The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe is set to undergo a significant transformation, bidding farewell to its controversial tail-light design. Spied once again, the upcoming model promises a fresh and more conventional look, departing from the boxy styling of its current fifth-generation iteration introduced in Australia in 2024. With narrower headlights and a simpler front grille and bumper, the Santa Fe will embrace a more streamlined aesthetic. The three-row SUV will also adopt vertical brake lights connected by a horizontal light bar, replacing its current distinctive, low-set tail-lights. Despite these changes, the update will retain the core shape and sharp window lines of the current model, drawing inspiration from the Art of Steel design language introduced on the second-generation Nexo mid-size hydrogen fuel-cell SUV. This design theme will extend to other models, including the smaller Kona SUV, which was recently spotted testing ahead of its expected 2028 arrival. Hyundai's commitment to aligning exterior styling across all models while preserving individual nameplate identities is evident. The facelifted Santa Fe will also bring significant cabin changes, featuring a larger center screen running Hyundai's new-generation Android Automotive-based 'Pleos' operating system. Announced in 2025, Pleos is set to roll out to 20 million vehicles across Hyundai and its luxury Genesis brand by 2030, with its debut expected in the next i30 and Tucson around the same time as the updated Santa Fe. Powertrains are anticipated to remain unchanged, with the potential addition of a new extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) option, not confirmed for Australia. The current local lineup offers a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder hybrid with a six-speed automatic and a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). While the eight-speed transmission may be replaced with a conventional automatic in some countries due to customer complaints, Hyundai Australia has no plans to make this change in local models. The lineup of the larger Palisade in Australia will also expand with new entry-level and range-topping model grades as part of a revitalized lineup in the second half of 2026. But here's where it gets controversial... The Santa Fe's design changes may spark differing opinions, and we want to hear from you! Do you agree or disagree with the new look? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
