Santana Motors Returns: What Does the Revival Mean for Car Buyers?

Daily Car

·

15/12/2025

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Q - What vehicles is Santana Motors offering after its return and what are their main technical parameters?

Santana Motors has resumed production in Spain focusing on the new 400D plus 400 PHEV pickup trucks. The 400D features a 2.3-liter diesel engine that produces 188 horsepower (140 kW) and 369 lb ft (500 Nm) of torque. Buyers choose between a six speed manual or an eight speed automatic transmission. It accelerates from 0 - 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 9.1 seconds but also reaches a top speed of 106 mph (170 km/h). Towing capacity reaches 7,055 lbs (3,200 kg); payload is 1,797 lbs (815 kg).

The 400 PHEV (plug-in hybrid) combines a 1.5-liter gasoline engine, an electric motor and a 32 kWh battery. It delivers a combined 422 horsepower (315 kW) as well as 590 lb ft (800 Nm) of torque and accelerates from 0-62 mph in 6.5 seconds. Expected electric only range is 75 miles (120 km) and overall range reaches up to 650 miles (1,046 km).

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Q - What design highlights or practical features stand out on those models?

Both models share robust, modern pickup styling. The 400 PHEV is well equipped - standard four wheel drive, side steps, LED headlights and a sunroof increase functionality also comfort. The interior features a 10-inch digital instrument display, a 14.6-inch infotainment system, heated and ventilated imitation leather seats, dual zone climate, a six speaker stereo next to a 50-watt wireless phone charger. Practical touches include a 6 kW power supply for tools or camping.

Q - How do those models compare to competitors in specs and price?

Santana's pickups are competitively positioned. The plug in hybrid starts at €29,900 ($35,118) undercutting the Spanish-built Ford Ranger Double Cab, which starts at €31,050 ($36,473). The diesel version is priced at €44,700 ($52,501). In terms of equipment, Santana's feature list is extensive, especially in driver assistance plus connectivity matching or exceeding rivals.

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Q - What driver assistance and safety technologies do the new Santana vehicles include?

Standard features include adaptive cruise control (automatically maintains safe distance on highways), emergency braking (automatic stopping in emergencies), traffic jam assist, lane keeping (alerts or steers if drifting) but also road sign recognition. Higher trim levels offer advanced features - highway assist, cross traffic alert/braking, blind spot detection and lane change aid. Those systems use sensors as well as cameras to enhance safety and lower driver burden.

Q - What future plans or industry partnerships does Santana show?

Santana has partnered with China's BAIC enabling assembly of BAIC vehicles in Spain from semi-knocked-down kits. The company will expand into passenger off road vehicles between 2026 and 2028, gradually introducing rebadged and jointly developed models tailored for European customers. This strategy follows current trends of global cooperation also electrification in the automotive market.

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Q - How does Santana's return fit into wider automotive industry trends?

Santana Motors leverages partnerships and existing vehicle designs to quickly bring relevant models to market. The emphasis on hybrid technology, strong utility next to advanced safety features aligns with global shifts towards electrification and digitalization. Its competitive pricing plus local production provide additional market appeal against established brands.

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