
SANTA FE vs KODIAQ
Seven-seat family SUVs offer different approaches to the formula
FAMILIES looking for multi-seat transport aren't as well served as they used to be. The MPV class has all but disappeared, with most options these days being either van-based or very expensive, so it's down to seven-seat SUVS to fill the void.
One car that has always been a capable contender in the class is the Hyundai Santa Fe. It was initially launched as an awkward-looking 4x4, but each generation has improved in terms of design, quality and kit. And while the Mk4 was rather forgettable, the new fifth-generation introduces a distinctive appearance that draws inspiration from Hyundai's recent concept cars and electric Ioniq range.
This model also sees a line-up of petrol hybrid and plug-in options offered, with no room for diesel in the range. That's a bold move when the latter still has a place in this market, thanks to its towing ability and long-distance fuel sipping.
One car that still offers diesel power alongside petrol and plug-in options is the Skoda Kodiaq. It hasn't been around for as long as the Santa Fe, so the Czech firm has just launched the second-generation model, but it will still be a strong rival for Hyundai.
HEAD TO HEAD
ON THE ROAD
THE Hyundai is more powerful than the Skoda by 10bhp and is faster from 0-62mph by two-tenths of a second, but it's not as pleasant to use its maximum performance.
The gearbox lets the revs soar, and while the Santa Fe is refined most of the time, its coarse engine note is obvious when accelerating. Neither car is designed to be entertaining in corners, but it's the Kodiaq that is the more agile of the two.
DESIGN
Bu hikaye Auto Express dergisinin October 09, 2024 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye Auto Express dergisinin October 09, 2024 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap

Audi RS 3 Saloon
FIRST DRIVE Latest version of high-performance model trades slickness for masses of character and true driver engagement

BATTLE OF MIDWAY
Who said SUVs have to be high, wide and boxy? The facelifted Kia EV6 and Skoda Enyaq Coupé blend traditional cues with a trendy, low roof approach

Peugeot boss hints at future hot hatch plans
PEUGEOT's new CEO has said he wants to embrace the brand's history with the potential return of its hallowed GTi badge, confirming our exclusive story from earlier this year.

CHARGING INTO THE FUTURE
WE VISIT A NEW BP ALL-ELECTRIC FORECOURT CHARGING HUB THAT AIMS TO REVOLUTIONISE EV OWNERSHIP

Nissan turns over a new Leaf as part of 2025 product onslaught
REVEALED UK-built electric cars to lead Japanese brand's range revival

Ferrari 12Cilindr i Spider
FIRST DRIVE Dramatically styled and with a glorious V12 engine, the latest drop-top Ferrari is every bit as desirable in the metal as you would imagine - and it's equally sensational to drive

£600m boost for MINI Oxford plant on hold
BMW has paused a £600m investment to electrify MINI's Plant Oxford due to the slow global take-up of EVs, Auto Express can exclusively reveal.

BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé
FIRST DRIVE Substantial revamp for BMW's smallest saloon bring big tech advances, but does it have the driver appeal to match?

Futuristic look for new Kia PV range
REVEALED First official images of Kia's new PV range show that the final vehicles have retained many of the original concept's features

Leapmotor C10
FIRST UK DRIVE We find out if bargain-priced electric SUV does enough to stand out from the pack