The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe is due to arrive at Rogers Hyundai any day, and as the anticipation builds for its arrival, so does our enthusiasm for the new features and options of this redesigned SUV.  Already a very popular vehicle since its introduction in 2001, the third generation Santa Fe offers some exciting changes and improvements.

Starting with styling, the new Santa Fe offers a choice of both a 5-passenger (Santa Fe Sport) and 7-passenger model, with the latter boasting an extended wheelbase rather than just simply adding the third-row seat.  The exterior look incorporates Hyundai's new Storm Edge design concept for a sharper and sportier look.

Under the hood, the new 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe offers more power and fuel efficiency than its predecessor.  The base engine is a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers 190 horsepower and 181 lb-ft. of torque (compared to 175 horsepower and 169 lb-ft. of torque in the 2012 base model).  Even with the performance boost, fuel efficiency also increases, with estimates at 23 mpg city and 33 mpg highway (compared to 20/28 in the 2012 model).  Engine upgrades include a turbocharged 4-cylinder as well as a 3.3-liter V6 engine with up to 290 horsepower!

In the safety department, the 2013 Santa Fe carries over some important standard features of its predecessor, including electronic stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. New standard safety features on the 2013 model include Hill-Start Assist and an additional driver's knee airbag for a total of 7 airbags, along with an optional blind-spot monitoring system.

For bells and whistles, the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a long list of standard features, including a 40/20/40 split rear seat, Hyundai BlueLink, keyless entry, cruise control, full power accessories and six-speaker stereo. Available options include heated rear seats, heated steering wheel and panoramic sunroof.

From front to back and inside out, the new 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe is slated to make a big splash when it arrives on the Rogers lot.