Seoul  - After marking its entry into the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) segment with the Sante Fe in 2001, the n car maker has given the latest generation for the European market a facelift and more economical engines.

Available in the showrooms later this year, the front section has been given a makeover with a new grille that moves the Hyundai emblem further upward while the fog lamps take up the sporty design of the new ix35. Exterior mirrors with integrated indicator lights, modified taillights and remodelled roof rails set it apart from its predecessor.

Several interior features have been added. A remote control for the CD-Player can be found on the steering wheel and the surface materials are of a higher quality. The new Santa Fe seats seven people. The second row of rear seats can be lowered completely into the floor, boosting loading space from 528 to 1,582 litres.

The ground clearance of 20 cm allows rough terrain travel together with traction control and the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP). Rollover sensors and six airbags are part of the safety package.

But most of the modifications have been made in the engine line-up with improved performance and fuel consumption figures. The 2.2-litre Common Rail diesel has an output of 145 kW/197 hp with consumption down from seven to 6.6. litres. Carbon dioxide emission figures are listed at 174 grammes per kilometre compared to 185 g/km for the previous model.

The entry model is the 2.4 litre 128 kW/174 hp petrol version that replaces the 2.7 litre V6. Consumption is at 8.5 litres per 100 kilometres. New also is the standard six-gear transmission with the option of a six speed automatic and a special manual Eco Mode. (dpa)