2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Transmission Systems Across Trims

The completely redesigned Hyundai Santa Fe has made a bold entrance into the midsize SUV market with its distinctive boxy design, innovative features, and carefully engineered powertrains. A crucial component of these powertrains is the transmission system, which varies across different trim levels to optimize performance, efficiency, and driving dynamics.

Overview of the Fifth-Generation Santa Fe

The latest model year marks the introduction of the fifth-generation Santa Fe, representing the most significant redesign in the vehicle’s history. This new generation features a more rugged appearance with a squared-off profile, significantly increased interior space, and updated powertrain options. The transmission systems play a vital role in delivering power from these engines to the wheels, balancing performance and fuel efficiency.

Standard 8-Speed Automatic Transmission

Technical Specifications and Design

The foundation of the Santa Fe transmission lineup is the 8-speed automatic transmission paired with the standard 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This transmission features:

Eight forward gears with optimized ratios for both acceleration and cruising efficiency
Electronic shift-by-wire technology eliminates mechanical linkages
Multi-plate torque converter with advanced lockup control
Integrated hydraulic control unit with solenoid valves for precise gear engagement
Adaptive shift logic that adjusts to driving conditions and driver behaviour
Approximate weight of 85 kg, designed with lightweight aluminum housing
Maximum torque handling capacity of 422 Nm (311 lb-ft)

This transmission is engineered to handle the robust output of the turbocharged engine while providing smooth shifts and responsive performance. The wide ratio spread between first and eighth gears allows for strong off-the-line acceleration and relaxed highway cruising.

Performance Characteristics

The 8-speed automatic delivers several performance advantages:

0-100 km/h acceleration in approximately 7.8 seconds (AWD configuration)
Shift times of approximately 0.5 seconds between gears
Four distinct driving modes (Comfort, Eco, Sport, Smart) that alter shift patterns
Downshift rev-matching for smoother deceleration
Direct coupling capability above third gear for improved efficiency
Grade Logic Control that automatically holds lower gears on steep inclines
Quick-responding paddle shifters for manual gear selection

This transmission is standard on the Essential, Preferred, and Urban trim levels, providing a balanced combination of performance and efficiency across these variants.

6-Speed Automatic for Hybrid Powertrains

Hybrid-Specific Transmission Design

For the Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid variants of the Santa Fe, Hyundai employs a specialized 6-speed automatic transmission engineered specifically for electrified powertrains:

Six forward gears optimized for hybrid operation
Integrated electric motor placement within the transmission housing
Oil pump designed to operate efficiently with frequent engine start-stop cycles
Reinforced internal components to handle combined torque from engine and electric motor
Specialized friction materials for clutch packs to enhance durability
Approximate weight of 90 kg, slightly heavier than the 8-speed due to hybrid components
Maximum combined torque handling of 464 Nm (342 lb-ft)

This transmission represents a different approach from many hybrid vehicles that use continuously variable transmissions (CVTs). The Hyundai decision to implement a conventional-style automatic with fixed gear ratios delivers a more familiar driving experience while still maximizing the efficiency benefits of the hybrid system.

Hybrid Transmission Performance

The 6-speed hybrid transmission offers unique performance attributes:

Seamless transition between electric, hybrid, and engine-only operation
Regenerative braking integration with smooth deceleration feel
Electric-only operation capability at speeds up to 120 km/h under light load
Specialized shift mapping to maximize electric motor assistance
Active Shift Control technology using the electric motor to match transmission speed during shifts
Shift response time approximately 30% quicker than conventional automatics
Reduced power loss compared to planetary-type hybrid systems

This transmission is standard on the Luxury Hybrid and Ultimate Hybrid trims, as well as the Luxury PHEV and Ultimate PHEV models, providing an optimal balance of efficiency and performance for these electrified variants.

HTRAC All-Wheel Drive Integration

Transmission-to-HTRAC Connection

All Santa Fe trims feature the Hyundai HTRAC all-wheel-drive system, which works in close coordination with the transmission:

Direct mechanical connection between transmission output and HTRAC transfer case
Electronically controlled multi-plate clutch for variable torque distribution
Integrated sensors monitoring wheel slip, yaw rate, and steering angle
Seven distinct AWD modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport, Smart, Snow, Mud, Sand)
Up to 50% of torque can be directed to rear wheels in normal driving
Lock mode capability for maintaining fixed 50:50 torque distribution at speeds under 40 km/h
Transmission and HTRAC control modules share data at 500 times per second

The transmission control unit and HTRAC control unit communicate constantly to optimize power delivery based on driving conditions, maximizing both traction and efficiency.

