Hyundai reveals 2013 Santa Fe for Europe ahead of Paris debut
The European-market Hyundai Santa Fe arrives with diesel and petrol engines, all-wheel drive features and emissions aimed at meeting Euro 6 standards.
Hyundai has unveiled the European version of its 2013 Santa Fe SUV ahead of a public debut at the Paris Motor Show. The new model brings a choice of diesel and petrol engines, updated all-wheel drive technology and emissions figures designed to meet stricter Euro 6 standards.
For European buyers, Hyundai is offering a 2.0-litre R VGT diesel producing 150 horsepower and 382Nm of torque. This engine emits 155g/km of CO2. The higher-spec 2.2-litre R VGT diesel delivers 200 horsepower and 431Nm, with an improved emissions figure of 145g/km. Both diesels are Euro 6 compliant. A 2.4-litre Theta II petrol engine with direct injection is also available, rated at 193 horsepower.
A six-speed manual gearbox is standard across the range. Buyers opting for the 2.2-litre diesel or 2.4-litre petrol can also specify a six-speed automatic. The Santa Fe’s all-wheel drive system includes a LOCK mode, which splits torque 50:50 between front and rear axles at speeds up to 40km/h. This is intended to improve traction in off-road conditions, a feature Hyundai says brings the Santa Fe into closer competition with Japanese and European rivals.
All-wheel drive and safety features
Beyond the LOCK mode, the Santa Fe is equipped with a suite of electronic aids. These include hill-holder, hill climb assist and hill descent assist, as well as Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and ABS. The combination is intended to give the SUV more capability on loose surfaces and greater reassurance in poor conditions.
Engines and transmissions for Europe
| Engine | Power | Torque | CO2 emissions | Transmission options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0-litre R VGT diesel | 150hp | 382Nm | 155g/km | 6-speed manual |
| 2.2-litre R VGT diesel | 200hp | 431Nm | 145g/km | 6-speed manual/auto |
| 2.4-litre Theta II petrol | 193hp | - | - | 6-speed manual/auto |
Hyundai has positioned the new Santa Fe to compete more directly with established crossovers and SUVs in Europe, targeting buyers who want both family practicality and some off-road ability. The updated diesel engines and new safety features are aimed at improving the Santa Fe’s appeal in a segment dominated by Japanese and European brands.
The 2013 Santa Fe will make its public debut at the Paris Motor Show, following earlier reveals of the global model. European sales are expected to begin shortly after the show. For more on the international version and images from its first reveal, see2013 Hyundai Santa Fe images leak ahead of New York debut.
