
The differences between the 2018 Santana and the 2019 Santana are as follows: 1. Different 0-100 km/h acceleration times: the 2018 Santana takes 11.4s, while the 2019 Santana takes 12.6s. 2. Different fuel tank capacities: the 2018 Santana has a 55-liter tank, while the 2019 Santana has a 52.8-liter tank. Other differences include: 1. Different length and height: the 2018 Santana is 4475mm long and 1469mm high, while the 2019 Santana is 4282mm long and 1489mm high. 2. Different power outputs: the 2018 Santana has a maximum horsepower of 110ps, a maximum power of 81kw, and a maximum torque of 150nm; the 2019 Santana has a maximum horsepower of 112ps, a maximum power of 82kw, and a maximum torque of 145nm.

As a long-time Santana owner, I've driven both the 2018 and 2019 models. The biggest upgrade in the 2019 version is that the entire lineup meets the China VI emission standards, which is particularly important in cities with driving restrictions. The mid-range models received some solid upgrades - for example, the Fashion trim added TPMS and alloy wheels, plus more durable seat fabrics. However, the higher-end models actually downgraded by removing the automatic AC. It still uses the same 1.5L naturally aspirated engine with 112 horsepower, adequate for daily use, paired with the classic 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. If emission standards aren't a concern for you, leftover 2018 models could save you around 10,000 yuan.

Recently helped a friend check out used Santanas, carefully comparing these two model years. The exterior remains largely unchanged, except the 2019 version updated wheel designs on some trims with added machined lines for a sportier look. The biggest interior differences lie in configurations: the 2019 manual base trim gained rear parking sensors and upgraded to 185mm wide tires for better highway stability. However, the automatic top trim actually downgraded, losing the leather-wrapped steering wheel and front fog lights. Both generations share nearly identical chassis tuning with that characteristically stiff ride over speed bumps. Personally, I'd say the 2019 version suits beginners better given the additional safety features.

I've researched the facelift strategy of the Santana. The 2018 to 2019 models were minor annual updates, with no changes to the core three major components. The 2019 version mainly adapted to adjustments, upgrading the entire lineup to meet the China 6 emission standards. Configuration-wise, they made additions and subtractions: the base model added tire pressure monitoring and upgraded alloy wheels, while mid-to-high trims surprisingly removed fog lights and rear cup holders. When purchasing, check the production date on the nameplate - cars produced in the second half of 2018 might already comply with China 6 standards. In terms of pricing, the MSRP for both new and old models is similar, but the 2018 version offers greater discounts.

The Santana, as a family car, hasn't seen significant changes across model years, but the 2019 version has a few noteworthy updates: it switched to electric power steering across all trims, making low-speed steering much lighter. The base model now comes with 16-inch wheels, whereas the 2018 version had 15-inch ones. The air conditioning system was upgraded to automatic climate control for all trims, but the higher trim lost the heated mirrors. The most annoying change is that the 2019 model removed the trunk lighting! The car holds its value reasonably well, with the 2019 version typically selling for about 3,000 to 5,000 yuan more than the 2018 version of the same age.

The driving experience between the 2018 and 2019 Santana models feels quite similar, with the 1.5L engine + 6AT combination remaining as sluggish as ever. The 2019 version has optimized the material used for the underbody guard, resulting in slightly less noise when driving over gravel roads. The interior now offers a dark gray color option, which is much more stain-resistant compared to the beige of the 2018 model. The seat padding has also been changed to a different supplier, making them less prone to sagging over time. One downside is that the cost for the 2019 model has increased, with minor services costing around a hundred yuan more. Overall, the 2019 model is more in line with the China VI emission standards trend, but the 2018 model offers a more attractive price.


