Is HTRAC All Wheel Drive on the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid the Right Choice for Farmington Hills, MI Commuters?

Oct 15, 2025

Glassman Hyundai – Is HTRAC All Wheel Drive on the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid the Right Choice for Farmington Hills, MI Commuters?

For many local drivers, the decision to add HTRAC All Wheel Drive to the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid comes down to how—and where—you drive. Farmington Hills, MI commuters often face wet springs, surprise fall storms, and freeze-thaw cycles that leave roads uneven. HTRAC enhances traction by distributing torque to the wheels that can use it best, helping the Santa Fe Hybrid feel planted when surfaces are slick or unpredictable. Because the hybrid system delivers strong low-end response, the pairing with HTRAC gives you smooth pull-away in traffic and extra composure when conditions change mid-commute.

Dynamics matter too. The Santa Fe Hybrid already rides with a confident, upright stance. Add HTRAC, and you’ll notice steadier footing on crowned back roads and positive tracking during quick lane changes. That stability also helps when merging onto I-696 or navigating rutted stretches after winter. HTRAC works alongside Hyundai SmartSense driver-assistance features—like Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist—to help reduce the workload on long drives. If you’re choosing a family SUV to commute during the week and hit the trailhead on weekends, the HTRAC-equipped Santa Fe Hybrid brings trustworthy capability without feeling heavy or harsh.

Daily traction: HTRAC helps manage power delivery on paint lines, damp leaves, and patchy ice, smoothing out the unexpected moments of a Michigan commute.
Highway stability: The system supports confident lane changes and steady tracking as crosswinds and traffic patterns fluctuate.
Light off-pavement: For gravel drives or park trails, HTRAC’s added grip complements the Santa Fe Hybrid’s torque-rich hybrid power.
Hybrid synergy: The special six-speed automatic and electric motor’s instant response pair naturally with HTRAC’s predictive control.

Which trims make the most sense if HTRAC is on your list? The Santa Fe Hybrid’s lineup offers available HTRAC across trims, so you can prioritize features like Blind-Spot View Monitor, Surround View Monitor, the available full-display digital rearview mirror, and dual wireless device charging. For commuters who park in garages or downtown structures, Remote Smart Parking Assist—available on upper trims—adds daily convenience by moving the vehicle into or out of tight spots while you’re outside using the Smart Key.

If winter assurance is your top priority, consider pairing HTRAC with a good set of winter tires. While HTRAC refines traction and balance, specialized rubber compounds and tread patterns help you stop and go more confidently on snow and ice. Ask a product specialist to review tire and wheel options that fit your route and schedule. One final note: technology works best when you’re comfortable using it. During a test drive, take time to explore the Santa Fe Hybrid’s 12.3-inch displays, Driver Attention Warning, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, and see how the systems support your driving style.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Does HTRAC All Wheel Drive change efficiency significantly?

HTRAC adds capability and confidence. Actual efficiency varies with driving style, weather, and routes. Many commuters find the tradeoff worth it for year-round traction and composure.

Is HTRAC helpful if I already plan to use winter tires?

Yes. Winter tires improve grip during cold, snowy conditions, while HTRAC optimizes torque distribution. Together, they deliver a balanced, secure feel on challenging days.

Can I get advanced safety features with HTRAC?

Absolutely. HTRAC is available across trims that also offer Hyundai SmartSense features such as Blind-Spot View Monitor, Surround View Monitor, and Highway Driving Assist or Highway Driving Assist 2, depending on trim.

To explore configurations and schedule a focused test drive, contact Glassman Hyundai—serving Troy, Farmington Hills, and Dearborn—to build the Santa Fe Hybrid that matches your commute and weekend plans.