Hyundai Updates 2015 Santa Fe with Chassis Tweaks and New Kit
Hyundai has refreshed the 2015 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport with chassis improvements, upgraded steering electronics and added features, aiming for better handling and equipment.
Hyundai has announced a set of updates for its 2015 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport SUVs, introducing revised chassis components, an upgraded electric steering system and additional standard equipment. The changes aim to sharpen handling and add value across both the five-seat and seven-seat versions for the new model year.
Chassis and steering changes for 2015
Both the regular Santa Fe and the shorter Santa Fe Sport benefit from a revised rear suspension geometry, which Hyundai says is intended to improve ride and handling. The front wheel bushings have also been updated. A key technical change is the introduction of a 32-bit microprocessor for the electric power steering system, replacing the previous 16-bit unit. This upgrade is designed to deliver more precise steering feel and response, addressing an area where previous models had drawn criticism for numbness.
These changes follow a broader industry trend of refining chassis and steering systems for better driver engagement, as seen with other recent SUV updates such as the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport.
Equipment and specification upgrades
Hyundai has added several features to the standard equipment list for 2015. Both models now come with a driver’s blind spot mirror, an automatic front passenger window and daytime running lights. The Hands-Free Smart Liftgate with Auto Open, previously unavailable, is now offered as an option. Two new exterior colours, Platinum Graphite and Sparkling Silver, join the palette, while other minor tweaks round out the update.
- Driver’s blind spot mirror now standard
- Auto front passenger power window added
- Daytime running lights standardised
- Hands-Free Smart Liftgate with Auto Open optional
- New Platinum Graphite and Sparkling Silver paint options
Engines and transmissions unchanged
The 2015 Santa Fe Sport continues with the same engine choices: a 2.4-litre four-cylinder producing 194hp and a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 264hp. The longer Santa Fe LWB (long wheelbase) retains its 3.3-litre V6, rated at 290hp. All engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. No mechanical changes to the powertrains have been announced for this update.
Market context and rivals
Hyundai’s decision to focus on chassis and equipment upgrades mirrors moves by competitors updating their mainstream SUVs for 2015. With no changes to engines or transmissions, the emphasis is on refinement and perceived quality rather than headline performance figures. The Santa Fe’s updates arrive as the segment faces new and refreshed competition, including from Mitsubishi and Mazda.
For buyers, the 2015 Santa Fe’s changes bring improved standard kit and the promise of a more composed drive, without altering the established engine range. The update keeps Hyundai’s SUV competitive in a crowded market, offering incremental improvements rather than a full redesign.
