2010 Hyundai Sante Fe facelift spy photos in Death Valley

New spy photos of the 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe have just surfaced.  The facelifted model was photographed in Death Valley, likely during hot weather testing in the United States.  Although some official photos of the vehicle have surfaced before, these latest photos show the new Santa Fe from several different previously unseen angles.

The SUV will get a redesigned front end, including styling changes to the grille, and headlights.  A new front bumper incorporates foglights in a different way than the current model.  New door handles are featured on the doors which appear to stretch a little closer to the ground.

Rear taillights get a clear redesign, with some white-out features, but so does the hatchback itself.  Comparing the lines of the hatch against the 2009 model year makes it look like the door is quite a bit narrower.  The dual tailpipes also feature a different shape.

The driver is expected to be greeted with a new, leather, multifunction steering wheel, and a refreshed console and instrument cluster.  New customers should also get a wider range of interior color choices.  Rear camera, push button ignition, and an adjustable suspension are the anticipated options.

The 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe is believed to be on sale domestically in Korea this month, while US sales could begin by the end of the year.