The Hyundai Santa Fe II (CM) 2.2 CRDi 4WD Automatic, produced between 2006 and 2009, represented a significant step forward for Hyundai in the mid-size SUV segment. Positioned as a more premium offering within the CM Santa Fe range, this variant combined a 2.2-liter diesel engine with a four-wheel-drive system and a five-speed automatic transmission. It was primarily marketed towards families and individuals seeking a comfortable, capable, and relatively fuel-efficient SUV. The CM generation Santa Fe, built on the Hyundai-Kia Y6 platform, aimed to provide a more refined experience than its predecessor, competing with established players like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in European and global markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Santa Fe |
| Generation | Santa Fe II (CM) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 CRDi (155 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg, 27.2 UK mpg, 9.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 212 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 178 km/h (110.6 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp, 83.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 185.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 155 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 343 Nm @ 1800-2500 rpm (252.98 lb.-ft. @ 1800-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4EB |
| Engine displacement | 2188 cm3 (133.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.4 l (8.88 US qt | 7.39 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1853-1946 kg (4085.17 – 4290.2 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2570 kg (5665.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 624-717 kg (1375.68 – 1580.71 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 528 l (18.65 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 3000 kg (6613.87 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4675 mm (184.06 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Front overhang | 940 mm (37.01 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1035 mm (40.75 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 203 mm (7.99 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.38 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels permanently, and the rear wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17; 235/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Hyundai Santa Fe II (CM) 2.2 CRDi 4WD Automatic, manufactured from 2006 to 2009, was a key model in Hyundai’s expansion into the competitive SUV market. This variant, powered by the D4EB engine, offered a blend of practicality, comfort, and all-weather capability. It sat in the mid-range of the CM Santa Fe lineup, offering more performance and features than the base 2.0-liter petrol models, but positioned below the higher-specification trims. The introduction of the CM generation marked a significant improvement in build quality and refinement for Hyundai, allowing it to challenge established European and Japanese rivals.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Santa Fe variant lies the Hyundai D4EB 2.2-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The D4EB features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating four valves per cylinder. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and torque. The engine produces 155 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 343 Nm (252.98 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1800 and 2500 rpm. This torque band provides good low-end grunt, making it suitable for towing and navigating varied terrain. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The automatic transmission is a conventional five-speed unit, designed for smooth shifting and ease of use. While not the most technologically advanced automatic available at the time, it was reliable and well-suited to the engine’s characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2 CRDi Automatic Santa Fe offered a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. The automatic transmission, while not particularly sporty, provided smooth gear changes and eliminated the need for constant clutch and gear lever operation. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 12.9 seconds, which was adequate for everyday driving but not particularly brisk. The engine’s strong torque output made overtaking at highway speeds relatively effortless. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offered slightly reduced performance due to transmission losses. However, the convenience and ease of use often outweighed this performance difference for many buyers. The four-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it a capable vehicle for inclement weather or light off-road use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 CRDi 4WD Automatic Santa Fe typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with radio, alloy wheels, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, automatic climate control, and a more advanced audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth on the base models, with leather available as an option. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with easy-to-read gauges and controls. Optional extras included a navigation system, parking sensors, and heated seats.
Chassis & Braking
The Santa Fe CM utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) provided enhanced braking control in emergency situations. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, making it well-suited for long journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Santa Fe II (CM) 2.2 CRDi 4WD Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong diesel engine. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission could feel slightly sluggish at times. Compared to the 2.0-liter petrol versions, the 2.2 CRDi offered significantly more torque and better fuel economy. The 2.2 CRDi also provided a more refined driving experience than the lower-powered engines. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg), making it a relatively economical SUV for its size. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system.
Legacy
The Hyundai Santa Fe II (CM) 2.2 CRDi 4WD Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable vehicle. The D4EB engine, while not without its quirks, is generally considered to be a robust unit. The automatic transmission, if properly maintained, can provide years of trouble-free service. On the used car market, these Santa Fes represent good value for money, offering a lot of space and practicality for a reasonable price. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and ensure that the vehicle has been regularly serviced. The CM Santa Fe played a crucial role in establishing Hyundai as a serious contender in the SUV segment, paving the way for the more sophisticated and technologically advanced models that followed.
