The Hyundai Santa Fe IV (TM) facelift, specifically the 1.6 T-GDI (230 Hp) Hybrid Automatic 7-Seat variant, represents a significant offering in the mid-size SUV segment. Introduced in November 2020 and continuing through August 2023, this model combined a turbocharged gasoline engine with a full hybrid electric system, aiming to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and practicality. Positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level within the Santa Fe range, it catered to buyers seeking a more refined and technologically advanced SUV experience with the added benefit of seven-passenger seating. This version was primarily marketed in Europe and other global markets, offering a compelling alternative to established competitors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Santa Fe |
| Generation | Santa Fe IV (TM, facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 T-GDI (230 Hp) Hybrid Automatic 7 Seat |
| Start of production | November, 2020 |
| End of production | August, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 157 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 126 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 187 km/h (116.2 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 129.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 196.6 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 1.49 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-polymer (LiPo) |
| Electric motor power | 60 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 264 Nm (194.72 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 230 Hp |
| System torque | 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 180 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Engine Torque | 265 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (195.45 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Smartstream / G4FP |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 4.69 l (4.96 US qt | 4.13 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1780-1906 kg (3924.23 – 4202.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2580 kg (5687.93 lbs.) |
| Max load | 674-800 kg (1485.92 – 1763.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 571-782 l (20.16 – 27.62 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1649 l (58.23 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67 l (17.7 US gal | 14.74 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4785 mm (188.39 in.) |
| Width | 1900 mm (74.8 in.) |
| Height | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2765 mm (108.86 in.) |
| Front track | 1646 mm (64.8 in.) |
| Rear track | 1656 mm (65.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 176 mm (6.93 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive. FHEV. |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 235/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Hyundai Santa Fe IV, launched in 2018 and receiving a significant facelift in 2020, quickly became a cornerstone of Hyundai’s global SUV lineup. The 1.6 T-GDI Hybrid Automatic 7-Seat variant, introduced with the facelift, aimed to provide a compelling blend of efficiency and practicality. This model utilized Hyundai’s Smartstream engine family and a sophisticated hybrid system to deliver improved fuel economy and reduced emissions compared to traditional gasoline-powered Santa Fe models. It was designed to appeal to families needing seven seats but also prioritizing lower running costs and a more environmentally conscious driving experience. The TM generation Santa Fe represented a move upmarket for Hyundai, with a focus on interior quality and advanced safety features.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Santa Fe variant lies the Smartstream G4FP 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to produce 180 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 265 Nm (195.45 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4500 rpm. The engine is paired with a 60 hp electric motor and a 1.49 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack, resulting in a combined system output of 230 horsepower and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque. The powertrain employs a six-speed automatic transmission, specifically tuned to work seamlessly with the hybrid system. The hybrid system operates in various modes, including all-electric driving at lower speeds, assisting the gasoline engine during acceleration, and regenerative braking to recharge the battery. The engine’s Smartstream architecture incorporates features like cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and optimized combustion chamber design for improved efficiency and reduced emissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 T-GDI Hybrid Automatic Santa Fe offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the combined output of the engine and electric motor provides adequate acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 8.5 seconds. The six-speed automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly, although it can occasionally feel hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. The hybrid system effectively masks the engine’s operation, providing near-silent operation in electric mode at lower speeds. Compared to the more powerful 2.5-liter gasoline engine option, this hybrid variant prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments, while the suspension provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The added weight of the hybrid components is noticeable, but doesn’t significantly detract from the overall driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 T-GDI Hybrid Automatic 7-Seat Santa Fe typically came well-equipped, even in base trim levels. Standard features often included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane-keeping assist, forward collision avoidance assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and heated and ventilated front seats. Interior upholstery was typically a combination of cloth and leatherette, with higher trims offering full leather options. Dashboard configuration featured a modern design with a digital instrument cluster and a user-friendly infotainment interface.
Chassis & Braking
The Santa Fe’s chassis is based on a robust front-wheel-drive platform, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The suspension consists of MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, tuned for comfort and stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system is assisted by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Brake Assist. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension setup is generally well-balanced, providing a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 T-GDI Hybrid Automatic Santa Fe was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained under heavy acceleration, and the hybrid system didn’t offer the same level of performance as some competitors. Compared to the 2.4-liter gasoline engine variant, the hybrid offered significantly better fuel economy but slightly less power. Against rivals like the Kia Sorento Hybrid and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, the Santa Fe Hybrid offered a competitive package with a strong value proposition. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported with the powertrain.
Legacy
The Hyundai Santa Fe IV 1.6 T-GDI Hybrid Automatic 7-Seat has established itself as a reliable and practical choice in the used car market. The Smartstream engine and hybrid system have proven to be durable, with many examples exceeding 100,000 miles without major mechanical issues. The availability of seven seats and the fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain continue to make it an attractive option for families seeking a versatile and economical SUV. As Hyundai continues to expand its hybrid and electric vehicle offerings, this Santa Fe variant represents an important step in the brand’s transition towards a more sustainable future.
