Oddly enough, even though the refreshed N.A.-spec 2010 Santa Fe is already available at Hyundai dealers, the Korean automaker waited for the Detroit auto show to release official information on its mid-size crossover. The big news for the 2010MY Santa Fe are the new four-cylinder and V6 engines that are paired to six-speed transmissions improving both fuel economy and vehicle performance.
Replacing the outgoing 2.7-liter V6 with 185HP and 183 lb-ft of torque is Hyundai's second generation 2.4-liter DOHC Theta II inline four-cylinder engine that makes 175 horsepower and 169 lb.-ft. of torque.
Despite the fact that it's less powerful, Hyundai says that the four-cylinder engine delivers quicker zero-to-60 miles-per-hour acceleration (no numbers were released) and better fuel economy than its predecessor.
The Korean maker announces a 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway fuel economy rating with front wheel drive and the new six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC ('09 2.7 V6 FWD five-speed manual: 17mpg / 24mpg)
The 2009 Santa Fe's Lambda 3.3-liter V6 engine has also been replaced by a new Lambda II 3.5-liter V6 engine that churns out 34 more horsepower and 22 more pound-feet of torque for an overall output of 276HP and 248 lb.-ft.
The mileage figures for the 3.5 V6-powered Santa Fe are 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway (FWD/AT).
Along with the new powertrains, the 2010 Santa Fe also received a mild exterior makeover with new bumper fascias, foglights, bodyside moldings, wheels and grille.
Also new for 2010 is the fuel economy indicator on automatic transmission models, rollover sensors for the side curtain airbags and a new touch screen navigation system.
