India-bound 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe (facelift) - Rendering

Will be the first mass production hybrid SUV for Hyundai.

Hyundai is working on a facelift for the Santa Fe SUV that would see the light of day later this year globally. Based on latest spyshots and reports, KKS Studio has rendered the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe, which integrates the reported changes with the current design.

Exterior wise, the Hyundai Santa Fe could borrow small design cues from the new Tucson, such as an updated grille and exhaust tips. Other changes include new LED front and rear lights, and a new alloy wheel design.

According to reports, the biggest change in store for Hyundai's full-size SUV is the introduction of a hybrid variant. Called as the "e-4WD", the electric motors in the hybrid system will drive the rear wheels whereas the petrol motor will power the front wheels. It could also feature regenerative braking for easy battery charging on-the-go.

The current engine lineup will be retained, albeit upgraded (reportedly) for lower CO2 emissions and increased efficiency.

Also Read: 2015 Hyundai Elantra launched at INR 14.13 lakhs

Averaging sales of about 125 units a month, the Hyundai Santa Fe is more of an image builder rather than a hot seller for Hyundai India. Like the current model, the facelifted Santa Fe will follow the CKD route when it arrives in India with assembly taking place in Chennai.

Hyundai Santa Fe (current model) - Image Gallery

[Source: KKS Studio]