Hyundai fans can look forward to at least two new cars in 2025, with a third model potentially on the cards as well.
So far, the lineup includes the facelifted Tucson and Grand Creta, though it’s also possible that the refreshed Santa Fe will touch down before the year is out.
What to look forward to
While Hyundai has yet to provide exact dates for the debut of each new vehicle, the first model bound for our shores should be the new Grand Creta, though it will no longer use that name, according to IOL.
The SUV initially made its debut in India in April 2021, where it goes by the name “Alcazar;” however, the Korean automaker opted to use a different naming convention when the model was launched in South Africa in March 2022.
Here, the vehicle was given the name “Grand Creta” in order to emphasize its larger size relative to the Creta crossover that it shares a platform with.
Fast forward to today, and Hyundai has decided to reverse this decision by embracing the Alcazar nameplate for the facelifted model, which will likely appear in the first half of 2025.
The Grand Creta, or Alcazar, is essentially a long-wheelbase version of the Creta, making it one of the more affordable seven-seater SUVs in South Africa.
Since it’s an update and not a new generation, the engine lineup will be the same as before, with a choice of either a 2.0-litre petrol block or a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel mill.
The petrol units generate 117kW and 191Nm and consume 8.9l/100km, whereas the diesel produces 84kW and 250Nm while averaging 6.5l/100km.
It also has a front-wheel-drive layout, and either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox.
While the powertrain may not have changed, the Alcazar will see a visual overhaul with a new front end, sporting a larger bumper and a slim set of LED headlights and daytime running lights.
At the back, the SUV has a new horizontal strip connecting the taillamps on either side of the boot door.
Looking inside, the dashboard features a modern dual display for the driver and infotainment systems, in contrast to the separate screens used in the current models, though it should be noted that the final spec sheet South Africa receives could be altered from its foreign counterparts.
The second car bound for our shores is the new Tucson, which was initially set to arrive last year only to be quietly delayed.
Like the Alcazar, the Tucson is getting an update rather than a complete rework, so expect the drivetrain selection to remain the same with either a 2.0-litre petrol or a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel power source.
The petrol option has access to 115kW and 192Nm while drinking fuel at a rate of 8.9l/100km. The diesel can tap into a more substantial 137kW and 416Nm while averaging 7.4l/100km.
It remains to be seen whether Hyundai will also include the flagship N Line when the new units are released, which is the only version to offer all-wheel drive and a number of upgrades from unique badges to a sport exhaust, black-and-red seats, and aluminium pedals.
On the visual front, the facelifted units have seen a fairly subtle touch-up, with larger LEDs for the Tucson’s signature “Parametric Jewel” daytime running lights.
There’s also a selection of new alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 19 inches in size, and the bumpers and skid plates have been reshaped for better airflow.
The last model is not yet confirmed for South Africa, but it’s expected that Hyundai will usher in the new Santa Fe, which is the oldest model in the brand’s stable right now.
The Santa Fe has entered a new generation overseas with a completely new design, showcasing much blockier proportions with an LED strip running across a much smaller grille.
It’s a similar story inside, where the seven-seater SUV has a fancy interior with the same design language as the brand’s other recent models, such as a dual display and two-tone leather upholstery.
Engine-wise, the Hyundai is sold with three different plants in other markets, including a 2.5-litre petrol and a 1.6-litre hybrid.
The hybrid is highly unlikely given that the carmaker is still uncertain about introducing its electrified models in South Africa, but the 2.5-litre block should be fair game.
It is available in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged forms, with the former producing 142kW and 246Nm, while the latter can put out 206kW and 421Nm.
One thing to note about the Santa Fe is that it may actually be on the chopping block for South Africa, as Hyundai has been shifting its catalogue down-market in an effort to stay competitive.
The C-segment Kona crossover was axed for this reason, while the entry-level Exter was introduced in late 2024, so it’s possible that the R1-million Santa Fe may no longer have a place in our market, but this remains to be confirmed.
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