Tag Archives: Toyota

Electric/hybrid, Hyundai, Motoring

Santa Fe: Family SUV with premium quality

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Hyundai Santa Fe

By Bill McCarthy

Initially seen as more of a budget choice in the SUV market, Hyundai’s flagship model has transitioned into a full premium offering. As the brand continues to grow strongly, the firm clearly has eyes on the upper end of the market.
Starting at more than £48k, rising to almost £55k, expectations are high for this latest fifth-generation model, which boasts premium features and quality. It also looks radically different, something which split opinion with many who saw it.
Primarily a seven-seater, it comes in three specifications: Premium (as driven here in four wheel drive mode), Ultimate, and the range-topping Calligraphy.
A premium six-seat configuration is also available, as seen on this model.

The Santa Fe’s design has evolved into a more boxy shape, yet Hyundai claims it is more aerodynamic.
The exterior was optimised to reduce the drag coefficient to just 0.29 (down from 0.33 in the previous generation), though it’s hard to believe at first glance.
The model is slightly longer than its predecessor, retaining the same width, while the wheelbase has been extended by a couple of inches.

Yes, it’s a big vehicle—with a head-turning presence, whether parked or in traffic.
It features distinctive H-shaped headlamps and tail lights, complemented by a full-width light bar integrated into the grille.
The SUV sits on imposing 20-inch alloy wheels, framed by equally large wheel arches.
Additional exterior touches include electric-folding door mirrors, privacy glass, a powered tailgate, and integrated roof rails for a rugged aesthetic.

Upmarket interior

The interior is quite an experience – stylish and minimalist, with a curved twin display spanning the dashboard. It exudes a premium feel.
One screen handles infotainment, navigation, and smartphone connectivity, while the other displays real-time driver information.
The touchscreen controls both navigation and infotainment, paired with a high-end 10-speaker audio system and DAB radio.
Smartphone connectivity is via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, alongside Bluetooth with voice recognition.
The vehicle also supports over-the-air (OTA) software updates for various systems.

Executive features include heated front and rear seats, dual-zone climate control, heated steering wheel and 360degree camera for safety.
Convenient USB-C charging points are fitted across all three rows, along with a wireless smartphone charging pad.
The front seats are heated and power-adjustable, with lumbar support for the driver.

Efficiency and performance

Paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission, the powertrain combines a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering impressive fuel economy, with around 40mpg exceptional for such a large vehicle.

On the road, it starts silently under electric power, with the petrol engine engaging as you accelerate – though it can sound slightly raucous initially.
It excels on motorways, offering a comfortable ride and ample torque for confident overtaking.

Driving dynamics

For its size, the Santa Fe handles surprisingly sharply, though some body roll is inevitable on tighter bends.
For challenging conditions or off-road, you can easily engage four-wheel-drive mode on this model.

Practicality

Highly versatile, with flexible seating including foldable, twistable, and 60/40 split-folding second-row seats.
With all six seats up, boot space is limited, but it expands to a generous 1,945 litres when needed.
The rearmost seats are spacious and accessible for children, though older adults – particularly seniors – may find entry trickier.

Safety

The Santa Fe comes packed with safety tech, including a full suite of airbags, all wheel drive control, autonomous emergency braking, hill-start and descent control, and lane-keep assist with departure warning.

Verdict

The fifth-generation’ Santa Fe successfully transitions into the luxury SUV segment with bold styling, a premium interior, and impressive tech. Its hybrid’s hybrid powertrain delivers strong efficiency, while the spacious, versatile cabin offers a roomy environment for families. Ride comfort and refinement are good, though some may find the design polarising.

