Hyundai is Fixing One of the Santa Fe’s Biggest Flaws For 2026
The Hyundai Santa Fe is entering the third year of its current generation. It's not yet time for a mid-cycle update, as evidenced by the minor changes it’s receiving, but one key move by Hyundai is bound to make a big difference.
You see, the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine in higher-end models will lose its eight-speed dual-clutch transmission—shared with the Santa Cruz as well as other Hyundai/Kia products—in favour of a conventional automatic transmission with torque converter, also with eight forward gears.
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The dual-clutch gearbox, which isn't really suited to an SUV or pickup, has proven disappointing in the Santa Fe not only in terms of responsiveness, but also reliability.
In fact, a major recall was issued in 2022, including the 2021-2022 Santa Fe. Inadequate soldering on the circuit board that controls the transmission oil pump could lead to malfunctions and trigger an improper fail-safe model reaction that causes the transmission to disengage. Hyundai dealers had to update the transmission control unit software and even replace the transmission at times.
History repeated itself in July 2024, this time with the latest-generation Santa Fe. In some cases, a software problem could cause the dual-clutch transmission to become damaged. As a result, the vehicle could move when parked. Once again, dealers had to update the control unit software and replace some transmissions altogether.
We expect the turbocharged Santa Fe's operation to be improved and more pleasant with a conventional automatic gearbox. Fuel economy could also increase slightly, although official ratings from Natural Resources Canada have yet to be posted. The 2025 model achieves a combined 10.6 or 10.8 L/100 km depending on the trim level.
The Santa Fe Hybrid, meanwhile, uses a six-speed automatic transmission. It delivers decent performance along with high efficiency (6.9 L/100 km on average).
Other changes to the 2026 Santa Fe lineup include minor equipment revisions, as well as a gloss black grille finish instead of dark chrome on the XRT model.
