These are the first uncamouflaged shots of the 2013 Hyundai iX45 (has finally been spotted. It will make its public debut at the New York auto show in April, and will be released in South Africa in the first quarter of 2013. As this model is a replacement in India, Hyundai India will have to introduce the all-new Santa Fe late sometime in 2013.
The front styling shows a distinct family resemblance to the new i40, the i30 hatchback and the Veloster, with a chunky hexagonal grille full of horizontal chromed slats, and of course, the fashionable LED headlights, not unlike those on the upcoming Genesis coupé. Rumour also has it that the Santa Fe would be one of the last models to get the Fluidic make-over from Hyundai.
The rear end gets an even more kicked-up rear quarter window, and tapered LED tail-lights that could have come from the Audi Q-series parts bin, over dual chromed tailpipes.
Under the hood though, things remain the same. The Santa Fe will be powered by the same 2.2 litre CRDi diesel engine that produces 197 PS of power at 3800 RPM and 421 Nm of torque at 1800 RPM. The engine is mated to a 6 speed manual or automatic gearbox.
The company also plans to start local assembly of the Santa Fe to keep the costs low. This is a welcome move by the company judging by the fact that many companies are foraying into the SUV segment.
Also see – Spied – Hyundai i20 facelift almost undisguised!
Source – Burlcarapps
