2013 Hyundai Santa Fe (ix45) teaser

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe (ix45) teaser

We’ve known for a while that a new, completely redesigned Hyundai Santa Fe (ix45 for European readers) was in the works thanks to the sighting of numerous prototypes and even an inadvertent leak a few months back.

Hyundai has now released two images of its new crossover, while also confirming that it will be unveiled next month at the 2012 New York Auto Show before going on sale later in the year as a 2013 model.

Hyundai has also revealed that the 2013 Santa Fe will debut its latest design language dubbed "Storm Edge".

Described as an evolution of the current “Fluidic Design” theme, Storm Edge adds some sharper and more pronounced creases to create a futuristic and urban-style look.

The design of the latest 2013 Santa Fe also adopts Hyundai’s new hexagonal grille, complete with a shiny chrome three-bar pattern. LED detailing also features prominently in the fog lights.

In terms of powertrains, expect the current Santa Fe' four-cylinder and V-6 units to carry over but with several revisions, such as the addition of direct-injection technology to make them more powerful yet more fuel efficient.

Additionally, Hyundai may follow Ford’s lead and install its hot 274-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo engine in the new Santa Fe to give it a better chance against the competition, though we still don't have official confirmation on this. Also unconfirmed is whether Hyundai will choose to bring back its third row seating option on the Santa Fe after dropping it in 2009.

Stay tuned for an update.

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe (ix45) teaser

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe (ix45) teaser