The Hyundai Santa Fe II (CM) 2.2 CRDi 4WD, produced between 2006 and 2009, represents a significant step forward for Hyundai in the mid-size SUV segment. Positioned as a more premium offering within the CM Santa Fe range, this variant combined a robust diesel engine with a capable four-wheel-drive system. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets where diesel-powered SUVs were highly sought after. The CM generation Santa Fe, built on the Hyundai-Kia Y6 platform, aimed to provide a blend of comfort, practicality, and all-weather capability, appealing to families and individuals needing a versatile vehicle. This specific 2.2 CRDi 4WD trim sat in the mid-to-upper range of the lineup, offering more performance and features than the base models but remaining more accessible than the fully-loaded options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Santa Fe |
| Generation | Santa Fe II (CM) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 CRDi (155 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 190 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11 sec |
| Maximum speed | 179 km/h (111.23 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp, 85 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 188.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 155 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 343 Nm @ 1800-2500 rpm (252.98 lb.-ft. @ 1800-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4EB |
| Engine displacement | 2188 cm3 (133.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.4 l (8.88 US qt | 7.39 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1823-1916 kg (4019.03 – 4224.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2570 kg (5665.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 654-747 kg (1441.82 – 1646.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 528 l (18.65 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 88 kg (194.01 lbs.) |
| Length | 4675 mm (184.06 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Front overhang | 940 mm (37.01 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1035 mm (40.75 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 203 mm (7.99 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.38 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels permanently, and the rear wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17; 235/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Santa Fe II 2.2 CRDi 4WD is the Hyundai D4EB engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a second-generation common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The D4EB features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating four valves per cylinder. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and torque. The engine’s 17.3:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The 4WD system is a part-time system, engaging the rear wheels when traction is lost or via a driver-selectable mode. The transmission is a 5-speed manual, chosen for its durability and relative simplicity.
Driving Characteristics
The 155 horsepower and 343 Nm (253 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.2 CRDi engine offered a reasonable balance of performance and fuel economy. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11 seconds, which was adequate for everyday driving but not particularly sporty. The engine’s torque curve was relatively flat, providing good pulling power from low engine speeds, making it well-suited for towing or navigating challenging terrain. The 5-speed manual transmission had gear ratios geared towards fuel efficiency rather than outright acceleration. Compared to the higher-output 2.0-liter petrol versions, the 2.2 CRDi offered significantly more torque and better fuel economy, but at the expense of some top-end power. The 4WD system provided enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it a capable all-weather vehicle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 CRDi 4WD trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with radio, and alloy wheels. Safety features included ABS brakes, front airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. Optional extras often included a sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a more advanced audio system. The interior was generally well-appointed for its class, with a focus on practicality and durability. The dashboard layout was functional and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Santa Fe II featured an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. The hydraulic power steering provided light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Santa Fe II 2.2 CRDi 4WD was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and capable 4WD system. The diesel engine was noted for its fuel efficiency and strong torque output. However, some critics found the acceleration to be somewhat sluggish and the interior materials to be less refined than those found in some of its competitors. Compared to rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, the Santa Fe offered a more affordable price point and a longer warranty. Fuel economy was competitive, typically achieving around 33-39 mpg on the combined cycle.
Legacy
The Hyundai Santa Fe II 2.2 CRDi 4WD has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the D4EB engine generally considered to be durable. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components and potential problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if the vehicle is primarily used for short trips. In the used car market, these Santa Fes represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, capable, and fuel-efficient SUV. The CM generation Santa Fe helped establish Hyundai as a serious contender in the mid-size SUV segment, paving the way for future generations of the popular model.
