The current generation Santa Fe has proven to be a strong seller for Hyundai with the boxy SUV bringing a new level of technology and style to consumes.

It’s no secret that the company is also in the process of overhauling its entire vehicle lineup and it appears it has chosen to circle back around to the Santa Fe for 2027 as our new spy images suggest.

2027 Santa Fe is more than just a mere refresh

We spotted this particular Santa Fe out and about in Metro Detroit and the first thing that stands out is the sheer amount of camo on this example. The core boxy shape remains largely the same, but the front and rear of the SUV get heavy applications of covering and it’s evident the exterior styling is poised to get a pretty extensive makeover to move it away from its armored truck like look.

Past sightings have revealed the Santa Fe will get vertical lighting elements (daytime prevented us from seeing that) but the rear of the SUV is where things get interesting wih the lighting elements moving away from the lower rear bumper, to a new upright position along the tailgate. This particular shift does fall in line with the Palisade and as a bonus, it’ll help make rear bumper work less expensive in a collision related repair since the lenses are now out of the way of a high risk area for rear end accidents.

The rim design suggests this particular example is a lower grade model but look for the existing trim ladder to continue to be carried over mostly unchanged. The interior was also heavily obscured during our encounter, but look for the cabin to possibly benefit from minor tweaks to help it get closer to the Palisade when it comes to core design elements. This would most likely include a new infotainment system to boost is tech game too.

When will we see it?

Look for the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe to make its appearance later this year. Since this would be a significant refresh and not an outright overhaul, look for performance hardware to be carried over for the most part with the existing hybrid and non hybrid gasoline engines being carried over.

One area that is worth keeping an eye on is select elements of the trim ladder. XRT models could get more upgrades to help them be better in soft roading situations and while it’s a long shot the Santa Fe will get an N related model, it would allow the SUV to be in a unique place in the segment. Plus, Hyundai has been really good about delivering surprises as of late and an N badged Santa Fe would be something no one would see coming.