Hyundai's design language is one of the most talked-about in the current automotive industry. Some find its style too extreme or divisive, while others appreciate the brand's innovative and forward-thinking approach. The Santa Fe is among the models with this design.

Recent leaked videos and images of the upcoming Santa Fe refresh, shared by Korean Car Blog, offer initial clues about Hyundai's evolving design language. Following the Tucson, which was one of the first models to adopt Hyundai's new design, the Santa Fe appears to be next in line for a similar styling update.

A front-end view reveals the new design style of the refreshed Santa Fe (left) compared to the current model. Photo: KCB, Hyundai.

Hyundai seems to be moving away from its distinctive H-shaped daytime running lights (DRL) towards a more integrated design. A noticeable change is the DRL strip, which now runs vertically along the outer edge of the headlight cluster, reminiscent of the DRL design found on the new Palisade and Tucson.

Adjacent to the vertical DRL strip are compact, horizontal rectangular led projector headlights with clear lenses, accented by a body-colored trim bar above.

Above the headlights is what appears to be a horizontally designed grille. When the current generation Santa Fe launched, many customers were indifferent to its styling. The new images suggest the updated version aims to appeal to a broader audience. The upper grille transitions from the current mesh pattern to layered horizontal slats with chrome accents, creating a more substantial appearance.

The front bumper features sharp geometric cuts, combining glossy black paint with satin-trimmed accents; parking sensors are neatly integrated onto a flat, beveled surface.

The Santa Fe refresh will not only update its exterior but also bring technical improvements. Hyundai is preparing to equip the Santa Fe with a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission, responding to customer feedback regarding the current dual-clutch transmission.

The design of the current Santa Fe has been controversial, particularly its H-shaped headlight style. Photo: Hyundai.

The 2027 Santa Fe update extends beyond the exterior, introducing significant mechanical and electrified powertrain changes.

Addressing extensive user feedback regarding the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) on the current 2.5 Turbo engine at low speeds, Hyundai plans to switch to a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission for smoother daily driving.

The popular 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrain, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, will be retained, featuring minor software and energy efficiency refinements.

Recent test images of the MX5a EREV prototype confirm that Hyundai is preparing to launch an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) version, boasting a combined range of over 900 km.

The updated 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe is expected to make its global debut in Korea in late 2026, followed by distribution in North America and Europe during the first half of 2027.

My Anh