
I recently wrote about the possibility of an off-road Santa Cruz, inspired by the Hyundai Tucson that is heading to SEMA. One of the main barriers that I mentioned was the absence of a viable AWD system.
Today I saw this video that features the new AWD for the Genesis. Could this be exactly the thing that was missing?
They installed several strips of LEDs on all four wheels, a bit like what people do to their bicycles. This helps us better visualize how each corner of the Genesis behaves.
They then put the car to the test on a skid track. When the vehicle senses one axle loses traction, power is sent to the other one.
The Genesis is by no means an off-road vehicle, but neither is the Santa Cruz really. Maybe this AWD system is just the thing that the Santa Cruz needs for an off-road version. Think of it more as a styling package with some extra features. It would look more rugged, and have AWD, maybe be raised a bit. Still, it won't be the height of off-road driving. Great for urban people who want that look and some extra capabilities.The HTRAC all-wheel drive system was developed as a multi-mode system, providing an electronic, variable-torque-split clutch with active torque control between the front and rear axles.