The Sime Darby Group is one of the pioneer conglomerates in the Malaysian corporate scene as it came into existence more than 60 years ago in the plantation sector. They are truly a mega company with involvement in just about every industry including plantation, energy & utilities, healthcare, property, motors and industrial. With operations 20 countries, their staff strength is more 100,000 persons. Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors Sdn Bhd came into being in 2007 after the successful take over of Hyundai-Berjaya Sdn Bhd and Inokom Corporation Sdn Bhd. Although involved primarily in the CBU models of the Hyundai brand, their also assemble CKD units including this Santa Fe. Sime Darby’s interest in the automotive industry also includes a number of well known marques which underlines their growing stature.

The 4x4 market is one of the more interesting segments of industry and has attracted a growing number of players due to its consistent growth over the last few years. Although dominated by the pick-up trucks, the 4x4 SUVs form a sizable portion of the segment as the taste and lifestyle of the motorists. Even though the actual numbers are not huge, it is attractive as it very much in tandem with global tastes moving towards the multi-utility SUVs. In addition, with the cost of fuel being one the deciding factors in the choice of set of wheels, a diesel powered SUV does in more ways than one make a lot of sense.

The name Santa Fe itself is coined after an American city and this underlines the market this up-market SUV is aimed at as Hyundai is one of the fastest growing brands in the USA. As is almost a norm, the front grille is dominant with muscular bodylines and neat profile will make a statement by itself. Compared to the previous model, this Santa Fe has been given a decent makeover to be inline with current trends that will make it appealing. The wraparound front bumper with integrated foglamps and slim headlamps enhance its appeal even further. The slopping rear end without the spare tyre adds to the sporty feel and with the alloy sport rims, the overall package is above par besides being a 7-seater.

Trend being the guiding light of all, even companies are re-looking at their car policy to match a car to the taste of their personnel. This aspect is normally overlooked by many but it is an essential component of their staff happy in their employment. So, this SUV ideally suit executives who clock-in many kilometers traveling both on and off-road to branches or work sites plus also businessmen. The car-like driving characteristic of the Santa Fe offers much comfort for these busy people while traveling besides providing the status and class their seek. As a fleet vehicle, it has much to offer for those who want to be more contemporary.

The network in place for Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors Sdn Bhd consists of 79 in Peninsular Malaysia and 17 in East Malaysia. For prompt attention, this network is geared towards fulfilling all sales and service needs.

A glance at the interior that has leather seats and a combination of metallic & wood finishing creates a harmonious ambience. The dash design and the layout of the centre facia is pleasing besides offering a smart look. A 4-spoke leather wrapped steering wheel is power assisted and sits facing the 3-dail instrument cluster that has provides good visibility. At night the instrument dials turn cool blue to be easy on the eye of the driver. With a longer wheelbase the 80mm legroom available for the front and second row occupants is plenty and added to this is the electronically adjustable front seats. In addition to the usual front air-con vents, the second and third row seats also have their own vents. Compartments and storage space in everywhere but the feature that stands out is the reclineable front seats. In addition, the second and third row seats are fully foldable flat to offer a large storage space of 2,213 litres behind the second row seats. The entertainment is provided by the in-dash CD changer, MP3 player with internal amplifier and supported by 6-speakers.

Being a diesel powered vehicle, the power comes from the in-line 4-cylinder 16 valves SOHC 2,188 engine has an iron block and aluminum head. It has a CRDi or Common Rail Direct Injection system to provide responsiveness at the touch of the pedal. It also has VGT or Variable Geometry Turbo for quick response at low speeds. Out test was conducted during our trip north to the popular island, Penang. To make this test even more salient, there were 4 adults during the trip. The peak power is rated at 150PS at 4000 rpm and maximum torque 335 Nm between 1800 – 2500 rpm. We recorded reaching 110 km/h at 2100 rpm, 140 km/h at 2700 rpm and 180 km/h at 3600 rpm. This underlines the fuel efficiency of the Santa Fe. For 100 km we used 9.05 litres of diesel or 1 litre travels 11.04 km. At today’s fuel prices, this is commendable. The 5-speed auto transmission is mated to the lively engine to deliver a good ride and minimal cabin noise with very little NVH. For the front, Macpherson strut suspension is used and the rear, the multi-link type.

This Santa Fe comes with the 5-star NCAP rating for the front and side impact tests. The body utilises high tensile steel for more rigidity and the body shell is unitary. With a high seating position, the driver is always is good command of the road. The steering wheel is collapsible and there are two front SRS airbags. Seatbelts are of the three-point type with load limiter and the rear door has the child proof feature.

The warranty offered is 5-year or 300,000 km which ever comes and this is easily one the best available. In addition, this applies to both company and government purchase. It is a package that is very hard to overlook for any fleet manager due to the substantial saving that can be gained as the insurance backing is offered by MUI Continental Insurance Bhd.

The price for company registration is RM164,764 on-the-road with insurance and colours available are Blue Onyx, Sleek Silver, Black Pearl, Superior Red, Titanium Blue & Natural Khaki.

The prices are valid as per 28 August 2008.