Mode-Specific Transmission Calibrations

The Santa Fe features mode-specific transmission calibrations that work in conjunction with the HTRAC system:

Eco Mode:

Earlier upshifts to maintain lower engine RPM
Reduced torque converter lockup for smoother operation
Primarily front-wheel drive with rear engagement only when slip is detected

Sport Mode:

Delayed upshifts and earlier downshifts for more responsive acceleration
Increased torque converter lockup for direct power delivery
Increased rear-wheel torque bias for improved cornering dynamics

Snow/Mud/Sand Modes:

Specialized start-gear selection (2nd gear for snow, 1st for mud/sand)
Modified shift points to maintain optimal power band for traction
Altered torque distribution patterns between front and rear axles
Reduced electronic stability control intervention

This integration between transmission and HTRAC systems creates a cohesive driving experience across various conditions and terrains.

Transmission Efficiency Technologies

Fuel Economy Enhancements

Both transmission options in the Santa Fe incorporate technologies designed to maximize fuel efficiency:

8-Speed Automatic:

Active Warm-Up system that reduces friction during cold starts
Variable pressure control solenoid for optimized hydraulic pressure
Multi-stage damper system in torque converter to allow earlier lockup
Reduced-drag bearing and seal design
Approximately 3% improved efficiency compared to previous generation

6-Speed Hybrid Automatic:

Electric oil pump that maintains pressure during engine-off operation
Low-viscosity transmission fluid reducing internal resistance
Optimized clutch timing to reduce slippage
Approximately 8% improved efficiency in hybrid operation compared to conventional powertrains

These technologies contribute to the competitive fuel economy ratings across all trim levels.

Maintenance Considerations

The transmission systems in the Santa Fe are designed for reduced maintenance:

Extended service intervals with initial fluid change recommended at 96,000 km
Self-adjusting clutch mechanisms eliminating the need for periodic adjustments
Adaptive shift programming that reduces unnecessary gear hunting
Enhanced filtration system protecting against wear
Transmission fluid temperature management to extend fluid life

These features contribute to lower long-term ownership costs and improved reliability across the Santa Fe lineup.

Five Santa Fe Transmission Facts

The 8-speed automatic transmission weighs 8 kg less than the previous generation despite having more advanced features, thanks to extensive use of high-strength aluminum alloys in its case design.
The hybrid transmission’s Active Shift Control technology uses the electric motor to match the speed of the transmission, reducing shift time by up to 30% while improving efficiency and ride comfort.
When in Snow mode, the transmission automatically starts in second gear and adjusts the torque converter lockup to prevent wheelspin, even before the HTRAC system redistributes power between axles.
Hyundai chose to use a conventional 6-speed automatic for their hybrid models rather than a CVT to maintain a more engaging driving experience with distinct shift points, bucking the industry trend.
The transmission’s electronic control unit in the Santa Fe processes over 500 inputs per second from 16 different sensors to determine optimal shift timing and torque management.

Questions and Answers About the Hyundai Santa Fe

What is the main difference between the transmissions in standard and hybrid Santa Fe models?

The standard models use an 8-speed automatic transmission optimized for the turbocharged engine, while hybrid models use a specially designed 6-speed automatic transmission that integrates with the electric motor system and features Active Shift Control technology for smoother, more efficient shifts.

Does the 2025 Santa Fe offer a manual transmission option?

No, it does not offer a manual transmission option in any trim level. All models come equipped with either the 8-speed automatic (for non-hybrid versions) or the 6-speed automatic (for hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions).

How does the transmission in the Santa Fe PHEV differ from the regular hybrid?

The transmissions in both the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models share the same 6-speed design, but the PHEV version features additional cooling capacity and modified control logic to handle the higher power output and extended electric-only operation capabilities of the plug-in system.

Can drivers manually select gears in the 2025 Santa Fe?

Yes, all models offer manual gear selection through paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel, allowing drivers to override the automatic shift programming temporarily for situations like descending steep hills or overtaking.

How does the Santa Fe transmission system respond to different terrain modes?

When drivers select terrain-specific modes (Snow, Mud, or Sand), the transmission adjusts its shift points, gear selection, and torque converter lockup behaviour to optimize power delivery for those conditions. For example, it maintains higher RPMs in Mud mode for maximum torque, while in Snow mode it starts in second gear and shifts earlier to prevent wheelspin.

*Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.*