Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe CKD to launch in Q2 2026 – SUVs locally assembled in Kulim after Staria
Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY) revealed its product plans for 2026 at its Chinese New Year event for the media yesterday night, and it’s more than just the Stargazer MPV and Ioniq N EVs that are coming. In the second quarter, the company will launch CKD versions of the Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe SUVs.
Both the C- and D-segment SUVs were part of HMY’s launch model line-up, including the Staria MPV. The latter has since gone the CKD route – the locally assembled Staria went on sale in Q4 last year. The MPV rolls off the line at Sime Motors’ Inokom plant in Kulim, Kedah, and the Tucson and Santa Fe will follow suit very soon.
The CBU South Korea fourth-generation Tucson facelift was launched in July 2025. We get a base Style 2.0 MPi (NA) with 156 PS/192 Nm paired to a six-speed torque converter automatic, priced at RM143,888. After that, it’s the Prime and Prestige with a 1.6 T-GDi with 180 PS/265 Nm. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic sends drive to the front wheels (Prime, RM164,888) or all corners when needed (Prestige, RM186,888).
New to Malaysia is the 1.6-litre turbo hybrid powertrain in the Prestige 1.6 T-GDi Hybrid. The RM197,888 range-topper has a total system output of 235 PS/367 Nm and is paired to a six-speed auto.
The boxy fifth-generation Santa Fe serves those who need a third row of seats, and there are two hybrids and one petrol option. The HEV versions (Prime RM225,000, Prestige RM245,000) get the same 1.6T and e-motor combo as the Tucson Hybrid, and are FWD.
The top Santa Fe is the 2.5 T-GDi HTRAC Calligraphy, priced at RM270,000. It’s moved by a 2.5-litre T-GDi with 281 PS and 422 Nm between 1,700 and 4,000 rpm, mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel drive. No more diesel option. The Calligraphy is the only trim level with second-row captain’s chairs, Nappa leather and dual sunroofs. Both the Tucson and Santa Fe come with an eight-year, 160,000 km factory warranty.
