How Does HTRAC All Wheel Drive on the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Handle Winter Roads around Farmington Hills, MI?

Oct 14, 2025

Glassman Hyundai – How Does HTRAC All Wheel Drive on the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Handle Winter Roads around Farmington Hills, MI?

When snow starts to fly in Southeast Michigan, confident traction becomes a need, not a nice-to-have. If you are comparing family SUVs and wondering how HTRAC All Wheel Drive works on the 2026 Hyundai SANTA FE, this guide breaks it down in plain language and connects the tech to real winter driving around Farmington Hills, MI and neighboring communities. You will learn what HTRAC does, how it adapts to conditions, which trims to consider, and how to test it properly.

HTRAC All Wheel Drive is Hyundai’s dynamic torque-splitting system engineered to balance traction and agility. Rather than simply “turning on” all four wheels, HTRAC continually analyzes wheel speed, yaw rate, throttle input, and steering angle to anticipate slip and apportion torque between the front and rear axles. In low-grip moments—think slushy intersections or icy neighborhood hills—it can proactively send more power rearward to help the SANTA FE stay composed. When the road clears, it transitions seamlessly for efficient cruising and a natural steering feel.

Drive modes shape the HTRAC experience. In normal winter commuting, Comfort or Smart mode delivers a planted, predictable response with smooth launches and calm steering. Sport mode sharpens throttle and can bias torque rearward for a more confident, controlled “push” out of slick corners. If you frequently leave plowed routes—unpaved lanes to a cabin, rutted driveways, or slushy shoulders—the XRT trim’s additional ground clearance and all-terrain tires add helpful stability. The system is tuned to avoid drama: you will sense calm, measured traction rather than abrupt intervention.

Braking and stability support HTRAC, too. Hyundai SmartSense brings Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection standard. Available features such as Surround View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor enhance awareness when snowbanks crowd sightlines. In tight winter parking, available Remote Smart Parking Assist can help maneuver the SANTA FE into or out of a space while you stand outside—ideal when plow piles shrink your margins.

To feel HTRAC at its best, test drive on mixed surfaces. Include a wet side street, a few unplowed edges, and a quick highway merge. Notice how steady the launch feels at a salted four-way stop and how the steering remains calm when your right wheels roll over packed snow. HTRAC’s value is subtle confidence: fewer wheelslip lights, fewer nervous corrections, more point-and-go composure.

Trim choice: HTRAC AWD is available across most trims and standard on XRT. Choose the cabin and tech you prefer, then add HTRAC for winter assurance.
Tires matter: HTRAC helps you use available traction, but winter-rated tires expand that traction window dramatically.
Ground clearance: XRT’s added height and all-terrain tires provide extra stability when streets are rutted with heavy snow.
Visibility tech: Consider the available full-display digital rearview mirror and Surround View Monitor to counter snow-obstructed views.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is HTRAC always on, or do I need to activate it?

HTRAC operates automatically, varying torque split based on grip and driver inputs. You do not need to engage it; select a drive mode and let the system adapt in the background.

Which 2026 SANTA FE trim is best for snow?

Pair your preferred trim with HTRAC AWD. For drivers who frequently encounter deeper snow, the XRT’s additional ground clearance and all-terrain tires amplify confidence.

Will HTRAC help on icy hills and angled driveways?

Yes. While proper winter tires are key, HTRAC’s proactive rear torque bias and smart brake-based traction support help the vehicle launch and climb with fewer wheelspin moments.

Does SANTA FE offer tech that helps in winter parking?

Available Surround View Monitor delivers a 360-degree view that is useful when snowbanks block curbs, and available Remote Smart Parking Assist can help guide the vehicle into or out of tight spaces.

If you are weighing whether HTRAC AWD fits your winter routine, the short answer is yes—especially if your week spans school drop-offs, freeway commutes, and side streets that do not get plowed right away. Stop by for a demo drive that includes real local routes and feel how naturally the system supports you. Glassman Hyundai is serving Troy, Farmington Hills, and Dearborn with hands-on comparisons, feature walkarounds, and tailored test drive routes so you can decide with confidence.