The production version of the new three-row, seven-passenger Santa Fe made its world debut at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. The all-new Santa Fe delivers Hyundai’s recipe of bold design, high-output powertrains with Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and a host of features to please drivers and passengers with high expectations for functionality, versatility and comfort. The three-row Santa Fe increases second-row legroom by 1.9 inches and cargo capacity 5.5 cubic feet and features standard rear-passenger HVAC controls and vents to increase family comfort, while also offering a standard 50:50 split folding third-row bench seat with 31.5 inches of legroom. Second row captain’s chairs are also available on the three-row Santa Fe.
The Santa Fe is powered by the 3.3-liter V6 engine, which is also found in the Hyundai Azera. This V6 engine will suit a shopper’s needs in terms of towing, drivability and fuel economy. The Santa Fe’s Lambda II 3.3-liter GDI also has a high-pressure direct injection system (over 2,200 psi), which dramatically increases power and torque, while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. This system eliminates the need for a large displacement V6 engine and increases the compression ratio for greater thermal efficiency and output. Santa Fe’s V6 tow rating of up to 5,000 pounds is perfect for towing small boats or weekend toys. The Lambda V6 engine is mated to Hyundai’s six-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic manual control. This transmission offers smooth shifts and a wide ratio spread that suits the engine’s characteristics. An automatic transmission warmer is included to keep the transmission oil at its optimal temperature, which improves real-world fuel economy.
Optionally available Active Cornering Control All-Wheel-Drive system cooperatively controls torque and braking in conjunction with the Vehicle Stability Management System. This system can anticipate traction requirements and deliver additional stability through braking via continuous monitoring of driving conditions compared with other AWD systems, which can only react to conditions after they occur. The Dynamax AWD system supplied by Magna Powertrain access an intelligent control unit that continuously analyzes data from the vehicle controller and distributes torque to any single wheel at a time through a multi-clutch plate. The coupling system is fully controllable via an electro-hydraulic actuation system. Braking force can also be sent to any single wheel at a time via the software. Advantages of the Active Cornering Control AWD system are improved lateral stability while cornering, removal of unintended over- and under-steer and high thermal capacity, which helps prevent overheating during hill climbs and trailer towing
The two-row, five-passenger Santa Fe Sport has been on sale since August and this new Santa Fe will be joining it early next year.
