SEMA is coming.
That means we're about to see a wide range of new custom builds. They'll undoubtedly range from meh to magnificent, and there will be plenty that fall somewhere in between. One that I particularly like comes from a joint build partnering Hyundai with energy-drink company Rockstar.
The main theme for this build is to turn a Santa Fe CUV soft-roader into a true off-road machine. Rockstar claims it's both all-show and all-go, which is nice to hear. Based on the upgrades, it also appears to be true.
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Under the hood, the Santa Fe features Hyundai's 3.3-liter V-6 outfitted with an AEM cold air intake, a Mishimoto cooling system, nitrous-oxide injection, Nology high-performance spark plug wires, and a custom Magnaflow exhaust. We don't have horsepower numbers, but you can bet this thing moves. Odyssey batteries provide the electricity and Nitro Gear gears beef up the driveline.
The suspension has front 2.0 KING coil-over shocks and rear 2.5 KING shocks with finned reservoirs, as well as new tie rods and control arms. It rides on Mickey Thompson Baja Claw 35-inch off-road tires mounted on 17-inch off-road KMC XD 301 Turbine bead-lock wheels. Big R1 brakes with 6-piston front and 4-piston rear calipers provide the stopping power.
Inside, this beast features a KICKER audio system and Roadwire custom leather upholstery. Exterior upgrades include a WARN winch, rock sliders and bumpers, Bulldog LED lighting, a custom roof rack, and custom-designed headlights and taillights.
The go-anywhere and do it quickly attitude is perfect for a vehicle with big Rockstar logos on the outside. Hopefully, we'll get to see this one in person, and maybe give it a go...Hyundai, are you listening?
The 2016 SEMA show running in Las Vegas from November 1-4. For more info, head to our dedicated hub.
