2024 Hyundai Santa Fe -- Open for More

LOS ANGELES -- No, we haven't turned into a late-night infomercial, saying "but wait, there's more!"

We're quoting the tagline from the press release for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe: "Open for More." So tagged because the liftgate opening is larger.

And, well, there's more. Read on.

Wait, you ask, didn't we already cover the Santa Fe? Didn't this author travel to New Mexico a few months back to see it up close?

Yes, we/I did. But we also didn't know all the details at the time -- especially since Hyundai builds different versions for different global markets.

Now we know that the Santa Fe -- which has a longer wheelbase than before and offers standard three-row seating -- will come standard with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. A hybrid powertrain will be available.

I poke some gentle fun at the larger liftgate above, but Hyundai has a reason to highlight it -- it offers a "terrace-like" space. Which we take to mean that it will not only swallow a lot of cargo but also be able to be used for socializing at tailgates or while gazing at a sunset. Or camping.

We've talked already about the use of "H" themes in the exterior and interior design as well as the available 21-inch wheels and enlarged size.

We've also touched on its available comfort and convenience features. We won't bore you by repeating ourselves -- this isn't an adult-beverage-enhanced story session at Jake's Pub -- though we now know that Bose audio will be available.

The news to us -- the news we couldn't confirm earlier this year -- involves the powertrain choice. If the aforementioned four-banger isn't for you, you can go hybrid. That powertrain mates a 1.6-liter turbo four to an electric motor for system numbers of 232 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. The ICE Santa Fe gets an eight-speed, dual-clutch automatic while the hybrid has a six-speed slushbox.

The XRT concept we saw in Santa Fe the place will be part of Santa Fe the vehicle. This off-road-oriented trim adds 1.5 inches of ground clearance, different styling elements, and all-terrain rubber. Pop for a towing package and you can haul up to 4,500 pounds.

The gasser goes on sale in March 2024 and the hybrid sometime in the spring.

[Images: Hyundai]

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