The Hyundai Santa Cruz is making a splash in the compact truck world. It has won the 2023 Editor’s Choice award for compact pickup truck. This review will explore its features and performance, showing why it’s a top choice.
This truck stands out with its car-like handling and comfy ride. It also has a lockable cargo-box cover and in-bed trunk. These features make it stylish and functional, like the Hyundai Kona.
The Hyundai Santa Cruz starts at $25,365, making it a budget-friendly option. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds and carry 1,753 pounds, perfect for heavy loads. Let’s dive into its features and performance to see how it stacks up against others, like the Ford Maverick.
First Impressions of the Santa Cruz
The Hyundai Santa Cruz design is a mix of style and function. It stands out among other compact trucks. Its sleek, modern look makes a bold statement on the road.
The Santa Cruz has a small pickup bed, ideal for daily tasks and adventures. It can carry plywood sheets and supports up to 500 pounds on the tailgate. This makes it versatile for work or play.
Design Philosophy
The Santa Cruz aims to be both functional and stylish. It takes cues from the Hyundai Kona, like its sleek design. High-quality materials and attention to detail make it durable and long-lasting.
Street Presence
The Santa Cruz turns heads with its sleek exterior. Its compact size is great for tight spaces. It also has 8.6 inches of ground clearance for a smooth ride on different terrains.
Build Quality Assessment
The Santa Cruz’s build quality is top-notch. It’s solid and durable, offering a comfortable and safe drive. Its independent rear suspension and unibody construction rival other top trucks, like the Honda Ridgeline.
Power and Performance Specifications
The Hyundai Santa Cruz engine is a key part of its performance. It has a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that makes 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This makes it powerful and efficient, outshining other compact trucks like the Ford Maverick.
Looking at the Hyundai Kona specs, the Santa Cruz is made for those who want power. It has an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This setup lets the Santa Cruz accelerate fast and handle different driving situations well.
Some key features of the Hyundai Santa Cruz engine include:
- 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque
- 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
- Compact truck performance capabilities
The Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a mix of power, efficiency, and versatility. It’s a great choice for those looking for a compact truck. Its strong engine and transmission make it perfect for various driving needs.
Exterior Design Elements
The Hyundai Santa Cruz exterior is a perfect blend of sleek lines and rugged looks. It’s the right size for city streets and off-road trails. The design is influenced by the Hyundai Kona, with a bold grille and sleek headlights.
The Santa Cruz’s bed is 4 feet long, offering lots of storage. Its LED lights make it easy to see at night. Key features include:
- 18-inch wheels on the base model, with 20-inch wheels on higher trims
- A unique rear spoiler for better aerodynamics
- A variety of colors, like Blue Wave and Desert Sand
The Hyundai Santa Cruz shows off the brand’s focus on design and function. Its modern look is sure to catch eyes. It’s perfect for city drives or rough trails, impressing everyone it meets.
Interior Comfort and Space
The Hyundai Santa Cruz interior is made for comfort and space. It has heated and cooled seats for a top-notch drive. The design is inspired by the Hyundai Kona, known for its practicality.
Some key features of the Hyundai Santa Cruz interior include:
- Heated and cooled seats for optimal comfort
- Premium audio system for excellent sound quality
- Ample storage space for practicality
- Comfortable driving position for reduced fatigue
Compared to other compact trucks, the Hyundai Santa Cruz interior shines. It’s designed with care, focusing on comfort. The Hyundai Kona’s practicality has shaped the Santa Cruz’s interior, making it both cozy and useful.
The Hyundai Santa Cruz interior is a big part of its charm. It combines comfort, practicality, and style in a unique way. With its premium features and smart design, it’s sure to delight everyone who rides in it.
Technology Integration
The Hyundai Santa Cruz comes with advanced technology to make driving better. It has an 8-inch touchscreen and a top-notch audio system. These features are similar to the Hyundai Kona but with unique touches that make the Santa Cruz stand out.
Some of the key technology features of the Hyundai Santa Cruz include:
- Forward collision avoidance with pedestrian detection
- Lane keeping assist
- Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
These features show the Santa Cruz’s advanced tech, making it a top choice in compact trucks.
The Santa Cruz’s technology is all about safety and convenience. Its features and easy-to-use interface make it a great pick for those wanting a tech-savvy compact truck.
Cargo Solutions and Versatility
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is great for those who need a versatile vehicle. It has a small pickup bed with lots of storage space. You can find tie-downs and storage bins to help you organize your cargo.
Compared to other vehicles like the Hyundai Kona, the Santa Cruz stands out. Its cargo bed is perfect for daily tasks and weekend trips. You can add a bed extender and tie-downs for more convenience.
