The minivan Hyundai Santamo 1996 - 2003 year modification 2.0 MT (139 hp) 4x4

Hyundai Santamo: A Reliable Minivan for Family Adventures

The Hyundai Santamo, a minivan produced between 1996 and 2003, is a versatile and practical vehicle designed for families and those who value space and reliability. With its 2.0 MT (139 hp) 4x4 configuration, this South Korean-made car offers a blend of performance, comfort, and durability. Its five-door design and spacious interior make it an excellent choice for long trips or daily commutes. Let’s dive into the details of what makes the Hyundai Santamo a standout in its class.

Performance and Efficiency

The Hyundai Santamo is powered by a 2.0-liter petrol engine that delivers 139 horsepower, ensuring a smooth and responsive driving experience. With a maximum speed of 175 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.1 seconds, this minivan strikes a balance between power and practicality. Its fuel consumption is reasonable for its class, with 13.4 l/100 km in the city, 7.5 l/100 km on the highway, and a combined average of 10.5 l/100 km. The full-time 4x4 drive system enhances traction and stability, making it suitable for various road conditions.

Engine and Transmission

Under the hood, the Santamo features a front-mounted, transverse 4-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1975 cm³. The engine is equipped with distributed injection and produces a maximum torque of 182 N*m at 4900 rpm. The 5-speed manual transmission ensures precise gear shifts and contributes to the car’s overall efficiency. The engine’s in-line cylinder arrangement and 4 valves per cylinder design enhance performance and reliability.

Design and Dimensions

The Hyundai Santamo’s minivan body type offers ample space for passengers and cargo. With dimensions of 4515 mm in length, 1695 mm in width, and 1580 mm in height, it provides a comfortable interior without compromising maneuverability. The wheelbase of 2720 mm ensures stability, while the ground clearance of 160 mm allows for confident driving on uneven surfaces. The trunk volume is impressive, ranging from 210 liters to 1715 liters, making it ideal for family trips or hauling large items.

Suspension and Braking System

The Santamo’s suspension system is designed for comfort and durability. The front suspension is independent and spring-based, while the rear suspension is semi-independent with springs. This setup ensures a smooth ride even on rough roads. The braking system includes ventilated front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, providing reliable stopping power. The 195/70 R14 wheel size further enhances stability and handling.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Spacious interior, reliable 4x4 drive system, decent fuel efficiency for its class, and a robust engine with good torque.
• Cons: Acceleration is modest compared to modern vehicles, and the rear drum brakes may feel outdated to some drivers.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Santamo is a dependable minivan that combines practicality, performance, and comfort. Its spacious interior, reliable 4x4 system, and efficient engine make it an excellent choice for families and adventurers alike. While it may not boast the latest technology or fastest acceleration, its durability and versatility ensure it remains a solid option in the used car market. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly minivan that can handle both city streets and off-road adventures, the Hyundai Santamo is worth considering.