In brief, the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe lineup centers on a 3.3-liter V6 for the standard model, while the Santa Fe Sport variant offers smaller four-cylinder options, including a 2.4-liter and a 2.0-liter turbo. This article breaks down the engines by model and trim to help you identify the powerplant in a 2018 Santa Fe.
Engine options by Santa Fe model
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe (non-Sport)
The full-size Santa Fe in 2018 is powered by a single gasoline engine option designed for power and towing, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Engine details:
- 3.3-liter Lambda V6 — 291 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque; 6-speed automatic transmission; available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The 3.3L V6 is the only engine offered for the non-Sport Santa Fe in 2018, making it the higher-power choice within the lineup.
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
The Santa Fe Sport, the smaller variant, offered two four-cylinder engines designed for efficiency and performance, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Engine options:
- 2.4-liter inline-4 — about 185 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque; 6-speed automatic; optional all-wheel drive.
- 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 — about 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque; 6-speed automatic; often paired with all-wheel drive.
These engines provide a balance of efficiency and performance, with the turbo option delivering stronger acceleration for the Sport.
Notes on transmission and performance
Across the 2018 Santa Fe family, Hyundai generally used a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC/manual shift mode. All-wheel drive was available on most trims, and the turbo engine option in the Santa Fe Sport typically complemented AWD for improved traction in challenging conditions.
Summary
The 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe lineup centers on a 3.3-liter V6 for the larger model and offers two four-cylinder options for the Santa Fe Sport: a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter and a turbocharged 2.0-liter. All engines pair with a six-speed automatic transmission, and AWD is available depending on trim. This configuration aimed to balance power, efficiency, and versatility for buyers in 2018.