Hyundai’s its third generation Santa Fe SUV will go on sale next year and the Korean brand has revealed first official images.

The Santa Fe has achieved worldwide cumulative sales of almost 2,56 million units, and more than 350,000 in Europe, since its 2000 debut.

Hyundai expects this new-generation model to continue the company’s performance in the SUV market, and to capture more than 5% share of its market segment in Europe during its first full year on sale in 2013.

The company expects the Santa Fe to appeal to new consumers from a wider demographic range – including some owners of premium-brand SUVs.

View all the pictures of the new Santa Fe in AM's gallery section.

Three engine options will be available to European buyers, including a new, Euro VI- compliant 2,0-litre ‘R’ VGT diesel engine. Producing 148bhp, this new engine emits 155g/km of CO2.

The 2,2-litre diesel unit has been tuned for greater efficiency with CO2 emissions of 145 g/km.

Hyundai engineers have tuned the new model specifically for European drivers with modifications to steering, suspension and brakes, as well as changes to the car’s set-up to aid high-speed stability and towing ability.

As with all newly-launched models in Europe, the new Santa Fe will come with Hyundai’s Five Year Triple Care package– comprising a five-year unlimited warranty, five years of roadside assistance, and five years of vehicle health checks.