The 2025 Santa Fe gets a significant upgrade over the 2024 model in terms of exterior, interior, and tech features. It adopts a more boxy and rugged design language, with a larger blacked-out grille and split LED headlights up front, giving it a more distinctive overall look. Inside, the 2025 version gets a brand-new dual-screen setup, coming standard with a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. It also upgrades to the latest infotainment system, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For the Malaysian market, powertrain options are expected to remain the 2.5L naturally aspirated and 1.6T turbocharged engines, though fuel efficiency might see some tweaks. On the safety front, new additions include Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist and Digital Key. Notably, the 2025 Santa Fe is built on an all-new platform, boosting body rigidity while offering a more spacious interior. For Malaysian consumers, the car's air-conditioning cooling efficiency and rust-proofing in tropical climates are worth paying attention to—after all, the local hot and rainy conditions pose a big test for vehicle durability. If you're interested, it's recommended to head to your local dealership for a test drive, especially focusing on how quickly the AC cools down after the car's been baking in the afternoon sun and how stable the infotainment system runs in high temperatures.

The 2024 Santa Fe gets a significant upgrade over the 2023 model in terms of exterior, interior, and tech features. The all-new design language gives the body more rugged lines, with a larger front grille and split LED headlights up front, overall leaning more into Hyundai's "Sensuous Sportiness" philosophy. Inside, the 2024 version swaps in a dual 12.3-inch connected display setup and uses more soft-touch materials to boost that premium feel. They've also added a digital key and an upgraded Hyundai SmartSense active safety system, packing in more driver assistance features. For the Malaysian market, powertrain options are expected to carry over the 2.5L petrol and 1.6T hybrid, but there might be some retuning to optimize fuel efficiency. It's worth noting the 2024 Santa Fe now offers a third-row seat as an option, which adds real practicality for Malaysian families with more kids. A heads-up though – since specs can vary between Malaysia and other global markets, it's smart for buyers to check exact details with local authorized dealers. When shopping, beyond just checking out the new looks, make sure to test drive the upgraded driver assistance systems – those active safety features are especially crucial for Malaysia's tricky urban traffic. Also, compare the after-sales service policies between the two model years; usually, newer models come with more competitive warranty packages.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe is expected to be priced between RM180,000 and RM250,000 in Malaysia, depending on the trim level and optional packages. Positioned as a midsize SUV targeting family buyers, it comes with either a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine or a 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid system, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and offers both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options. Malaysian consumers can look forward to its new design language, featuring more angular body lines and a digital cockpit equipped with a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and smart driver assistance systems like Highway Driving Assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist. It's worth noting that the Santa Fe's key competitors in the Malaysian market include the Honda CR-V and Toyota Harrier. When making a purchase decision, consumers should compare the warranty policies offered by each brand; Hyundai currently provides a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, which gives it a competitive edge in its class. Additionally, potential buyers are advised to keep an eye on the Malaysian government's Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) policy, as the hybrid version may qualify for tax incentives, and the actual on-the-road price will vary depending on the registration location.