Exclusive: 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe SWB-only For Aus, Seven Seats Expected

New details have emerged on Hyundai’s new Australian-delivered 2013 Santa Fe large SUV, courtesy of a company brochure seen exclusively by TMR.

A dealer guide obtained by a TMR reader reveals most of the model’s local specifications, but curiously omits any mention of a seven-seat layout.

First unveiled at the New York Auto Show in April, US models will be available in both short and long wheelbase form - with the long wheelbase model expected to be produced in left hand drive only.

In the US market, the short wheelbase version is badged ‘Santa Fe Sport’, with seating for five occupants.

The long wheelbase version - due in the US early next year - will be badged simply ‘Santa Fe’, and features a seven-seat layout.

The leaked Hyundai document however appears to confirm that Australia will get only the short wheelbase version, with no mention of the longer bodystyle.

Our source nevertheless confirms that at least one Australian Hyundai dealer has been assured that local versions will continue to offer seven seats as standard, with the third row integrated into the shorter wheelbase platform.

Either way, you would have to think that seven-seat capability is crucial for the Santa Fe’s 'family SUV' segment in Australia.

Despite this omission, the leaked brochure confirms the new Santa Fe’s model breakdown, plus engine and driveline options.

The current entry model’s SLX moniker will be replaced with ‘Active’ - following other recent Hyundai passenger models - while Elite and Highlander versions still fill out the upper tiers.