TagAz Santa Fe Classic 2.0 CRDi (112 Hp)

The TagAz Santa Fe Classic 2.0 CRDi (112 Hp) represents a fascinating chapter in the global automotive landscape, embodying a licensed production strategy that extended the life of a popular design in a specific regional market. Produced by the Taganrog Automobile Plant (TagAz) in Russia from 2006 to 2009, this vehicle was essentially the first-generation Hyundai Santa Fe, manufactured under license for the domestic Russian market. While the original Hyundai model had already been succeeded by a new generation in many international markets, TagAz continued its production, offering a proven and robust off-road vehicle (SUV) to consumers seeking a balance of utility, space, and affordability. This particular variant, equipped with a 2.0-liter Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi) diesel engine, was positioned as a practical and economical choice within its segment, appealing to buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and torque for varied driving conditions.

Powertrain and Performance of the TagAz Santa Fe Classic

At the heart of the

The TagAz Santa Fe Classic 2.0 CRDi (112 Hp) is its diligent 2.0-liter inline-four diesel engine, a unit engineered for efficiency and dependable performance. This CRDi (Common Rail Direct Injection) powerplant, augmented by a turbocharger and intercooler, delivered a respectable 112 horsepower at 4000 rpm. Its true strength, however, lay in its torque output: a robust 191.77 lb.-ft. (260 Nm) arriving at a low 2000 rpm. This characteristic low-end torque was particularly beneficial for an off-road vehicle, providing ample pulling power for acceleration from a standstill, navigating challenging terrain, or carrying heavy loads.

The engine’s configuration, with four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 17.7:1, was standard for modern diesel engines of its era, promoting efficient combustion. Power was routed to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, a setup that emphasizes driver engagement and allows for precise control over the engine’s output. While some iterations of the Santa Fe offered all-wheel drive, this specific TagAz variant focused on a front-wheel-drive architecture, which typically offers better fuel economy and reduced complexity, aligning with its role as an accessible family SUV.

Performance figures for the TagAz Santa Fe Classic 2.0 CRDi were commensurate with its utility-focused design. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a measured 13.8 seconds, with a top speed reaching 104.39 mph (168 km/h). These numbers indicate a vehicle designed for steady, confident progress rather than outright speed, perfectly suited for its intended use on various road conditions, from city streets to unpaved rural routes. The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio stood at 15.2 kg/Hp (65.7 Hp/tonne), while its weight-to-torque ratio was 6.6 kg/Nm (152.5 Nm/tonne), underscoring the engine’s effective torque delivery relative to its curb weight.

Fuel economy was a significant advantage for the diesel-powered TagAz Santa Fe Classic. It achieved a combined fuel consumption of 31.4 US mpg (7.5 liters per 100 km). In urban driving cycles, it recorded 25.3 US mpg (9.3 l/100 km), and on the highway or extra-urban routes, it impressed with 36.8 US mpg (6.4 l/100 km). These figures highlight the economic benefits of the CRDi diesel engine, providing a cost-effective solution for everyday driving. Furthermore, the vehicle adhered to the Euro 3 emission standard, reflecting the environmental regulations pertinent to its production period.

Design and Features of the TagAz Santa Fe Classic

The TagAz Santa Fe Classic maintained the familiar and well-regarded design of the first-generation Hyundai Santa Fe. As an off-road vehicle, its body type was a conventional 5-door SUV, offering seating for five occupants. The exterior design, characterized by its rounded contours and robust stance, was a hallmark of late 1990s and early 2000s SUV aesthetics, projecting an image of capability and family-friendliness without being overly aggressive. Its dimensions were substantial yet manageable, with a length of 177.17 inches (4500 mm), a width of 72.64 inches (1845 mm), and a height of 67.32 inches (1710 mm). A wheelbase of 103.15 inches (2620 mm) contributed to a stable ride and generous interior space.

Inside, the TagAz Santa Fe Classic was designed with practicality and comfort in mind. The five-seat configuration provided ample room for passengers, while the cargo area was particularly impressive. With the rear seats in place, the trunk offered a minimum volume of 30.02 cubic feet (850 liters), which could expand to a cavernous 74.16 cubic feet (2100 liters) with the rear seats folded down. This expansive cargo capacity made it an ideal vehicle for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone requiring significant hauling capability.

The suspension system was engineered to provide a balanced ride quality, capable of handling both paved roads and light off-road conditions. The front featured an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear utilized an independent coil spring suspension. This combination aimed to deliver a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics for an SUV of its size. With a ground clearance of 7.4 inches (188 mm), the Santa Fe Classic was well-equipped to tackle uneven surfaces and minor obstacles, reinforcing its “off-road vehicle” designation.

For braking, the vehicle employed ventilated disc brakes at the front and disc brakes at the rear, a common and effective setup for the period. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as a standard assisting system, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lock-up during hard braking. Steering was managed by a hydraulic rack and pinion system, providing direct feedback to the driver and easing maneuverability, especially at lower speeds or during parking. The fuel tank capacity of 17.17 US gallons (65 liters) complemented its fuel efficiency, allowing for extended driving ranges between fill-ups.

Overall, the TagAz Santa Fe Classic 2.0 CRDi (112 Hp) offered a compelling package for its target market. It combined a proven, spacious design with a robust and economical diesel powertrain, making it a practical choice for consumers in Russia seeking a versatile and reliable family SUV during its production run.

Technical Specifications: TagAz Santa Fe Classic 2.0 CRDi (112 Hp)