Some key features of the Hyundai Santa Cruz cargo area include:
- 27 cubic feet of cargo volume in the bed
- Three closeable storage pockets within the bed
- Optional bed extender and integrated tie-downs
- Payload capacity of up to 1,609 pounds
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a great choice for a compact truck. Its flexible cargo area and optional features make it perfect for many needs and lifestyles.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Cargo Volume | 27 cubic feet |
| Payload Capacity | Up to 1,609 pounds |
| Bed Length | 52.1 inches |
| Bed Width | 42.6 inches |
Official Hyundai Santa Cruz Review Data
The Hyundai Santa Cruz has caught a lot of attention. It’s known for its style, capability, and features. We’ll look at the official review data, including safety ratings, fuel economy, and warranty coverage. If you’ve seen the Hyundai Kona review, the Santa Cruz offers a unique take on the compact vehicle segment.
Safety is a big deal, and the Hyundai Santa Cruz gets a 5-star safety rating. It comes with safety features like forward collision avoidance and lane departure warning. This makes it a great choice for those who want a safe drive in a compact truck.
Safety Ratings
The Hyundai Santa Cruz’s safety ratings are top-notch. This shows Hyundai’s dedication to keeping drivers and passengers safe. Its performance and features make it a strong contender in the compact truck market.
Fuel Economy Figures
Fuel economy is key, and the Hyundai Santa Cruz delivers. It can get up to 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. This makes it a good choice for those who want both capability and efficiency in a compact truck.
Warranty Coverage
The warranty coverage is impressive. It includes a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. This gives owners peace of mind. It’s worth noting in the context of a Hyundai Kona review, where durability and reliability are important.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Safety Rating | 5-Star |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | Up to 27 mpg / 33 mpg |
| Warranty Coverage | 5-year/60,000-mile basic, 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain |
In conclusion, the Hyundai Santa Cruz review data highlights its strengths. It excels in safety, efficiency, and warranty coverage. This makes it a standout in the compact truck market and a good choice for those considering the Hyundai Kona review and similar vehicles.
Real-World Driving Experience
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is made for a smooth and fun drive. It comes with heated and cooled seats and a top-notch audio system. This makes every drive feel special. It also has features like forward collision avoidance and lane departure warning for safety.
Compared to the Hyundai Kona, the Santa Cruz is more rugged and useful. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds and carry 1,609 pounds. This makes it perfect for daily use and outdoor fun. Some key features include:
- 281 horsepower at 5,800 rpm
- 311 lb-ft of torque at 1,700-4,000 rpm
- EPA fuel economy of 19 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a top pick for those wanting a versatile truck. It offers a comfy ride, premium features, and can handle various tasks. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a new vehicle.
Price Structure and Trim Levels
The Hyundai Santa Cruz starts at around $25,000, making it a good deal in the compact truck market. The price changes with the trim level, with five options in the US. The base model, SE, costs $26,650, and the top Limited trim is $41,070.
Compared to the Hyundai Kona, the Santa Cruz offers something special. It has a mix of features and capabilities at different price points. This range helps buyers find a model that fits their budget and needs.
Trim Levels and Features
The Santa Cruz comes in five trim levels: SE, SEL, Night, XRT, and Limited. Each has its own set of standard features. These include heated and cooled seats, a premium audio system, and a touchscreen display. The Limited trim has a 281-hp engine and lots of premium features.
| Trim Level | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| SE | $26,650 | Heated and cooled seats, premium audio system |
| SEL | $29,400 | Additional features, including a sunroof and navigation system |
| Night | $38,210 | Premium features, including a 281-hp engine and unique exterior design |
| XRT | $39,850 | Off-road capable features, including a lifted suspension and all-terrain tires |
| Limited | $41,070 | Premium features, including a 281-hp engine, heated and cooled seats, and a premium audio system |
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a great choice in the compact truck market. It offers a mix of style, capability, and features at a good price. It’s perfect for those looking for a compact truck.
Maintenance Requirements
Keeping the Hyundai Santa Cruz in good shape requires regular care. Owners need to change the oil and rotate the tires to prevent damage. These steps are crucial for the engine and other important parts. The Hyundai Kona maintenance tips can also apply to the Santa Cruz, thanks to their similar features.
Some key maintenance tasks for the Hyundai Santa Cruz include:
- Oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles
- Tire rotations every 6,000 to 8,000 miles
- Brake pad replacements every 30,000 to 50,000 miles
- Spark plug replacements every 30,000 to 100,000 miles
Following these maintenance schedules can help your truck last longer and save you money. The Hyundai Santa Cruz also has features that make upkeep easier. Its user-friendly infotainment system and handy storage spots are just a few examples.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Oil changes | Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles |
| Tire rotations | Every 6,000 to 8,000 miles |
| Brake pad replacements | Every 30,000 to 50,000 miles |
| Spark plug replacements | Every 30,000 to 100,000 miles |
By keeping up with these maintenance tasks, Hyundai Santa Cruz owners can enjoy a safe and reliable ride. It also helps protect their investment in the vehicle.
