The Hyundai Santa Fe III (DM) 2.2 CRDi 4WD, produced from 2013 to 2015, represents a significant step forward for Hyundai in the mid-size crossover SUV segment. Positioned as a premium offering within the DM generation Santa Fe lineup, this variant combined a powerful diesel engine with all-wheel drive capability and a six-speed manual transmission. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile, comfortable, and fuel-efficient vehicle capable of handling diverse driving conditions. The DM series Santa Fe was a crucial model for Hyundai, expanding its presence in the North American and European markets, offering a compelling alternative to established competitors like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Kia Sorento.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Santa Fe |
| Generation | Santa Fe III (DM) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 CRDi (197 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp, 104.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 223.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 197 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Torque | 422 Nm @ 1800-2500 rpm (311.25 lb.-ft. @ 1800-2500 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.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.1 l (9.62 US qt | 8.01 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1888 kg (4162.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2600 kg (5732.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 712 kg (1569.69 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 534 l (18.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4690 mm (184.65 in.) |
| Width | 1880 mm (74.02 in.) |
| Height | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1628 mm (64.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1639 mm (64.53 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 180 mm (7.09 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.90 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 16.5° |
| Departure angle | 21.2° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 16.6° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Santa Fe 2.2 CRDi 4WD is the Hyundai R II series diesel engine, specifically the D4HB code. This 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine features a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler, enhancing both power and efficiency. The DOHC valvetrain with four valves per cylinder contributes to improved breathing and overall performance. The engine produces 197 horsepower at 3800 rpm and a substantial 422 Nm (311 lb-ft) of torque between 1800 and 2500 rpm. This broad torque curve is particularly beneficial for towing and navigating varied terrain. The six-speed manual transmission provides precise gear changes and allows the driver to fully utilize the engine’s power.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2 CRDi 4WD Santa Fe offers a balanced driving experience. While not a sports SUV, the engine’s torque output provides ample acceleration for everyday driving and highway merging. The six-speed manual transmission allows for good control, though the shift action can feel slightly notchy compared to some competitors. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it a capable vehicle for inclement weather or light off-road use. Compared to the base 2.0-liter gasoline engine, the 2.2 CRDi offers significantly more power and torque, resulting in a more confident and relaxed driving experience, especially when fully loaded or towing. It also delivers superior fuel economy compared to the gasoline options.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 CRDi 4WD typically came well-equipped, often representing a mid-to-high trim level within the Santa Fe range. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a premium audio system. Safety features like ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were standard across the range. Optional extras often included navigation, a rearview camera, and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The Santa Fe DM utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The all-wheel-drive system employs a dynamic torque distribution system, automatically adjusting the power split between the front and rear axles based on driving conditions. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRDi 4WD was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, strong diesel engine, and competitive pricing. Compared to other diesel-powered SUVs in its class, the Santa Fe offered a compelling combination of value and features. Fuel economy was a strong point, consistently achieving around 38 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system.
Legacy
The Hyundai Santa Fe DM 2.2 CRDi 4WD has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable vehicle. The R II diesel engine, while requiring regular maintenance (including DPF regeneration), is known for its longevity. On the used car market, these models continue to be sought after for their practicality, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability. They represent a significant milestone in Hyundai’s evolution as a mainstream automotive manufacturer, demonstrating the brand’s ability to compete with established players in the highly competitive SUV segment.
