22:30 17-10-2025

Hyundai Santa Fe facelift spied with PLEOS display and new torque-converter automatic

Fresh spy shots of the Hyundai Santa Fe facelift without camouflage spotlight the headline change: a new PLEOS display positioned at the center of the dash. The photo was published by HealerTV journalists, who showed a fully updated interior that looks noticeably more modern and closer in spirit to the flagship Palisade. At first glance, the layout reads more cohesive and upscale.

The refreshed Santa Fe is set to be one of Hyundai’s most radical facelifts in recent years. The SUV will adopt the new “Art of Steel” design language, first shown on the next-generation NEXO. Visually, it shifts toward a more streamlined and elegant look: slim headlights, a horizontal grille, matte cladding, and glossy accents give the crossover a premium edge.

A key technical change is also in store: all versions with the 2.5-liter turbo engine will abandon the problematic 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. In its place comes a conventional torque-converter automatic, a switch aimed at improving smoothness and reliability. It’s the kind of hardware change that tends to matter more in everyday driving than any styling tweak.

The Santa Fe Hybrid will retain its 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and six-speed gearbox. According to Hyundai’s plan, the updated Santa Fe is scheduled to reach the market in late 2026 or early 2027.

The company expects that a more refined design and the elimination of technical issues will help the crossover win back buyers who drifted away due to the previous model’s polarizing styling and troublesome transmission. Judging by the direction, the update targets the right pain points.