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Hyundai Santa Fe: DM and TM generations, engines and trims
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a large SUV with five or seven seats, prized in the used market for its space, comfort and powerful diesel engine. We focus mainly on the DM (2012–2018) and TM (from 2018) generations, with a brief look at the latest MX5.
Santa Fe in brief
The Santa Fe has been in production since 2000 and is one of Hyundai’s largest SUVs in Europe. It competes with the Kia Sorento, Škoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace and Toyota RAV4, with technology closely related to the Kia Sorento.
Many used Santa Fes come with four-wheel drive and the potent 2.2 CRDi diesel engine, making them a popular choice for families, frequent travellers and those who tow caravans. In many European countries, Hyundai offers a 5-year unlimited-mileage warranty on new cars, which transfers to subsequent owners if the car is serviced according to the manufacturer’s requirements.
DM vs TM — what’s the difference
The DM generation (2012–2018) is a comfortable, well-equipped and reliable SUV. Alongside it in Europe was the longer seven-seat Grand Santa Fe, which is also commonly found in the used market.
The TM generation (from 2018) is larger, more modern and often a seven-seater. By the end of 2020, it had been significantly refreshed: a new platform, revised front end and interior with a rotary gear selector, plus the addition of a hybrid and plug-in hybrid to the range.
In 2024, Mazda refreshes the MX-5 generation — with a more angular design, even roomier, and now available only with hybrid transmissions. For most used-car buyers, the MX-5 is the best choice, especially after the refresh.
Engines and transmissions
The DM generation is dominated by the 2.2 CRDi diesel engine (around 197–200 hp); in some markets, a weaker 2.0 CRDi and 2.4 petrol engine were also offered.
In the MX-5 generation, before the refresh, the most common engine was the 2.2 CRDi (200 hp) with an 8-speed automatic transmission. After the refresh — 2.2 CRDi (202 hp) with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, hybrid HEV (around 230 hp) and plug-in hybrid PHEV (around 265 hp, always with all-wheel drive).
All-wheel drive (MX-5 generation — HTRAC) is available with most engines, and the majority of used cars in the market have it. Manual transmissions are rarely found.
What to check when buying a used Santa Fe
In diesel cars, check the particulate filter (DPF) and EGR, especially if the car has mostly been driven in the city. Automatic and dual-clutch transmissions should shift smoothly, without judders or hesitation.
If the car has a tow hitch, ask if it has towed heavy trailers — this puts extra strain on the transmission, all-wheel-drive system, and brakes. In all-wheel-drive versions, make sure the differential works without binding, and the suspension doesn't clunk.
Check the third row of seats and its mechanism, and in hybrids, look for any error messages. For PHEVs, check the charging equipment. Inspect the ride based on service records and technical inspections, and check the remaining warranty and recall campaigns with the official Hyundai representative using the VIN code.
Trims
Hyundai trim names vary by country and year; we list the names used in Germany, which are often found among cars imported to Lithuania.
Select
TMThe base TM trim is already well-equipped.
- Light-alloy wheels
- Primary safety and driver-assistance systems
- Often — rear-view camera
Trend
TMThe most popular choice — a good balance of price and comfort.
- Often — navigation and digital instrument cluster
- Often — heated seats and steering wheel
- Often — keyless entry
Premium
TMA higher trim for comfort enthusiasts.
- Often — leather seats
- Often — LED headlights
- Often — electrically operated tailgate
Signature
TM post-2020 faceliftThe top spec of the facelifted TM.
- Often — higher-grade leather interior
- Often — heated seats and panoramic sunroof
- Often — a plethora of driver assistance systems
Comparison of TM generations
| Trend | Premium | Signature | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | The sensible family buyer | Comfort seekers | Those wanting everything the model offers |
| Wheels (most often) | 17–18 inch | 18–19 inch | 19 inch |
| Interior | Base | Often leather, more equipment | Luxurious trim, heated seats |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Budget-friendly | Mid-range | Premium |
For most buyers, the best choice is the Trend or Premium with the 2.2 CRDi engine or hybrid powertrain. The Signature is worth considering for luxury, but the plug-in hybrid only makes sense if you have a regular place to charge it.
Pros
- Spacious interior, often with seven seats
- The 2.2 CRDi diesel is powerful and suitable for towing
- Generous equipment and a comfortable ride
- Long factory warranty with no mileage limit
Cons
- High fuel consumption in the city, especially with all-wheel drive
- The third row of seats is best for kids
- High maintenance costs for a large car — tyres, brakes, suspension
Frequently asked questions
Which Santa Fe generation is best to buy used?
For many buyers, the best choice is the TM generation, especially after the 2020 refresh: more modern, safer, and often with remaining factory warranty. For a tighter budget, a well-maintained DM with the 2.2 CRDi engine is a good fit.
Are all Santa Fe models seven-seaters?
No. Seven seats were standard or optional in many markets, so you'll find five-seaters in the used market too. Before buying, check the registration documents to confirm the number of seats.
Should you choose a diesel or hybrid Santa Fe?
For those who do a lot of out-of-town driving and tow trailers, the 2.2 CRDi diesel is more suitable. For city dwellers, a hybrid (HEV) makes more sense, and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) only pays off if you have somewhere to charge it daily.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
