Hyundai’s Santa Fe is undergoing a few mid-cycle tweaks and looking into 2010 we can expect an upgraded front end with a reworked grille and headlights. Around back, the Santa Fe will be getting slightly different looking tail-lights and bumper with integrated dual chrome tail-pipes. Because it’s a mid-cycle update, we shouldn’t be expecting any major design changes. Major changes will come with the next generation Santa Fe (reportedly in 2012-13).

Inside, the cabin will be slightly revised with an increased emphasis on material quality while under the bonnet the 2010 Santa Fe will be getting an all-new R-diesel engine with estimated rating of 200 horsepower. However, the R-diesel engine is expected to be available in European and South Korean market only. The facelifted Santa Fe is also rumored to be equipped with Hyundais new six-speed automatic transmission, meaning the vehicle will benefit from improved fuel economy!

The 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe is expected to hit the US Hyundai dealers by the end of this year, but some reports state the early date, sometime around September 2009.

Update: Sitting next to the facelifted Santa Fe are two heavily camouflaged Kia Sorentos, both sharing the uni-body platform and powertrain units with the 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe. Location: Hyundais European R&D centre in Germany.

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