Hyundai Developing Two Hybrid Santa Fe Models

The all-new Hyundai Sante Fe will soon be offered with two electrified powertrains as part of the automaker’s plans to increase its fleet of EVs and hybrids.

Hyundai confirmed the news to Autocar during the Santa Fe’s recent global launch in Barcelona. The first electrified variant will be a traditional hybrid while the second will be a slightly more advanced plug-in hybrid.

While the Santa Fe is new to hybrid powertrains, Hyundai isn’t. Most notably, the carmaker sells the eye-catching Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid, though it is unlikely this car’s powertrain will be used for the Santa Fe. While it is entirely possible Hyundai will develop a new hybrid system for the Santa Fe, there’s also a chance the 2.0-liter petrol powertrain of the Kia Optima PHEV could be featured for the plug-in hybrid SUV.

Hybrid tech to perfectly complement the Santa Fe’s new looks

As for the traditional hybrid Santa Fe, it could borrow components from the Kia Niro.

The new Santa Fe only landed in the UK earlier this month. It will initially be offered with a 2.2-liter CRDi ‘R’ diesel engine that incorporates selective catalytic reduction and NOx trap alongside a DPF particulate system. This engine outputs 197 hp and 324 lb-ft of torque with drive sent through either the front wheels or all four wheels.

customers who opt for the all-wheel drive Santa Fe receive the firm’s HTRAC system. This system offers Sport, Comfort and Eco modes to allow the driver to alter the level of torque distribution.