Hyundai in New Zealand: Santa Fe, Tucson and the Hydrogen Future
Hyundai has made some serious strides in recent years. While some might still lump the brand in with Asian rivals Toyota or Kia, the Koreans have long since built up a loyal following here. In particular, the Hyundai Tucson and Hyundai Santa Fe SUVs have become a common sight on our roads. But Hyundai wouldn't be Hyundai without also looking ahead to the future of transport – and that's where hydrogen comes in.
If you're in the market for a Hyundai Santa Fe right now, you're in luck. Especially in the used car market, deals are popping up like mushrooms. It's no surprise, really, as many of these vehicles are coming off the back of fleet or lease agreements and are now hitting the open market. The hybrid versions are particularly sought after. The combination of a fuel-sipping electric motor and a spacious interior makes the Santa Fe a genuine alternative to premium European SUVs. And often at a price that undercuts the competition significantly. I had a look at one recently myself – the spec list was impressive: leather seats, a large navigation screen, plenty of safety tech. It makes you wonder why you'd ever buy new.
But it's not just the Santa Fe turning heads. The Hyundai Tucson, its little brother, has been a top-seller for years. It really hits the mark: compact dimensions on the outside, but plenty of room inside, sharp styling, and a wide range of engines. Again, Hyundai is focused on electrification – the Tucson is available as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid. For many families, it's the go-to choice for a reliable everyday vehicle.
What makes the current crop of used offerings so attractive can be summed up in a few points:
- Generous standard kit: Even base models often come with dual-zone climate control and infotainment systems – a real bargain on the used market.
- Hybrids on the rise: More and more Santa Fe and Tucson models are rolling in as hybrids, which saves on fuel and helps hold their resale value.
- Warranty advantage: Many used models still benefit from the long manufacturer's warranty that Hyundai is known for – giving you peace of mind.
But the Hyundai Motor Company – and the wider Hyundai Group – is playing the long game. While most manufacturers are going all-in on battery electric vehicles, the group is sticking with fuel cells. Their hydrogen strategy isn't just lip service: they already have a production model, the NEXO, on the road, and development is continuing at pace. Industry chatter suggests the next generation Santa Fe, or even a dedicated hydrogen SUV, is in the pipeline. One thing's for sure: Hyundai believes in the future of hydrogen, particularly for commercial vehicles, but also for private buyers who cover long distances and don't have time for lengthy charging stops.
So, whether you're thinking about a brand new Tucson or a used Santa Fe Hybrid, you're not just getting a solid vehicle – you're getting a slice of future tech. The Koreans understand that mobility needs to be diverse, and that's exactly why they're finding success here.