The Hyundai Santa Fe TM, produced from 2018 to 2020, represented the fourth generation of Hyundai’s popular mid-size SUV. The R 2.0 CRDi variant, equipped with a 150 horsepower diesel engine and a four-wheel-drive system paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, was a significant offering within the European and Asian markets. This configuration aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and all-weather capability for family buyers. It occupied a mid-range position in the Santa Fe lineup, slotting below the more powerful diesel options and above the base petrol models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Santa Fe |
| Generation | Santa Fe IV (TM) |
| Type | R 2.0 CRDi (150 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 397 Nm @ 1750 rpm / 292.81 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | R II / D4HA |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 / 121.74 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm / 3.31 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm / 3.54 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l / 6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt |
| Coolant | 8.8 l / 9.3 US qt | 7.74 UK qt |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 625 l / 22.07 cu. ft. |
| Length | 4770 mm / 187.8 in. |
| Width | 1890 mm / 74.41 in. |
| Height | 1680 mm / 66.14 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2765 mm / 108.86 in. |
| Front overhang | 940 mm / 37.01 in. |
| Rear overhang | 1065 mm / 41.93 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 185 mm / 7.28 in. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17; 235/60 R18; 235/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Santa Fe R 2.0 CRDi was the Hyundai R II diesel engine, specifically the D4HA variant. This 1995cc inline-four cylinder engine utilized a second-generation common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and torque, mitigating turbo lag and improving efficiency. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, further enhanced breathing and performance. The engine was designed to meet stringent Euro 6 emissions standards, incorporating a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to reduce harmful emissions. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Hyundai’s own development, was chosen for its smooth shifting and efficiency. It offered a wide range of gear ratios to optimize engine performance for both highway cruising and city driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 hp and 397 Nm (292.81 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.0 CRDi engine delivered adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was respectable, with a 0-60 mph time estimated around 9.5-10.5 seconds. The eight-speed automatic transmission generally shifted smoothly, but could occasionally feel hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the more powerful 2.2 CRDi variants, the 2.0 CRDi offered a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright speed. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it a suitable choice for drivers in regions with inclement weather. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, with higher gears engaged at lower speeds to reduce engine revs and conserve fuel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The R 2.0 CRDi Automatic typically came well-equipped, reflecting its mid-range positioning. Standard features often included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Higher trim levels offered features like a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Wheel sizes varied depending on the trim level, ranging from 17-inch to 19-inch alloy wheels.
Chassis & Braking
The Santa Fe TM utilized a front-wheel-drive based platform with an all-wheel-drive option. The suspension consisted of MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. The all-wheel-drive system employed a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system was assisted by ABS and ESC, ensuring stable and controlled stopping power. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Santa Fe R 2.0 CRDi Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the 150 hp engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. Compared to the 2.2 CRDi models, the 2.0 CRDi offered a more affordable entry point into the Santa Fe range, but at the expense of performance. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined cycle figures typically around 45-50 mpg (depending on driving conditions and wheel size). Reliability was generally good, with few reported issues specific to the 2.0 CRDi powertrain.
Legacy
The Hyundai Santa Fe TM R 2.0 CRDi Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The R II diesel engine, while not known for being exceptionally powerful, is generally robust and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. The eight-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be dependable. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, filter replacements, and periodic DPF regeneration. As with any diesel vehicle, it’s important to ensure the DPF is functioning correctly to avoid costly repairs. Today, these Santa Fes represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and fuel-efficient SUV with all-wheel-drive capability.
