The hot-selling Hyundai Santa Fe sport utility vehicle got even more popular this summer with the addition of the 3.5-liter V6 engine. The Santa Fe 3.5-liter was introduced late in the 2003 model year. For 2004, the 3.5-liter engine is now standard on the LX model (where it replaces the 2.7-liter V6) and is available on the GLS model.
All Santa Fe 3.5-liter models include the 3.5-liter V6 engine, smooth-shifting 5-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission and ABS with traction control. Customers who select available 4WD with the 3.5-liter will also benefit from a new, state-of-the-art electronic 4WD system.
3.5-LITER ENGINE AND 5-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Hyundai's proven Sigma 3.5-liter engine is rated at 200 horsepower at 5,500 RPM and delivers 219 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 RPM. This sophisticated engine, which features a strong cast-iron block and multi-valve aluminum cylinder heads, is also used in the luxurious Hyundai XG350 sedan.
The 3.5-liter engine is matched to Hyundai's 5-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission. This electronically controlled transmission offers drivers the choice of
leaving the lever in Drive or moving the lever to the right gate for manual control.
The transmission features fuzzy logic and is fully adaptive, so it "learns" a driver's preferences and matches them. Fuzzy logic is also helpful when driving in situations with elevation changes.
NEW ELECTRONIC 4WD SYSTEM
The advanced electronic 4WD system available with the Santa Fe 3.5-liter was designed by Borg-Warner and features InterActive Torque Management (ITM). When the system senses that the front wheels are slipping, it automatically transfers power to the rear wheels. When the front wheels are no longer slipping, power to the rear wheels is reduced or eliminated. This electronic system manages power between the front and rear wheels for maximum vehicle traction and fuel economy.
The ITM system consists of three sections in one compact, lightweight package; there is the actuating section, the torque transmitting section and the Electronic Control Unit (ECU). The unit is mounted in front of the rear differential on the Santa Fe. The ECU receives signals from sensors and monitors wheel speed, throttle position and steering angle.
When the ECU senses the need for additional torque at the rear wheels, it sends a signal to the actuating section which causes the multiple wet clutches to compress and send torque to the rear axle. The system is automatic; there are no buttons to push or levers to move -- 4WD traction is there whenever the driver needs it.
The Santa Fe 3.5-liter also features specially tuned spring rates and shock absorbers. In addition, the rear suspension of the Santa Fe has been modified slightly to accommodate the ITM 4WD system installation.
KEY CHANGES
At the start of the 2003 model year, the Santa Fe was upgraded to include driver and front passenger side impact airbags as standard equipment. New Monsoon stereo systems were added for the GLS and LX models and the HomeLink system was added as standard equipment on the LX model.
Other changes to the Santa Fe were completed in the middle of the 2002 model year. Those enhancements included a revised dashboard center stack, larger air conditioning vents, improved map light and overhead console design and an optional power sliding moonroof.
Also added: illuminated power window switches, illuminated glove box interior, gas-charged struts that make it easier to raise the hood, a revised, easier-to-use seat recliner and folding mechanism, two outboard ISOFIX child seat anchors, chrome
PRNDL (gear selector) surround and shift lever button (GLS and LX only) and chrome inside door handles and parking brake knob.
Taking care of all the details-- large and small -- increases customer satisfaction. These continuing refinements and changes are just part of Hyundai's ongoing efforts designed to provide even more quality, value and comfort for their customers.
LISTENING TO SANTA FE BUYERS
"Santa Fe buyers are very clear about what they want in their vehicle. We listen to their suggestions and incorporate them when possible," said Robert Cosmai, acting president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. "Many of the changes that our customers suggested are now included in the Santa Fe. When Santa Fe buyers told us they wanted a power moonroof, we listened. A power moonroof is now available. And now we are offering the Santa Fe 3.5-liter. We intend to keep meeting the needs of our customers and keep Santa Fe the value leader in its class," Cosmai added.
Source: Hyundai