Factfile

  • Hyundai Santa Fe Premium 1.6T Hybrid 6AT 4WD
  • Price: £48,830
  • Mechanical: 215PS, 1598cc 1.6-litre petrol engine and electric motor driving all wheels via 7-speed, auto gearbox
  • Max speed: 112mph
  • 0-60mph: 9.8 seconds
  • Combine mpg: 38-41
  • Insurance group: 35
  • CO2 emissions: 165g/km
  • BiK rating: 37%
  • Warranty: Five years/100,000 miles
AWD, Isuzu, Motoring, Pick-up/4x4

AT35: A head-turning off-road beast

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Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35

By Bill McCarthy

When it comes to workhorses like a pick-up truck, it takes something special to turn heads and become a talking point. Such is the case with the AT35, a modified version of the new Isuzu D-Max launched this year.

Sitting on huge tyres, with a bright orange livery and dazzling roof lights, this imposing beast—and it is a huge beast—looks the part, even if its primary role is as an off-road explorer. But perhaps it also doubles as a lifestyle statement.

Standout design features

The AT35 grabs attention with flared wheel arches, Arctic Trucks side steps, mud flaps, and distinctive AT35 badging. Additional touches include roof rails, a rear multifunction receiver.

A cherry on the cake accessory is the Lazer Light Sports Bar, sitting like a cowboy hat on top of the cabin.

The light array shoots out spotlight-type beam bright enough to light up a jungle path or farm track, but no much appreciated by oncoming motorists on the high street.

Practical features include remote central locking for the tailgate, wireless phone charger, Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) for improved safety , locking wheel nuts and even. colour-coded tyre valve caps

Tackling the toughest terrain

Developed with Icelandic off-road specialists Arctic Trucks, this hardcore variant is powered by a 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine, delivering 164 PS and 360 Nm of torque, paired with either a manual or automatic gearbox driven here. It’s not the quietest—especially on start-up—but once moving, the noise fades into the background.

Key off-road enhancements include:

  • Dual all-wheel-drive modes (high and low range)
  • Locking rear differential
  • Reinforced chassis with Arctic Trucks Bilstein suspension
  • 35° approach angle for climbing steep inclines
  • 800mm wading depth and ability to traverse 40° side slopes
Performance and practicality

With a 3.5-tonne towing capacity and one-tonne payload, the AT35 is as capable on worksites as it is on adventures. Features like Trailer Sway Control and Hill Descent Control enhance stability, while its claimed 30 mpg fuel economy is respectable for a heavy-duty 4×4.

The load bed includes expedition-ready tie-downs and a remotely lockable, weatherproof roller cover. However, the weekly shop might need to go on the back seat. Even so, everyday items can be stowed in the rear bay via securing ties.

A refined interior

Inside, the AT35 blends rugged capability with comfort via leather upholstery, with heated front seats offering a touch of luxury, comfort and durability. It also features dual-zone climate control and other creature comforts.

 The dashboard is dominated by a nine-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and built-in sat nav, together with an eight-speaker premium sound system. This is complemented by a seven-inch screen that delivers real-time information to the driver.

On the road

While optimised for off-roading, the D-Max handles tarmac reasonably well – though unladen, it can feel bouncy. However, the commanding driving position ensures excellent visibility, and the upgraded suspension keeps it stable through bends. For the record, it hits 60mph in around 12.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 112, although almost certainly not a priority when considering this type of vehicle.

Comprehensive safety

The AT35 comes packed with safety tech, including traffic sign recognition, full complement of airbags, auto autonomous braking, forward collision warning, lane assist and adaptive cruise control.

Verdict

The Arctic Trucks AT35 transforms an already more than capable D-Max into something extraordinary. It’s rugged enough for serious off-roading, practical for worksite demands, and stylish enough to make a lifestyle statement. While the diesel engine isn’t the smoothest, few pick-ups match its sheer capability and presence.

Factfile

  • Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35
  • Price: £54,995 (CVOTR)
  • Engine: 1898cc, 164 PS 4-cyl diesel
  • Transmission: 8-speed automatic (or manual)
  • Top speed: 112 mph
  • 0-62 mph: 12.4 sec
  • Economy: 30.3 mpg
  • CO2 emissions: 241 g/km
  • Insurance group: 42
  • Warranty: 5 yrs/125,000 miles