The TagAz Santa Fe Classic represents a unique chapter in the history of a globally recognized SUV, specifically an iteration of the first-generation Hyundai Santa Fe produced under license by the Taganrog Automobile Plant (TagAZ) in Russia. This particular model, the TagAz Santa Fe Classic 2.0 CRDi (112 Hp) 4WD, emerged during a production run from 2006 to 2009, primarily serving markets within Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) where its rugged construction and established design resonated with local consumer demands for a capable and durable off-road vehicle. Positioning itself as a mid-size SUV, the Santa Fe Classic offered a compelling blend of utility, space, and all-wheel-drive capability, making it a practical choice for varied driving conditions, from urban commutes to challenging rural terrains.
Powertrain and Performance of the TagAz Santa Fe Classic
At the heart of the TagAz Santa Fe Classic 2.0 CRDi (112 Hp) 4WD lies a robust 2.0-liter Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi) diesel engine, an inline four-cylinder unit designed for efficiency and durability. This powerplant generates a respectable 112 horsepower at 4000 revolutions per minute, providing ample motivation for its intended use. More significantly for an off-road vehicle, the engine delivers a substantial 191.77 pound-feet of torque, peaking at a low 2000 rpm. This low-end torque is crucial for navigating challenging terrain and for general drivability, allowing for strong pulling power even at lower engine speeds. The engine’s architecture features a front, transverse layout, and benefits from a turbocharger and intercooler system, enhancing both power output and thermal efficiency. With a compression ratio of 17.7:1 and four valves per cylinder, the engine is engineered for reliable performance and fuel economy.
Power is channeled to all four wheels through a conventional yet effective 5-speed manual transmission, offering the driver direct control over the vehicle’s dynamics, particularly beneficial in off-road situations where precise gear selection is paramount. The full-time all-wheel-drive (4×4) system ensures stable traction across diverse surfaces, from slippery roads to uneven trails. While not designed for scorching acceleration, the TagAz Santa Fe Classic 2.0 CRDi delivers a pragmatic level of performance. It accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a measured 14.2 seconds, with a maximum speed of 103.15 mph. These figures underscore its role as a utilitarian vehicle rather than a performance-oriented one, prioritizing reliability and capability over outright speed.
Fuel efficiency is a key attribute of this diesel-powered SUV. The combined fuel consumption is rated at an economical 30.9 US miles per gallon, a significant advantage for a vehicle of its size and capability, especially in markets where diesel fuel is prevalent and efficiency is highly valued. In urban settings, it achieves 24.8 US mpg, while on the highway, it can reach an impressive 36.2 US mpg. The vehicle adheres to the Euro 3 emission standard, reflecting its environmental compliance during its production era. The engine oil capacity is 6.23 US quarts, and the cooling system holds 9.19 US quarts, indicating robust fluid capacities for demanding conditions.
Design and Practicality
The TagAz Santa Fe Classic embodies the rugged yet approachable design language of the first-generation Hyundai Santa Fe, characterized by its distinctive lines and substantial road presence. As an off-road vehicle with a 5-door, 5-seat configuration, it prioritizes functionality and passenger comfort. Its overall length measures 177.17 inches, with a width of 72.64 inches and a height of 68.11 inches. A wheelbase of 103.15 inches contributes to a stable ride and generous interior space for occupants. The ground clearance of 8.15 inches is adequate for tackling moderate off-road obstacles, enhancing its versatility beyond paved roads.
Inside, the TagAz Santa Fe Classic focuses on practicality and durability, offering a spacious cabin suitable for families or those needing ample cargo capacity. The minimum trunk space starts at a substantial 30.02 cubic feet, which can be expanded significantly to a maximum of 74.16 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This cavernous cargo area makes it highly capable for hauling luggage, sports equipment, or supplies, reinforcing its utility as an adventure-ready vehicle. The fuel tank capacity of 17.17 US gallons provides a good cruising range, reducing the frequency of fuel stops during long journeys.
The vehicle’s chassis and suspension systems are engineered to provide a balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability. The front suspension features an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, designed to absorb road imperfections effectively while maintaining stability. The rear suspension also utilizes an independent coil spring system, further contributing to ride comfort and wheel articulation on uneven surfaces. Braking performance is handled by ventilated disc brakes at the front and disc brakes at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety during emergency stops. The steering system is a hydraulic rack and pinion setup, providing direct feedback and ease of maneuverability, particularly appreciated in tight parking situations or when navigating challenging trails.
Technical Specifications: TagAz Santa Fe Classic 2.0 CRDi (112 Hp) 4WD
| Brand | TagAz |
| Model | Santa Fe Classic |
| Generation | Santa Fe Classic |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CRDi (112 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2006 year |
| End of production | 2009 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 24.8 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 36.2 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 30.9 US mpg |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 103.15 mph |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16 kg/Hp, 62.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 145 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 112 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per liter | 56.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 191.77 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 121.5 cu. in. (1991 cm3) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 3.27 in. (83 mm) |
| Piston Stroke | 3.62 in. (92 mm) |
| Compression ratio | 17.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.23 US qt (5.9 l) |
| Coolant | 9.19 US qt (8.7 l) |
| Kerb Weight | 3952.89 – 4182.17 lbs. (1793-1897 kg) |
| Max. weight | 5555.65 lbs. (2520 kg) |
| Max load | 1373.48 – 1602.76 lbs. (623-727 kg) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 30.02 cu. ft. (850 l) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 74.16 cu. ft. (2100 l) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 17.17 US gal (65 l) |
| Length | 177.17 in. (4500 mm) |
| Width | 72.64 in. (1845 mm) |
| Height | 68.11 in. (1730 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 103.15 in. (2620 mm) |
| Front track | 60.63 in. (1540 mm) |
| Rear (Back) track | 60.63 in. (1540 mm) |
| Front overhang | 35.24 in. (895 mm) |
| Rear overhang | 38.78 in. (985 mm) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 8.15 in. (207 mm) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
