The Hyundai Grand Santa Fe (NC, facelift 2016) 2.2 CRDI AWD Automatic represents a significant offering in Hyundai’s mid-size SUV lineup, produced from 2016 to 2018. Positioned as a larger, more spacious alternative to the standard Santa Fe, the Grand Santa Fe was primarily aimed at families requiring three-row seating. This particular variant, equipped with the 2.2-liter CRDI diesel engine producing 200 horsepower and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive, was a key model in European and Asian markets where diesel SUVs were highly popular. It offered a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and a relatively refined driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Santa Fe |
| Generation | Grand Santa Fe (NC, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 CRDI (200 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 184 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp, 104.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 230.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | R II / D4HB |
| Engine displacement | 2199 cm3 (134.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85.4 mm (3.36 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.1 l (9.62 US qt | 8.01 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1906-2043 kg (4202.01 – 4504.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2600 kg (5732.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 557-694 kg (1227.97 – 1530.01 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 634 l (22.39 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1842 l (65.05 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 71 l (18.76 US gal | 15.62 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4905 mm (193.11 in.) |
| Width | 1885 mm (74.21 in.) |
| Height | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1628 mm (64.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1639 mm (64.53 in.) |
| Front overhang | 955 mm (37.6 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1150 mm (45.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 180 mm (7.09 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | 235/60 R18; 235/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Hyundai Grand Santa Fe (NC, facelift 2016) 2.2 CRDI AWD Automatic was introduced as part of a mid-cycle refresh for the NC generation Santa Fe. Building upon the original Grand Santa Fe launched in 2013, the 2016 facelift brought updated styling, improved interior materials, and enhanced safety features. This variant specifically targeted buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and fuel-efficient SUV with the added security of all-wheel drive. It occupied a middle ground within the Grand Santa Fe range, offering a balance between the more affordable 2.0-liter petrol engine and the higher-performance 2.4-liter options.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Grand Santa Fe variant lies the Hyundai R II 2.2-liter CRDI diesel engine, designated with the code D4HB. This engine is an inline-four cylinder unit featuring a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head. It utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine benefits from a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler, enhancing both power and torque output. The 200 horsepower peak is achieved at 3800 rpm, while the substantial 440 Nm (324.53 lb.-ft.) of torque is available between 1750 and 2750 rpm, providing strong pulling power at lower engine speeds. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission is electronically controlled and features adaptive shift logic, adjusting shift points based on driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2 CRDI Automatic Grand Santa Fe delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it well-suited for everyday driving and effortless highway cruising. While not a sports SUV, the 200 horsepower output provides adequate acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 9.4 seconds. The automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly, although it can occasionally feel hesitant during quick acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offers greater convenience but slightly diminishes responsiveness. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in adverse weather conditions, making it a capable vehicle for year-round use. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, prioritizing comfortable cruising over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Grand Santa Fe 2.2 CRDI AWD Automatic typically came well-equipped, even in base trim levels. Standard features often included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system. Safety features were also comprehensive, including ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth in lower trims, upgrading to leather in higher-spec models. Dashboard configuration was generally consistent across trims, with a focus on user-friendliness and practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand Santa Fe utilizes a front independent McPherson strut suspension and a rear independent multi-link suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling. The all-wheel-drive system contributes to improved stability and traction, particularly on slippery surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Grand Santa Fe 2.2 CRDI AWD Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. The diesel engine was noted for its strong torque output and relatively quiet operation. However, some critics found the automatic transmission to be slightly sluggish at times. Compared to other trims in the Grand Santa Fe lineup, the 2.2 CRDI Automatic offered a compelling balance of performance and economy. It was more fuel-efficient than the petrol-powered versions, while offering more power and torque than the base 2.0-liter engine. Its main competitors included the Kia Sorento, Toyota Highlander, and Ford Explorer.
Legacy
The Hyundai Grand Santa Fe 2.2 CRDI AWD Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The R II diesel engine is known for its durability, although regular maintenance is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. Common issues include diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, particularly on vehicles that are primarily driven on short trips. The automatic transmission is generally reliable, but fluid changes should be performed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Today, these Grand Santa Fes represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and fuel-efficient SUV with all-wheel drive. Their availability and relatively affordable price point make them an attractive option in the used car market.
