The Hyundai Santa Fe I (SM), produced from 2000 to 2006, represented a significant step for the Korean automaker into the burgeoning compact SUV market. This first-generation Santa Fe, built on the SM platform, aimed to offer a more affordable and spacious alternative to established Japanese and American competitors. The 2.4 i 16V 4WD variant, equipped with a 2.4-liter inline-four engine producing 150 horsepower, was positioned as a mid-range offering, balancing capability with fuel efficiency. It served as a key model in establishing Hyundai’s reputation for value and practicality in the North American and European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Santa Fe |
| Generation | Santa Fe I (SM) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 i 16V 4WD (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2006 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg, 7.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 173 km/h (107.5 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp, 89.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm, 123 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 206 Nm @ 4800 rpm (151.94 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Sirius / G4JS |
| Engine displacement | 2351 cm3 (143.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.5 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1675 kg (3692.74 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 469 l (16.56 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1473 l (52.02 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4500 mm (177.17 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Height | 1655 mm (65.16 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| 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 | 225/70 R16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2.4 i 4WD Santa Fe was the Hyundai Sirius engine, internally designated G4JS. This 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output for its displacement. The engine utilized a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port. The 10:1 compression ratio was a common figure for naturally aspirated gasoline engines of the era, balancing performance and fuel efficiency. The engine’s all-aluminum construction helped to keep weight down. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a relatively direct connection between the engine and the wheels. The 4WD system was a part-time setup, engaging the rear wheels when traction was needed, enhancing stability in adverse conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4-liter engine in the Santa Fe provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.8 seconds, making it competitive with other compact SUVs of the time. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but the engine lacked the low-end torque found in larger displacement engines. Compared to the later V6 options available on the Santa Fe, the 2.4L felt less powerful, particularly when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. However, the 2.4L offered a more fuel-efficient driving experience, and the manual transmission provided a more engaging driving feel than the optional four-speed automatic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4 i 4WD Santa Fe typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM stereo. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a relatively simple and functional dashboard layout. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and alloy wheels. The 4WD system itself was a significant feature, setting this trim apart from the base front-wheel-drive models. Safety features included dual front airbags and ABS brakes.
Chassis & Braking
The Santa Fe I utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension employed a wishbone design, while the rear suspension utilized a coil spring setup. The 2.4 i 4WD model featured ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for its weight class. The hydraulic power steering offered a reasonable level of assistance, making maneuvering easy. The 4WD system added to the vehicle’s overall weight, but also improved its handling and stability, especially on slippery surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Santa Fe I was generally well-received by critics as a value-oriented SUV. The 2.4-liter engine was considered adequate for most drivers, but some reviewers noted its lack of outright power compared to competitors. Fuel economy was a strong point, and the 4WD system added to its appeal in regions with inclement weather. Compared to the V6-powered Santa Fe models, the 2.4L offered a lower price point and better fuel efficiency, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, the V6 models provided significantly more performance and were often preferred by those who frequently towed or carried heavy loads.
Legacy
The Hyundai Santa Fe I, particularly the 2.4 i 4WD variant, proved to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The Sirius engine, while not known for being particularly sophisticated, was generally robust and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. Today, well-maintained examples of the first-generation Santa Fe can still be found on the used car market, often at very affordable prices. While not a collector’s item, the Santa Fe I holds a significant place in Hyundai’s history as the model that helped establish the brand as a serious contender in the SUV segment. Its blend of affordability, practicality, and available all-wheel drive made it a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a versatile and dependable vehicle.
