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The new generation of the popular crossover has been launched last year and we can see all kinds of novelties. There is a new styling, significantly improved comfort and ride quality and many other interesting things. On the other side, the thing that bothers many lovers of this model is that the new model is currently available only as a five-seater. However, this could change in the next year, as some insiders claim the Korean manufacturer is working on a three-row version as well.
With the introduction of the new Palisade, a three-row Santa Fe somehow became irrelevant. However, the current situation on the market, where it’s all about crossovers keeps the question about the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe 3-row model legal. Simply, not all drivers want a too large and quite expensive Palisade, which is a great SUV but also too big for most drivers that used on Santa Fe’s maneuverability and simplicity.
Therefore, rumors about this version appeared. However, keep in mind that the company is still quiet on this matter. In our opinion, there is a big question mark behind this model, so take the following paragraphs with a huge reserve.
What would 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe 3-Row look like?
The first thing that comes to mind is the size. The standard 2-row Santa features less than 109 inches in wheelbase, which is somewhere between compact and mid-size segments by today’s standards. On the other side, the Palisade is good for more than 114 inches, so there is an obvious gap between the two models.
That leaves enough space for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe 3-row model, which would feature a slightly stretched wheelbase and a little bit longer rear overhang. In terms of the styling and overall look, we have no doubt that the new model would keep the same front face, while the only difference would be in a slightly different rear end. Would there be a couple of exclusive details, it’s hard to say at the moment.
Interior
On the other side, the three-row model would definitely feature more space on the inside. The standard 2-row model already features a pretty generous amount of legroom. With more than 44 inches of legroom in the first and more than 40 inches in the second row, this is actually one of the most generous models in the class. On the other side, the cargo area is pretty tight, so there is not much room for the third row, even with a stretched wheelbase. Therefore, the additional third row definitely wouldn’t be too comfortable, while the cargo volume with all seats in function would be minimal.
On the other side, the dashboard design and overall layout would definitely remain the same. The recent redesign has brought a significant improvement in terms of interior quality. Also, we particularly like pretty good sound insulation at higher speeds.
Features
We presume that the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe 3-row model would come with the same trim level organization as the current 2-row version. This means that the list of standard equipment would probably remain pretty much the same as for the current model, which comes standard with tech goodies like a 7-inch display, Bluetooth, four USB ports, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. In higher trims, you may count on things like multi-zone climate control, satellite radio, HD Radio, an 8-inch touch screen, navigation, wireless device charging, and a panoramic sunroof etc.
In terms of safety, all models currently come standard with things like a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, driver drowsiness monitoring, and lane keep assist. In higher trims, you can also get goodies like parking sensors, a head-up display, a surround-view parking camera, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert.
2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Engines
When it comes to the powertrain, we definitely don’t expect to see the base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine in the offer. Instead, base models should come with the 2.0-liter turbo-four, which delivers around 235 horsepower. This engine delivers pretty good driving dynamics and pretty respectable fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Still, we would also like to see something more powerful in the offer, so a V6 option also sounds quite possible. It could easily be a new 3.8-liter V6 from the Palisade, which delivers 291 horsepower and ensures some pretty impressive driving dynamics.
2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Release Date and Price
The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe 3-row model is just a rumor at the moment, so we won’t speculate about the possible price and launch date. On the other side, the standard 2-row model will come in a typical time of year, sometime in the last quarter of 2020, with the base price around 26.500 dollars.
