Transmission Choices Across the Canadian Santa Fe Lineup

With its bold redesign and impressive array of features, the Hyundai Santa Fe has made a significant impact in the Canadian midsize SUV market. The transmission plays a crucial role in determining the vehicle's performance and driving experience. Let’s explore the transmission options available across the various trim levels of the Santa Fe in the Canadian market, from the XRT to the Ultimate Calligraphy.

Overview of the Santa Fe Lineup in Canada

Before diving into the specifics of the transmission choices, let’s briefly review the trim levels available for the Hyundai Santa Fe in Canada:

1. Preferred AWD

2. XRT AWD

3. Luxury AWD

4. Ultimate Calligraphy AWD

It’s worth noting that the Canadian Santa Fe lineup is more streamlined than that of some other markets. It focuses on well-equipped AWD variants.

Standard Powertrain: 8-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)

Across all trim levels of the Santa Fe in Canada, Hyundai has standardized the powertrain with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This combination offers a robust 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft (422 Nm) of torque, providing ample power for Canadian driving conditions.

Key Features of the 8-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission

• Quick Shifting: The DCT provides faster, more precise gear changes than traditional automatic transmissions, enhancing the overall driving experience.

• Improved Fuel Efficiency: With eight gears, the transmission can optimize engine speed for better fuel economy in various driving conditions. The combined fuel economy is 10.6 - 10.8 L/100 km.

• Enhanced Performance: The multiple gear ratios improve acceleration and responsiveness across different speed ranges, particularly useful in diverse Canadian driving scenarios.

• SHIFTRONIC® Manual Shift Mode: This feature allows drivers to manually select gears for a more engaging driving experience when desired, perfect for tackling challenging Canadian terrain or winding roads.

• Drive Mode Select: While not part of the transmission, this system works with the transmission to alter shift points and responsiveness based on the selected mode (Eco, Comfort, Sport, Smart).

Transmission Performance Across Trim Levels

While the 8-speed DCT is consistent across all trim levels, there are some variations in how it’s tuned and integrated with other systems:

Preferred AWD

The Preferred AWD trim, positioned as a well-equipped and versatile option in the Santa Fe lineup, comes with some notable transmission-related features:

• Standard HTRAC All-Wheel Drive: The HTRAC AWD system works with the transmission to improve traction and performance across various Canadian driving conditions, from snowy winters to rainy spring roads.

• Transmission: The Preferred AWD trim has an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This advanced transmission offers smooth shifts and improved fuel efficiency compared to traditional automatic transmissions.

• Towing Capacity: When properly equipped, the Preferred AWD trim can tow up to 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs). The transmission optimizes power delivery for towing situations, ensuring a balance between performance and efficiency.

XRT AWD

The XRT trim, positioned as the more rugged and off-road-oriented variant, comes with some transmission-related enhancements:

1. Standard HTRAC All-Wheel Drive: The HTRAC AWD system works with the transmission to improve traction and performance in challenging Canadian conditions, from snowy winters to muddy spring roads.

2. Towing Capacity: The XRT trim boasts a towing capacity of up to 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs) when properly equipped. The transmission is tuned to optimize power delivery for towing situations.

Luxury AWD

The Luxury trim builds upon the XRT’s capabilities with additional refinements:

1. Paddle Shifters: This trim includes steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, allowing more direct control over gear selection.

2. Enhanced Shift Logic: The Luxury trim features more sophisticated shift logic programming, which can provide smoother and more responsive gear changes, especially in performance-oriented driving situations.

Ultimate Calligraphy AWD

The top-tier Ultimate Calligraphy trims retain all the features of the Luxury trim and add:

1. Further Refined Shift Mapping: These trims offer the most refined version of the transmission’s shift logic, prioritizing smoothness and comfort while maintaining responsive performance.

2. Integration with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems: The transmission in these trims integrates seamlessly with features like Highway Driving Assist II and adjusts its behaviour to complement these advanced systems.

Performance Metrics

To better understand the impact of the transmission across the lineup, let’s compare some key performance metrics:

• Acceleration (0-100 km/h)

  • All trims: Approximately 7.2 seconds

• Fuel Economy (Combined)

  • All trims: 10.6 - 10.8 L/100 km

• Towing Capacity

  • All trims: Up to 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs)

Drive Experience Across Trims

The 8-speed DCT plays a significant role in shaping the driving experience of each Santa Fe trim. Here’s how it contributes to the character of each variant:

Preferred and XRT AWD

When paired with the standard HTRAC AWD system, it provides confident power delivery in various terrains, from city streets to light off-road trails. The transmission’s programming considers the potential for more rugged use, offering more aggressive shift points when needed.

Luxury AWD

The Luxury trim’s transmission balances performance and comfort. Paddle shifters are added for a more engaging drive when desired. The transmission’s shift logic is optimized to provide seamless gear changes that are barely perceptible, contributing to its premium feel.

Ultimate Calligraphy AWD

In these top-tier trims, the DCT is calibrated for the utmost refinement. The transmission’s behaviour provides an exceptionally smooth and quiet driving experience, befitting the luxurious nature of the Calligraphy models. However, it still can deliver quick, responsive shifts when called upon, ensuring that performance is always ready.

Advanced Features and Technologies

Several advanced features complement the transmission systems across the Santa Fe lineup:

1. HTRAC All-Wheel Drive: This system, standard on all Canadian trims, works with the transmission to optimize power distribution between the front and rear wheels based on driving conditions.

2. Drive Mode Select: This system allows drivers to tailor the transmission’s behaviour with other vehicle systems. Modes typically include:

   • Eco: Optimizes shift points for maximum fuel efficiency

   • Comfort: Balances performance and efficiency for everyday driving

   • Sport: Holds gears longer and provides more aggressive downshifts for a sportier feel

   • Smart: Adapts to your driving style, automatically selecting the most appropriate mode

3. Terrain Mode Selector: Available on all AWD models, this feature adjusts the transmission’s behaviour (along with other systems) for optimal performance in snow, mud, and sand – perfect for Canada’s diverse landscapes.

Maintenance and Longevity

The 8-speed DCT in the Santa Fe is designed for durability and longevity, which is crucial for Canadian drivers who often face challenging driving conditions. However, proper maintenance is essential for ensuring optimal performance throughout the vehicle’s life:

• Transmission fluid should be inspected regularly and replaced according to the maintenance schedule outlined in the owner’s manual. Under severe driving conditions, it should be replaced at around 96,000 km or earlier.

Regular maintenance ensures smooth operation and can prevent costly repairs down the line, especially in a country where extreme weather conditions can put additional stress on vehicle components.

Choose the Right Santa Fe for You

The transmission choices across the Hyundai Santa Fe lineup in Canada are tailored to complement each trim’s character and intended use:

• The XRT AWD offers a balance of ruggedness and refinement, perfect for those who enjoy outdoor adventures or need extra capability in challenging weather conditions.

• The Luxury AWD provides a more premium experience with added control through paddle shifters. It is ideal for drivers who want a touch of sportiness in their daily commute.

• The Ultimate Calligraphy trims offer the pinnacle of refinement. The smooth transmission provides a luxurious driving experience, perfect for long highway cruises or comfortable navigating busy city streets.

Ultimately, the Hyundai Santa Fe offers a transmission option suited for a wide range of Canadian drivers. Whether you prioritize off-road capability, on-road performance, or luxurious comfort, there’s a Santa Fe variant with a transmission setup designed to meet your needs. As always, a test drive is the best way to experience these differences firsthand and determine which Santa Fe trim level fits your driving style and preferences in the diverse Canadian landscape.