On October 25, a set of road test images of the mid-cycle facelifted fifth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe was leaked online. The car is expected to be unveiled at the end of 2026 and will be released as the 2027 model.
In terms of exterior design, the leaked road test images show that Hyundai has removed the signature H-shaped light clusters from the front and rear, replacing them with more traditional vertical high-position light strips. The media speculates that Hyundai might adjust one of the key selling points of the Santa Fe—its extremely wide rear trunk opening.
Hyundai has also redesigned the front grille, making it more subdued and mainstream compared to the current model’s bold and unique styling. The prototype does not feature a roof rack, giving the roofline a cleaner look.
Inside, the high-spec test vehicle spotted in the spy shots is equipped with a new square-shaped steering wheel. More notably, the new model has abandoned the current horizontal integrated screen setup (which combines the instrument cluster and the center display) in favor of a much smaller, standalone center screen. However, due to the camouflage, it is still unclear whether there is a small digital instrument cluster hidden behind the steering wheel.
In terms of powertrain, the test car features fuel filler caps on both sides, which strongly suggests that the new car will offer plug-in hybrid functionality. Additionally, the newly arranged exhaust muffler is likely to free up space for a battery pack.
Based on these clues, the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe is highly likely to feature a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system, and it could even become Hyundai’s first extended-range electric vehicle (EREV).
