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Virtual facelift: meet the imagined 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe
A recent digital rendering from Digimods Design envisions a refreshed Hyundai Santa Fe for the 2027 model year in the United States. Before you get excited about new dealer stock, keep in mind this is a pure CGI exercise—an artistic take rather than an official Hyundai update. Still, the render offers a compelling look at how a subtle mid-cycle facelift might modernize the fifth-generation Santa Fe.
Exterior design highlights
Up front, the imagined Santa Fe receives a reworked face with revised LED daytime running lights that no longer form the familiar 'H' motif. A pixelated light strip visually links the DRLs, while the primary headlamp clusters sit alongside an enlarged grille. The lower license plate location and a reshaped front bumper air intake further distinguish the rendering from the production 2026 Santa Fe.
On the flanks there are minimal changes—typical for many facelifts—so the silhouette and black cladding carry over from the current model. The most dramatic revisions appear at the rear: the artist replaced the horizontal taillights with vertical units, gave the tailgate a recessed area for the plate, and styled a more premium rear bumper that some observers likened to Cadillac Escalade cues.
Interestingly, the rendering omits the 'Santa Fe' and 'Hyundai' badges from the tailgate. Wheel designs mirror the real vehicle, and the concept was shown in several paint finishes, offering a quick visual pick-your-favorite option.
Vehicle specifications and performance
In reality, the Santa Fe is in its 2026 model year in the U.S., and Hyundai’s current lineup is powered primarily by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder rated at 277 horsepower. There’s also a hybrid variant featuring an electrified 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produces roughly 231 horsepower. These powertrains balance everyday usability with competitive fuel economy for the mid-size SUV segment.
Trim levels, pricing and market positioning
For 2026, the Santa Fe is offered in SE, SEL, XRT, Limited and Calligraphy trims. U.S. pricing starts at $34,800 for the gasoline base model (excluding destination). The mid-range SEL, XRT and Limited trims begin at approximately $37,340, $41,790 and $44,350 respectively, while the top Calligraphy trim has an MSRP around $47,350. Hybrid variants start at about $36,150 for SE, $38,440 for SEL, $45,450 for Limited and $48,450 for Calligraphy.
How the rendered 2027 Santa Fe compares to reality and rivals
As a render, the 2027 concept is a stylistic exercise that highlights potential cues Hyundai could adopt—sharper lighting graphics, a bolder grille and a more luxurious rear treatment. In the marketplace, the Santa Fe competes with the Toyota Highlander, Honda Passport and Kia Sorento (its corporate cousin). Hyundai’s current strengths—value-oriented trim structure, competitive powertrains and an attractive feature set—remain relevant whether the car is production-ready or just a designer’s vision.
Bottom line for buyers and enthusiasts
While the Digimods Design rendering isn't an announcement from Hyundai, it’s a useful look at how small styling tweaks can alter a model’s character. Buyers considering the Santa Fe today will find a well-rounded mid-size SUV with conventional and hybrid powertrains and a broad range of trims and pricing. Enthusiasts and styling aficionados, meanwhile, can appreciate how modest changes—LED signatures, grille detailing and rear lamp orientation—can push the Santa Fe toward a more premium appearance in a hypothetical 2027 update.
Source: autoevolution
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