Hyundai Motor Philippines (HMPH) surprised those who attended its latest round of the Hyundai Mobility Experience. It brought the new Santa Fe GL variant that’s priced at just P1,998,000. This figure makes the GL the new entry-level variant for the fifth generation of this 7-seat SUV, which locally debuted early last year.
Externally, this new Santa Fe GL still flaunts a distinctive styling that made its upper variants an eye-catcher on the road. Heading the way is a pair of horizontal H-type LED headlights, while the same H pattern is seen for the LED tail lights in back. The GL rolls with a set of 20-inch alloy wheels, wrapped in 255/45 E20 rubbers.
Inside, the new Hyundai Santa Fe GL offers a 12.3-inch infotainment display system.
At the center is an ergonomic console fitted with premium goodies. These include a wireless charging system for smart devices, and a bi-directional center storage box which can be conveniently opened and closed by both the driver and front passenger.
At the back, the GL offers around 1,006L of cargo space, which is made more accessible via power-assisted tailgate. This is a handy feature for storing cargo more easily without physically lifting the tailgate.
HMPH didn’t specify more things about this new Santa Fe GL. But based on the pricing, it sits below the 2.5 GLS 8AT 2WD variant, which is priced at P2,410,000 as of this writing. This means the GL runs with the same powertrain found in the GLS, that being the non-turbo 2.5L gasoline motor with 194 hp and 246 Nm of torque on tap, and an 8-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels.
