Macho Sante supersized

TEST DRIVE

- BY EDWARD STEPHENS

CAR makers can be a conservative bunch when it comes to introducing a new version of one of their best-selling models.

Evolutionary rather than revolutionary is the usual mantra to ensure the visual changes aren’t too dramatic to put off loyal customers.

But with the fifth incarnation of its popular seven-seater Santa Fe, Hyundai has thrown caution to the wind and introduced a radical design that bears no resemblance to the previous model.

Gone are the svelte curves and rounded body panels to be replaced by a new chunky square look and macho persona.

And this Santa Fe is big. Very big. But that’s the idea. You'll struggle to find another seven-seater, four wheel-drive SUV that offers anywhere near as much interior space and head height.

Passengers in the middle row of seats have limousine-like legroom and if they feel they don’t need all of it they can slide their seat forward to create even more luggage space behind them when the two rear seats are folded into the floor.

And to help with loading bulky items the huge powered tailgate opens right down to bumper level.