The Hyundai Galloper II 2.5 TD, producing 99 horsepower, was a significant model in Hyundai’s lineup from 2000 to 2003. Positioned as a rugged, body-on-frame SUV, the Galloper II aimed to provide a capable and affordable four-wheel-drive vehicle, primarily targeting markets outside of North America where larger, traditional SUVs remained popular. It represented Hyundai’s continued development in the SUV segment, building upon the original Galloper which was based on the Mitsubishi Pajero. This 2.5 TD variant occupied a middle ground in the Galloper II range, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy compared to potential gasoline engine options (which were less common in export markets) and higher-output diesel versions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Galloper |
| Generation | Galloper II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 TD (99 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2003 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 14.4 l/100 km (16.3 US mpg, 19.6 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 21.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 21.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 20.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 136 km/h (84.51 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18.6 kg/Hp, 53.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm, 122 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 99 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 40 Hp/l |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 2000 rpm (165.95 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | D4BH |
| Engine displacement | 2476 cm3 (151.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 91.1 mm (3.59 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 21:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt, 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1845 kg (4067.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2550 kg (5621.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 705 kg (1554.26 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1080 l (38.14 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2050 l (72.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 92 l (24.3 US gal, 20.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 4685 mm (184.45 in.) |
| Width | 1785 mm (70.28 in.) |
| Height | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2695 mm (106.1 in.) |
| Front track | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Torsion |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/75 R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Galloper II 2.5 TD was powered by the Hyundai D4BH engine, a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilized a precombustion chamber injection system, a common technology for diesel engines of the era, designed to improve combustion efficiency and reduce noise. The addition of a turbocharger boosted output to 99 horsepower at 3800 rpm and 225 Nm (165.95 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine featured an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the chassis. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a relatively deep gearing setup suited for off-road use and hauling loads.
Driving Characteristics
The 99 hp 2.5 TD with a manual transmission offered modest performance. Acceleration was slow, with a 0-60 mph time around 20.6 seconds. However, the engine’s torque output provided reasonable pulling power, making it suitable for towing and navigating challenging terrain. The manual gearbox allowed for greater control over the engine’s powerband, particularly useful in off-road situations. Compared to potential higher-output diesel versions, this variant prioritized fuel economy and affordability over outright speed. The gearing was optimized for low-end torque, meaning highway cruising required higher engine speeds, potentially leading to increased noise and vibration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Galloper II 2.5 TD typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its positioning as a workhorse SUV. Standard features generally included power steering, air conditioning (depending on the market), and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, utilitarian design. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, and power windows. Trim levels varied by market, but generally focused on adding cosmetic enhancements rather than significant mechanical upgrades.
Chassis & Braking
The Galloper II utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing robust durability and off-road capability. The front suspension employed a torsion bar setup, while the rear suspension utilized coil springs. This configuration offered a good balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was included as a standard safety feature. The vehicle’s relatively high weight and modest power output meant that braking performance was adequate but not exceptional.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Galloper II 2.5 TD was generally well-received as a capable and affordable SUV, particularly in markets where larger, body-on-frame vehicles remained popular. Critics noted its rugged construction, decent fuel economy, and reasonable price point. Compared to other trims in the Galloper II lineup, the 2.5 TD offered a more economical option for buyers who didn’t require the extra power of the higher-output diesel engines. Its fuel economy was competitive with similar vehicles of the time, but its acceleration and top speed were noticeably slower. Reliability was generally considered good, although maintenance costs could be higher compared to more modern SUVs due to the older diesel technology.
Legacy
The Hyundai Galloper II, and specifically the 2.5 TD variant, represents an important step in Hyundai’s development as a global automotive manufacturer. While not widely sold in North America, it established Hyundai as a credible competitor in the SUV segment in other parts of the world. The D4BH engine, while now aging, proved to be a relatively durable and reliable powerplant. Today, the Galloper II is gaining a following among enthusiasts who appreciate its rugged simplicity and off-road capability. Used examples are relatively affordable, but finding well-maintained vehicles can be challenging. Parts availability can also be an issue, particularly for specific trim components. However, for those seeking a classic, capable, and affordable SUV, the Galloper II 2.5 TD remains a viable option.
