The Hyundai Santa Fe II (CM) 2.7L V6 4WD, produced from 2006 to 2009, represented a significant step forward for Hyundai in the increasingly competitive mid-size SUV segment. Part of the second generation Santa Fe (CM), this variant offered a blend of family practicality, available all-wheel drive, and a relatively powerful V6 engine. It was positioned as a mid-range offering within the CM lineup, slotting above the base 2.4L four-cylinder models and below potential limited edition or higher trim levels that might have featured additional luxury appointments. The CM generation Santa Fe aimed to provide a more refined and spacious alternative to compact crossovers while remaining accessible in price.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Santa Fe |
| Generation | Santa Fe II (CM) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 i V6 24V (189 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp, 103.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm, 134.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 189 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 4000 rpm (180.7 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Mu / G6EA |
| Engine displacement | 2656 cm3 (162.08 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.7 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1823 kg (4019.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2520 kg (5555.65 lbs.) |
| Max load | 697 kg (1536.62 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 774 l (27.33 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2274 l (80.31 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4650 mm (183.07 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| 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 | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Santa Fe variant is the Hyundai Mu engine, specifically the G6EA code. This 2.7-liter, naturally aspirated V6 engine utilizes a 60-degree V-angle configuration. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system, providing adequate atomization for efficient combustion. The engine’s design prioritized smooth operation and reliability over outright performance. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a direct connection between the engine and the wheels. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, though it wasn’t particularly sporty in its feel.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.7L V6 with the 5-speed manual transmission offered a reasonably comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration to 60 mph took around 9.5 seconds, which was adequate for everyday driving but not particularly quick compared to some competitors. The engine delivered its peak torque at 4000 rpm, meaning that drivers needed to rev the engine slightly to access its full power. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather conditions, making it a practical choice for regions with snow or rain. The steering was light and easy to use, but lacked significant feedback. Overall, the driving experience was geared towards comfort and practicality rather than sporty handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.7L V6 4WD Santa Fe typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Safety features included dual front airbags and anti-lock brakes. Optional extras could include a sunroof, upgraded audio system, leather upholstery, and alloy wheels. The specific trim level determined the availability of these options. The interior design was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over luxury. The rear seats offered ample space for passengers, and the cargo area was generous, especially with the rear seats folded down.
Chassis & Braking
The Santa Fe II (CM) utilized an independent suspension setup at all four corners. The front suspension employed a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension featured a multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality and decent handling characteristics. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The hydraulic power steering system offered light and easy steering effort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Santa Fe II (CM) 2.7L V6 4WD was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable SUV. It offered a good value proposition compared to some of its more established competitors, such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the refinement and power of some of its rivals. Fuel economy was also considered average for its class. Compared to the base 2.4L four-cylinder models, the 2.7L V6 offered significantly more power and a smoother driving experience, but at the cost of slightly lower fuel economy.
Legacy
The Hyundai Santa Fe II (CM) 2.7L V6 4WD has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The Mu engine is known for its durability, and the all-wheel-drive system has held up well over time. However, like any vehicle, regular maintenance is essential to ensure long-term reliability. Common issues include minor oil leaks and occasional sensor failures. Today, these Santa Fes represent an affordable and practical option for buyers seeking a used SUV with all-wheel drive and a spacious interior.
