FACT spent a full day in the all-new SANTA FE MX5, a sizeable and comfy family SUV jam-packed with thoughtful features.

This month we were invited by the team at Hyundai Skyline Automotive to test drive the all-new 2024 SANTA FE MX5. Having already heard good things about this adventurous, large family SUV featuring Hyundai’s innovative design approach and advanced technology, we couldn’t have been happier to accept.

Refined & Robust Exterior

As we began our exterior inspection of the car, our first impression was that Hyundai had successfully blended aesthetics with everyday functionality. We were also impressed at how this ultra-modern-looking machine manages to appear bold and elegant at the same time.

This car has an almost retro-like boxy design with sharp edges and a flat, upright front end that adds to its sturdy demeanour.

From front on, this classy-looking SUV exhibits a clear and sculpted appearance accentuated by a horizontal LED light bar with H-shaped front signature lights on either side. A dark chrome front grille and the now iconic H badge in black add further touches of class to an already stylish face.

Shifting our attention to the flanks, we took in the bridge-type roof rack that enables transporting of extra or extra-large goods. A hidden assist handle has been incorporated into the design to provide easier access to the roof. We felt the longer wheelbase of this jumbo SUV is enhanced by the stylish 21-inch alloy wheels. At the back end, Hyundai’s latest release also features H-shaped lights and one of the largest tailgates in the brand’s lineup, specifically designed to make life all the easier for owners.

Stylish & Spacious Interior

Slipping into the front, we noted the convenience of the power-adjustable driver and passenger memory seats and the commanding position from which to view the road ahead. These seats are ventilated, meaning a far better experience during the hot summer months.

We appreciated the unique touch on the steering wheel where four dots, representing the letter ‘H’ in Morse code, replace the traditional Hyundai logo.

Before setting off, we took our time taking in the well-balanced interior of our Calligraphy trim level model that exuded a calming and relaxing ambience, along with an exceptional level of comfort throughout.

The interior harmonised perfectly with the exterior, featuring signature H-Light-shaped elements across the dashboard and air vents.

The thoughtfully designed cabin came outfitted with soft-touch plastics, premium Nappa leather and a range of convenient gadgets.

Further, the increased cabin size of this seven-seater family SUV means plenty of seating options, all of which offer sufficient room for heads, shoulders, knees and feet.

The included dual-tint sunroof meant an abundance of natural light in the cabin that added to the uplifting and spacious feel.

Throughout the day, we discovered a variety of storage spaces whose locations were meticulously selected to provide extra convenience while on the move.

One of our favourite discoveries was the spacious, terrace-like space provided by the wide tailgate. When open, this area would be perfect for enjoying outdoor activities or simply sitting and taking in the views. Fully foldable second and third-row seats allow for maximum utilisation of this space.

Modern Tech & Infotainment

Hyundai has equipped its latest release with a wide range of convenience features. A novel inclusion are the dual wireless phone charging trays in the massive centre console. This is also a bilateral multi-console, so it can be opened on either side, allowing for easy access for both front and second-row occupants. For us, the most innovative tech feature of the MX5 had to be the first-of-its-kind UV-C sterilisation tray. This all-new inclusion quickly and easily sterilises frequently used items such as keys, mobile phones, wallets and other objects.

To provide further convenience and focus, Hyundai has included a Digital Centre Mirror (DCM) that acts as an additional rearview mirror, providing a brighter view at night, along with a Head-Up Display (HUD) that projects essential information onto the windshield, allowing drivers to stay focused.

Another of our must-mention features is the impressive 12-speaker premium Bose sound system with CenterPoint 360 technology that provided an immersive audio experience, no matter where we sat in the vehicle.

As this is the Middle East, it would be remiss of us not to mention the dual full auto air conditioner that kept us cool and comfortable throughout the day.

Lastly, but certainly not least, the dashboard features a panoramic display that merges two 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and the instrument cluster into a single long panel.

This design not only enhances the modern feel of the cabin but also contributes to a sense of spaciousness. We found the infotainment system precise and user-friendly.

Powerful & Precise Performance & Protection

Finally, it was time to get out onto the roads.

Our MX5 test-drive model housed a capable, four-cylinder, 2.5 T-GDI engine coupled with an 8DCT transmission. This meant a more than adequate 277hp and 246Nm of torque to play with. For a vehicle of this size, we were satisfied with its acceleration capabilities. Despite seeming slightly slow for quick bursts, once the SANTA FE got going, it proved more than capable of reaching motorway speeds.

“The thoughtfully designed cabin is outfitted with soft-touch plastics, premium Nappa leather and a range of convenient gadgets.”

As we made our way around the city, we commented positively on the SUV’s balance and suspension, along with the responsive nature of the braking system.

Cruising around in what we can only describe as ultimate comfort and style, the vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system ensured a smooth and safe driving experience throughout the day as it continuously distributed power to the front and rear wheels, according to driving conditions.

Safety and assistance-wise, Hyundai has ensured the MX5 is jam-packed with everything needed to keep you and your loved ones safe and secure.

The SANTA FE features an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electric Stability Control (ESC), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), front and rear disc brakes, a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Front & Rear Parking Distance Warning, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist (rear), Blind Spot Warning, Lane Follow Assist (LFA), Forward Collision Avoidance, Smart Cruise Control, Remote Parking Assist, an Around View Monitor and 10 airbags, amongst others. No matter where we drove, we always felt relaxed and confident, knowing we were in safe hands.

By the time we found ourselves back at base, it was clear that the SANTA FE MX5 was an ideal vehicle for both day-to-day driving and extended road trips. We only wish we had more time to spend in this oasis on wheels.

Our Verdict

The all-new Hyundai SANTA FE MX5 is beautiful to look at inside and out and offers a wide range of convenience-based features and technology, along with a safe and smooth driving experience. ✤

GO: CALL 800 0231 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE.