Posing with the hybrid versions of the Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe are (from left) Hyundai Motor Philippines (HMPH) Directing Coordinator for Marketing and Product Planning Daihee Park, HMPH Managing Director Cecil Capacete, HMPH Brand Ambassador Paulo Avelino, HMPH President Dongwook Lee, HMPH General Manager for Marketing and Product Planning Mark Parulan, and HMPH General Manager for Sales Victor Vela.

Santa Fe and Tucson SUVs get electrified powertrains

By Kap Maceda Aguila

At the Alabang Town Center stop of its Hyundai Mobility Experience touring showcase, Hyundai Motor Philippines (HMPH) unveiled two models to formally herald its entry into the hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) space.

The all-new Santa Fe HEV and Tucson HEVs now serve to complete the powertrain offerings of HMPH. The South Korea-headquartered marque has already been known even here for championing the battery electric vehicle (BEV) space through the Ioniq 5 and 6, even as it has traditional internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered choices.

“Through the introduction of these two cars, Hyundai further diversifies its lineup. We now have a fleet of SUVs, MPVs, EVs, high-performance cars, and, finally, Hyundai Hybrid. Whichever stage of life you’re in, there is a Hyundai vehicle that suits your needs, solidifying our purpose to provide a Hyundai for every Filipino,” said HMPH Managing Director Cecil Capacete in a release.

The all-new Santa Fe Hybrid gets a Smartstream 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid with a total system output of 235ps and 367Nm, and e-Dynamic Drive that allows “electric-powered handling, traction, evasive handling assist, and dynamic torque vectoring control.” The Smart Regenerative Braking System automatically adjusts the level of energy that the vehicle can recover during deceleration — depending on driving conditions and always in aid of “fuel-efficient driving.”

Inside, the Santa Fe Hybrid receives so-called “relaxation comfort seats” in front, and second-row captain seats with remote folding — done through the 12.3-inch panoramic curved infotainment display. Furthermore, dual wireless smartphone charging ports have built-in cooling fans, and occupants get a UV-C sterilization tray and a bi-directional storage console.

A suite of features care of Hyundai SmartSense includes forward collision-avoidance assist, all-around parking distance warnings, and blind-spot collision-avoidance assist. The vehicle also gets a surround view monitor, among other niceties. Available in select Hyundai dealerships, the Santa Fe HEV is priced at P3.33 million and comes in the following colors: Abyss Black, Creamy White, Magnetic Gray, Earthy Brass, Terracotta Orange, and Ocado Green.

Meanwhile, the Tucson HEV, which also reflects a current-gen refresh, is similarly powered by the turbocharged 1.6-liter Smartstream. Its new look can be gleaned on its radiator grille, front and rear bumpers, as well as wheel design. As in the Santa Fe, the Tucson boasts e-Dynamic Driving and Smart Regenerative Braking. Aside from the usual driving modes like Eco, Smart, and Sport, the Tucson has “Baby Mode” for optimal acceleration “that enhances comfort for the young ones on board.”

The Tucson Hybrid is priced at P2.29 million and is available in the following colors: Pine Green, Phantom Black Pearl, White Cream, Shimmering Silver, Amazon Gray, Deep Sea, and Cashmere Bronze.

“We saw a lot of demand for hybrids during our other stops of our Hyundai Mobility Experience,” said HMPH General Manager for Marketing and Product Planning Mark Parulan to “Velocity.” “People asked when we would bring in our hybrid lineup. Of course, we’re committed to giving the public what they request for.”

HMPH values its Hyundai Mobility Experience tour which brings not only the brand’s products closer to more people, but shows the company stands for — along with its directions for the near future. Mr. Parulan adds, “The Hyundai Mobility Experience is actually a very vital marketing activity of Hyundai. It allows the public to get a good touch and feel of the products that we offer, plus the overall experience and it keeps us engaged with the public. We get good feedback on what they want and what other products we should be bringing in,” asserted the executive.

For more information, visit https://www.hyundai.com/ph/en/hyundai-story/hyundai-mobility-experience or follow the official company accounts (HyundaiMotorPhilippines) on Facebook and Instagram.