HYUNDAI'S Santa Fe has just undergone a modest makeover in line with the long-established automotive industry practice of keeping cars fresh and appealing mid-way though their model cycle.

So, what's new?

There's new bumpers and lights, a few other minor exterior trim modifications, new alloy wheel options and on the inside the cabin has been given an upgrade with new materials and modifications.

On the technology front there's a new satellite navigation system and DAB radio has been introduced in order to keep the Santa Fe abreast of the digital age.

There are also enhanced safety features, including brakes that engage themselves if the need arises and adaptive cruise control, one of those high-tech driver aids that signals a step closer towards the autonomous cars of the future.

The Santa Fe has always been a popular model and the previous generation version proved a big seller in the UK.

The current model has continued that trend and in many ways it's a vehicle in which Hyundai has got pretty much everything right.

It looks good and really manages to fulfil the tricky task of being one of those sleek and stylish SUVs that also manages to deliver the practicality associated with a more traditional boxy 4x4.

An imposing and purposeful front end combine with a rising window line at the back to create a vehicle that is certainly alluring and appealing.

Inside the cabin is roomy and there's a third row of two seats which fold flat into the boot floor. Access to the third row is tricky and they offer limited legroom - though the middle bench does slide forward. Another upgrade in the latest version is added slideability for that middle row.

With all seats in place the boot will still manage to hold a family shop or a similar quantity of bits and bobs, but comes more into its own with the rear seats folded.

Switchgear, instrumentation and fit and finish impress overall, even if the switchgear and plastics aren't quite up to premium segment quality levels.

Although there is just one engine available - a 2.2-litre diesel - buyers can opt for six-speed manual or automatic transmissions, two-wheel or four-wheel drive and three trim levels.

The engine has been given a modest power hike and is a little cleaner and greener as part of the mid-life makeover.

It delivers plenty of power smoothly and is reasonably refined too.

Overall the Santa Fe is a decent enough car to drive. There's a little bit of pitch and roll but it goes around corners pretty well and offers a comfortable ride.