Updated Hyundai Santa Fe prototype catches fire during test drive

Updated Hyundai Santa Fe prototype unexpectedly burst into flames during a test drive / Photo: Hotcars.com

An updated Hyundai Santa Fe prototype unexpectedly burst into flames and was almost completely destroyed during a scheduled test drive in South Korea. According to HotCars, smoke began coming from under the hood shortly after the drive started, but the driver managed to pull over and exit the vehicle in time.

The destroyed Santa Fe was a facelifted crossover, with no significant structural changes expected / Photo: Hotcars.com

Although this was a test vehicle not released to consumers, the incident sparked criticism. The primary concern is that the burned Santa Fe was a restyled model.

Experts and social media users point out that a facelift typically does not involve radical changes to the engine or electrical wiring. This has raised concerns that a similar fault could potentially exist in vehicles already on public roads worldwide.

Owners of the latest-generation Santa Fe crossover SUVs have entered a state of heightened alert due to possible safety risks.

The cause of the fire remains unknown. In 2025, Hyundai recalled about 140,000 Santa Fe vehicles because faulty starter motors could cause fires after a crash. This problem did not affect the test-drive incident, so the recall does not appear to be related.

Uncertainty surrounding the prototype’s powertrain has further fueled speculation, including whether it was equipped with a combustion engine or an extended-range electric drivetrain. The manufacturer has pledged to conduct a thorough investigation.