
The all-new 4th generation Santa Fe is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine paired with an 8AT transmission, providing ample power reserves for daily use. The classic Hyundai Santa Fe used 4AT and 6AT transmissions. AT transmission is a widely used automatic transmission that connects to the engine via a torque converter. The AT transmission employs a soft connection with the engine. While its transmission efficiency is lower than manual or dual-clutch transmissions, it offers superior shift smoothness compared to both. The classic Hyundai Santa Fe utilized a 2.4L naturally aspirated engine and a 2.7L naturally aspirated engine. The 2.4L engine delivers a maximum power of 128kW and maximum torque of 225Nm, with peak power at 6000rpm and peak torque at 3750rpm, featuring multi-point fuel injection technology. The 2.7L engine produces a maximum power of 138kW and maximum torque of 248Nm, with peak power at 6000rpm and peak torque at 4000rpm, incorporating CVVT technology and multi-point fuel injection. Both engines employ aluminum alloy cylinder heads and blocks.

I've been driving the fourth-generation Santa Fe for over two years, and the engine performance has been quite reliable. The 2.0T turbocharged engine delivers smooth and powerful power output, with no hesitation during acceleration or overtaking. Noise control is also good during highway cruising, and fuel consumption in the city is kept at around 9 liters, which is reasonable. The transmission is an 8AT automatic, which shifts smoothly with minimal hesitation, making daily driving very comfortable. Occasionally, it might hesitate slightly in congested traffic, but it's not a significant issue. Over the long term, there haven't been any major problems, and maintenance is straightforward with regular oil changes. Hyundai's powertrain system is well-designed overall, meeting the demands of SUV driving with a stable engine and intelligent transmission logic. It's safe and worry-free to drive, making it ideal for family trips.

From a technical perspective, the engine and transmission of the 4th generation Santa Fe are indeed impressive. Hyundai has utilized Smartstream technology to optimize combustion efficiency, resulting in a responsive engine that delivers power immediately upon throttle input while maintaining fuel economy. The 8-speed automatic transmission offers smooth shifting, making it suitable for both city commuting and long-distance driving, with well-designed gear ratios that minimize shift lag. The robust materials used in core components reduce wear risks, ensuring stable engine temperature control during daily driving and vibration-free transmission performance even under rapid acceleration. Overall, this powertrain combination has earned a strong reputation for reliability among car enthusiasts. Combined with Hyundai's recent brand elevation, the consistent power output rarely encounters faults, with moderate maintenance costs and high value for money, making it a trustworthy choice.

I believe the fourth-generation Santa Fe's powertrain exhibits strong durability, with its engine based on the mature Theta platform design, capable of running over a hundred thousand kilometers with minimal major repairs. The transmission is well-matched, providing quiet and stable operation with rare occurrences of oil leaks or jerking. It's hassle-free for daily use with affordable maintenance, making it suitable for long-term ownership without constant tinkering.


