Hyundai Says No to Turbo-Diesel Option for 2019 Santa Fe
Earlier this year, Hyundai was planning to offer a turbo-diesel engine option for the new 2019 Santa Fe. But those plans have now been called off.
Hyundai confirmed earlier this month that the 2019 Santa Fe will not be available with a 2.2-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine in the U.S. The automaker is also canceling its plans for a diesel-only three-row variant of the Santa Fe.
According to a Hyundai spokesperson, studies show that potential customers aren’t looking for crossovers equipped with turbo-diesel engines. With lower gas prices, more-efficient diesel isn’t as big a priority for crossover buyers.
Hyundai’s partner, Kia, also recently canceled a turbo-diesel option for its Sorento crossover.
Stylish Crossover: Learn more about the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
Although Hyundai is no longer planning on offering its first diesel engine for the U.S. market, it hasn’t ruled out offering the Santa Fe as a plug-in hybrid — a move more in keeping with where the automaker, and the industry, is headed.
For now, though, Hyundai will stick with two powertrain options for the Santa Fe. The vehicle’s standard equipment is a 2.4-liter inline-four engine that makes 185 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This engine gets a combined 25 mpg on FWD models and 23 mpg with AWD.
The Santa Fe also offers an available 2.0-liter turbo inline-four engine that delivers 235 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine gets a combined 22 mpg on FWD models and 21 mpg with AWD.
Meet the 2019 Lineup: A look at the cars and SUVs offered by Hyundai
News Source: Green Car Reports
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