Is HTRAC All Wheel Drive the Right Choice for the 2026 Santa Fe if You Commute Around Wisconsin Rapids, WI?

Stevens Point Auto Center – Is HTRAC All Wheel Drive the Right Choice for the 2026 Santa Fe if You Commute Around Wisconsin Rapids, WI?

Shoppers comparing three-row SUVs often ask whether optional HTRAC All Wheel Drive is worth adding to the 2026 Santa Fe. If your routine includes winter weather, early-morning commutes, or weekend drives on gravel and unplowed roads, the short answer is yes. HTRAC is engineered to actively vary torque distribution between the front and rear axles, helping the Santa Fe maintain composure when surfaces change. Paired with the 2.5L Turbocharged GDI/MPI 4-cylinder producing 277 horsepower, the system adds traction without dulling the vehicle’s calm, responsive character. Choose the XRT and you’ll gain additional ground clearance and all-terrain tires, broadening your comfort zone when winter arrives or the pavement ends.

There is a second aspect many drivers overlook: how HTRAC complements Hyundai SmartSense technologies during long highway stretches and bad-weather nights. Features such as Lane Following Assist (LFA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Smart Cruise Control 2 (SCC2), and, depending on trim, Highway Driving Assist (HDA) or Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2) are most reassuring when the vehicle’s traction systems are also enhancing stability. Together, they support a smooth, confident drive that feels less tiring over time. If your daily drive involves bridges that ice early, rural routes with drifting snow, or late returns after events, HTRAC can be a wise investment in peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What does HTRAC All Wheel Drive do in everyday driving?

HTRAC helps distribute torque between the front and rear axles based on traction and throttle inputs. On rain-slick roads, slush, or gravel, this can improve grip and stability, helping the Santa Fe track more confidently through corners and when accelerating from a stop.

Will HTRAC help me in deep snow?

HTRAC can enhance traction, particularly when paired with appropriate winter tires. While no system can overcome the limits of physics, HTRAC is designed to help you get moving and maintain control as conditions vary. For frequent winter driving, the XRT’s added ground clearance is also beneficial.

Does adding HTRAC change towing capability?

On the XRT, Santa Fe offers up to a 4,500-lb. towing capacity when properly equipped. If towing is part of your plan—small campers, utility trailers, or weekend gear—HTRAC can add confidence when launching on wet ramps or ascending gravel driveways.

Which trims pair best with HTRAC?

HTRAC All Wheel Drive is optional across Santa Fe gas trims. Many shoppers choose SEL or Limited for their comfort and tech balance, while XRT adds the most all-terrain confidence with tires, styling, and increased ground clearance.

• Daily driving needs: If your route sees snow, slush, or gravel, HTRAC is a smart add for control and confidence.
• Feature pairing: Combine HTRAC with available 12.3-inch displays, Bluelink+, and Hyundai SmartSense for a comprehensive family SUV.
• Weekend plans: For towing and trailheads, consider XRT for ground clearance and hardware that suits outdoor routines.
• Test drive checklist: Drive the same loop in FWD and HTRAC-equipped models if possible to feel traction differences.

If you want help comparing trims and configurations, Stevens Point Auto Center can set up a side-by-side drive and walk through equipment differences. With one visit, you will understand how HTRAC layers traction confidence on top of Santa Fe’s already composed ride and robust safety tech, serving Plover, Wisconsin Rapids, and Waupaca with the kind of clarity that makes decisions easy.

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