The Hyundai Santa Fe II (CM) 2.7L V6 4WD Automatic, produced from 2006 to 2009, represented a significant step forward for Hyundai in the increasingly competitive mid-size SUV segment. Part of the second generation Santa Fe (CM), this variant offered a blend of family practicality, all-weather capability with its four-wheel-drive system, and a relatively powerful V6 engine paired with a convenient automatic transmission. It positioned itself as a mid-range offering within the CM lineup, slotting above the base 2.4L four-cylinder models and below the later-introduced 3.3L V6 options. The CM generation Santa Fe was a crucial model for Hyundai, helping to establish the brand as a serious contender in the North American market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Santa Fe |
| Generation | Santa Fe II (CM) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 i V6 24V (189 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.4 l/100 km (16.3 US mpg, 19.6 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 176 km/h (109.36 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp, 103.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm, 134.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 189 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 4000 rpm (180.7 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Mu / G6EA |
| Engine displacement | 2656 cm3 (162.08 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.7 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1823 kg (4019.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2520 kg (5555.65 lbs.) |
| Max load | 697 kg (1536.62 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 969 l (34.22 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1582 l (55.87 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4650 mm (183.07 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 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 | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Santa Fe variant is the Hyundai Mu engine, specifically the G6EA code. This 2.7-liter, naturally aspirated V6 engine utilizes a 60-degree V-angle configuration. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output for its displacement. The engine employs multi-point fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. This system, while not as advanced as direct injection found in later engines, provided reliable and consistent fuel delivery. The 4-speed automatic transmission, while adequate for the time, is a key differentiator from the available 5-speed manual transmission. The automatic prioritizes ease of use and comfort, making it popular with families and drivers less concerned with maximizing fuel efficiency or performance. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for everyday driving, prioritizing smooth shifts and acceptable acceleration rather than sporty responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.7L V6 with the 4-speed automatic delivers a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11 seconds, which was competitive for the segment at the time but feels noticeably slower by modern standards. The automatic transmission, while smooth, can feel somewhat dated, with noticeable gear changes and a tendency to hunt for the right gear on inclines. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in inclement weather, making it a capable vehicle for those living in regions with snow or rain. The power delivery is linear, with peak torque arriving at 4000 rpm. This means that while it doesn’t offer a strong initial surge, it maintains a reasonable level of power throughout the rev range. Compared to the manual transmission version, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness, but gains in convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.7L V6 4WD Automatic Santa Fe typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with AM/FM radio, and basic cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, often denoted by GLS or Limited designations, added features such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a navigation system (a relatively rare option at the time), heated front seats, and side airbags. The interior design was functional and straightforward, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The seven-passenger seating configuration, while offering versatility, resulted in limited third-row legroom, making it best suited for children.
Chassis & Braking
The Santa Fe II (CM) utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road effectively. A stabilizer bar is included on both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for a vehicle of its size and weight. The hydraulic power steering offers a reasonable level of assistance, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Santa Fe II (CM) 2.7L V6 4WD Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a solid and value-packed SUV. It offered a compelling combination of features, space, and all-wheel-drive capability at a competitive price point. Fuel economy, however, was a common criticism, with the 2.7L V6 returning around 22 mpg in combined driving. Compared to the base 2.4L four-cylinder models, the V6 offered significantly more power and a smoother driving experience, but at the cost of increased fuel consumption. The later-introduced 3.3L V6 provided even more power, but also came with a higher price tag. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the automatic transmission and electrical components.
Legacy
The Hyundai Santa Fe II (CM) 2.7L V6 4WD Automatic has proven to be a relatively durable and reliable vehicle in the used car market. The Mu engine, while not known for exceptional performance, is generally considered to be robust and long-lasting with proper maintenance. The 4-speed automatic transmission, while dated, is also reasonably reliable. Today, these Santa Fes can be found at affordable prices, making them a practical and economical choice for those seeking a spacious and capable SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s age and potential for wear and tear, and should thoroughly inspect the transmission and suspension before making a purchase.
