all 2.5L turbo models will swap the glitchy eight-speed DCT for a smoother torque-converter automatic. This follows years of complaints about jerky shifts and reliability issues. The update extends to the mechanically similar Santa Cruz, while the hybrid retains its trusted 1.6L turbo + six-speed automatic combo.
Launch Timeline
Mark your calendars: The 2027 Santa Fe Facelift arrives in late 2026 or early 2027, marrying its bold new look with critical mechanical upgrades.
