2019 Hyundai Santa Fe – Comfortable Ride, Steering Feel and Stable Handling. 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe – Drive, Interior and Exterior. Subscribe.
The all-new Santa Fe and Santa Fe Diesel are the third and fourth of eight new or re-engineered crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) Hyundai is debuting by 2020. Both models are bold SUVs that build on previous generations with outstanding driving dynamics and features aimed at technology and comfort.
The five-passenger Santa Fe Sport will now be called Santa Fe. The current long wheelbase three-row, seven-passenger model called Santa Fe will be renamed Santa Fe XL for the 2019 model year. An all-new three-row, eight-passenger SUV is currently under development and will carry an all-new name. The diesel version of the 2019 Santa Fe will also get an occasional-use third-row seat with one-touch folding second-row seats for easier access to the third row. The third-row seat will only be available on the Santa Fe diesel.
The 2019 Santa Fe line-up offers a choice of three proven powertrains. There is a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder GDI engine with 185 horsepower or a more powerful, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower (estimated). And the 2.2-liter CRDi turbodiesel engine is the 2019 Santa Fe’s biggest surprise, with 190 horsepower at 3,800 rpm and 322 lb. ft. of torque at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm (estimated). All engines are mated to a brand-new eight-speed automatic transmission.
The newly developed transmission provides quick and crisp shifts for a more engaging and efficient driving experience via the available column-mounted paddles. Despite having two extra gears, the eight-speed transmission, which was designed in-house, is lighter than the outgoing six-speed model. The automatic transmission adds ratio range at both the top and bottom of output speeds allowing for extra thrust off-the-line and a quieter, more fuel-efficient dash down the interstate. A multi-disc and individually controlled hydraulic channel torque converter improves responsiveness by expanding the direct connection band, while a downsized oil pump and double ball bearings minimize friction loss.
The 2019 Santa Fe has Hyundai’s HTRAC® All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system. The HTRAC AWD system was developed as a multi-mode system, providing an electronic, variable-torque-split clutch with active torque control between the front and rear axles. The driver-selectable HTRAC Normal, Sport and Smart modes help provide confident control in all weather conditions. The Sport setting gives a more agile feel by sending more available torque to the rear wheels, for a sporty dynamic feel when desired. This system has a wider range of torque distribution variability than many competitive systems and has been tuned to conditions such as straight-line acceleration, medium- and high-speed cornering, and hill starts.
The face of the new Santa Fe is highlighted by Hyundai’s signature Cascading Grille and a Composite Light design comprising LED Daytime Running Lights positioned on top of the LED headlights. The exterior design is characterized by a powerful wide stance and an athletic body that makes a statement from 100 feet away. It’s a bold look that is enhanced by refined lines that reinforce the vehicle’s status in Hyundai’s SUV lineup.
The profile of the Santa Fe features a dynamic character line that goes all the way from the headlights to the taillights and a larger daylight opening (DLO) with a satin surround that provides a sleek impression along with better visibility. Featured diamond-cut 19-inch wheels communicate strength, as does the car’s rear appearance, now featuring a muscular high and taut shape.
Improved ride comfort, handling and stability are achieved through key developments in the suspension geometry of the 2019 Santa Fe. The biggest change sees the rear shock moved upright from an angled position, improving the ride and handling no matter the driving conditions.
An optional self-load-leveling suspension provides the Santa Fe with a continuous ride height even while towing or carrying heavier cargo. This system allows Hyundai engineers to tune the rear suspension for comfort and avoid making it too firm for occasional trailer use.
The Santa Fe interior design combines premium quality with a roomy layout featuring a strong horizontal design theme and enhanced visibility. Premium touches such as the layered, three-dimensional instrument panel and contrasting seat stitching ensures a high level of luxury within the cabin. The Santa Fe’s larger DLO enhances the interior’s feeling of openness with generous amounts of natural light.
