Korean brand Hyundai recently had a lightly modified version of its Santa Fe SUV set a new milestone, and to celebrate 500 special ‘Endurance’ models are to be sold in the UK.
Shackleton’s Return
In December 2016, Patrick Bergel, great grandson of famous polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, took a near-standard Santa Fe model on a 30-day expedition in Antartica to commemorate the centenary of his great grandfather doing the very same journey between 1914 and 1916. This ambitious challenge also marked the first time ever that a passenger vehicle has completed this route. The only modifications the Santa Fe needed were larger tyres, a bigger fuel tank and a pre heater for the cold.
Endurance
So to celebrate this achievement, the Korean brand will produce 500 ‘Endurance’ models, which is based on the 2.2 litre diesel AWD Premium SE trim with convenience pack. It now represents the top of the range for the Santa Fe, and is able to offer features such as electric tailgate, panoramic sunroof, AEB, smart cruise control and around view monitor.
On top of this, it will have model specific touches such as the Endurance logo on the B-pillar and also on the floor mats as well. The eye-catching logo commemorates Shackleton’s Endurance expedition and features the Shackleton Family Motto and a 28-point compass representing the 28 crew that survived.
It will be available in a choice of five colours – solid Creamy White, pearl White Crystal, metallic Titanium Silver, pearl Phantom Black and metallic Mineral Blue – the same colour as that of Bergel’s expedition car. This new model will be available to order from the 18th of May, with prices starting from £38,995, representing a £2,400 saving over a standard Premium SE with Convenience Pack and Automatic transmission.