Competitor Analysis
The Hyundai Santa Cruz has rivals like the Ford Maverick and the Honda Ridgeline in the compact truck market. A detailed look shows these vehicles have special features that make them stand out. The Ford Maverick, for example, has a hybrid engine and can tow up to 4,000 pounds.
The Santa Cruz shares its platform with the Hyundai Tucson, but it has less cargo space. It can hold 27.0 cubic feet, while the Tucson can carry 38.7 cubic feet. The Ford Maverick, with its 54.4-inch bed and 33.3 cubic feet of space, is a big competitor.
Key Competitor Features
- Ford Maverick: hybrid powertrain, 4,000-pound towing capacity, and 37 mpg combined fuel efficiency
- Honda Ridgeline: 3.5-liter V-6 engine, 5,000-pound towing capacity, and 21 mpg combined fuel economy
- Hyundai Tucson: 2.5-liter inline-4 engine, 38.7 cubic feet of cargo space, and up to 38 mpg fuel efficiency
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is up against tough competition from the Ford Maverick and Honda Ridgeline. Yet, it has its own set of strengths. A deep dive into the Hyundai Santa Cruz competitor analysis is key to grasp its place in the market.
Target Market Appeal
The Hyundai Santa Cruz appeals to young professionals and families. It’s a compact truck that’s both functional and stylish. It’s perfect for those who need a versatile and reliable vehicle.
Its small pickup bed and comfy interior make it great for passengers and cargo. The exterior design, called a “Sport Adventure Vehicle,” attracts young buyers. They want a vehicle that’s both functional and has SUV flexibility.
Compared to others like the Ford Maverick, the Hyundai Santa Cruz stands out. It offers a unique mix of features and capabilities. The Hyundai Kona target market also finds value in its compact size and easy maneuverability, ideal for city driving.
Key features that appeal to the Hyundai Santa Cruz target market include:
- A range of powertrain options, including a base 2.5L inline-4 engine and a 2.5L turbo-4 engine
- A comfortable and spacious interior, with ample room for passengers and cargo
- A small pickup bed that is perfect for hauling small loads or equipment
- An exterior design that is both stylish and functional, with a unique “Sport Adventure Vehicle” look
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a top pick for those in the compact truck market. It’s functional and stylish, appealing to a wide range of buyers. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or an outdoor enthusiast, the Santa Cruz is a great choice.
Sales Performance Statistics
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is making a splash in the compact truck market. Its unique design and features have caught many eyes. In 2022, Hyundai sold 36,480 Santa Cruz pickups, a strong start for a new model.
The compact truck market is tough, with big names like the Ford Maverick and Chevrolet Silverado leading the way. Yet, the Santa Cruz is gaining ground.
The Santa Cruz’s market share is small, at just 1.3% of total pickup sales in America in 2022. But Hyundai is optimistic, thanks to the success of the Hyundai Kona. Here are the Santa Cruz’s sales numbers:
- 2022 sales: 36,480 units
- Market share: 1.3%
- Competitors: Ford Maverick, Chevrolet Silverado, Ram 1500
The Santa Cruz’s sales have been impacted by its towing capacity and smaller bed. But Hyundai is working to fix these issues for future models. Despite these challenges, the Santa Cruz is expected to thrive in the compact truck market.
| Model | 2022 Sales | Market Share |
|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Santa Cruz | 36,480 | 1.3% |
| Ford Maverick | 74,370 | 2.7% |
| Chevrolet Silverado | 519,229 | 19.2% |
Future Model Updates
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is set to get new features and tech soon. These changes will make it better to drive and perform. The updates will also consider the Hyundai Kona, as they share some traits.
New features include a better infotainment system and advanced safety tech. The Santa Cruz can already tow up to 5,000 lbs. Future updates will likely boost its power and towing ability.
Here are some expected updates:
- Improved infotainment system with a larger screen size
- Advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning
- Increased towing capacity and improved hauling capabilities
- New engine options, including a more powerful turbocharged engine
These changes will make the Santa Cruz more enjoyable to drive. They will also give it a more luxurious feel. The updates will help the Santa Cruz stay competitive in the growing compact truck market.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a standout compact truck. It combines functionality, style, and performance in a unique way. It may not be the biggest or strongest, but it’s got a versatile design and a comfy interior.
It also comes with advanced tech features. Starting at around $27,000 and topping out at over $41,000, it’s a great deal. It’s perfect for young professionals, active folks, and small families.
The Santa Cruz shines with its turbocharged engine. It packs 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This makes it ready for any task.
It also has good fuel economy, from 19 mpg city to 27 mpg highway. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds and carry over 1,600 pounds. This makes it handy for hauling and towing.
Even though it’s not the biggest truck, the Santa Cruz is a winner. It has a versatile design, a cozy cabin, and top-notch tech. You’ll love its user-friendly infotainment, advanced safety features, and premium Bose audio.
Looking for a compact truck for daily driving or weekend adventures? The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a great choice. It offers a modern and well-equipped ride.
