2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Modestly Refreshed in Australia

While Hyundai's engineers are working on the development of the next generation of the Santa Fe, which may carry the iX45 moniker in select regions, the Korea firm is presenting a 2012 model year version of the crossover with some very subtle cosmetic and equipment upgrades in Australia.

On the outside, the 2012MY Santa Fe gains a front skid plate with matching rear skid plate, both painted in silver, and a chrome tailgate garnish. In addition, on the Elite and Highlander trim models, the roof racks and the fog lamp surrounds are now finished in a black piano color, while the Highlander also gets perforated leather seats and redesigned 18-inch alloy wheels.

The discrete styling changes are accompanied by the addition of the Down-Hill Brake Control (DBC), which helps the driver to maintain vehicle control on steep downhill descent, on all versions sans the entry SLX manual.

And that about sums up all the miniscule changes to the Australian market 2012MY Santa Fe which continues with two powertrain options, the 2.2-litre CRDi diesel engine with all-wheel drive, and the 3.5-litre V6 Lambda petrol engine with front-wheel drive only.

There are no changes in pricing with the 3.5L FWD starting from AU$36,990 and the 2.2L AWD diesel from AU$37,990.