The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a unique and innovative pickup truck that combines the best features of a compact crossover with the utility of a pickup. Unlike many people who desire a full-size truck, the Santa Cruz offers a more suitable and affordable solution for those who don’t need the immense capabilities of a larger truck.
The design and interior of the Santa Cruz are similar to that of the Hyundai Tucson, making it a familiar and stylish choice for those who love the triangular Tucson. Additionally, the Santa Cruz features impressive LED headlights, setting it apart from other pickup trucks in terms of style.
There are two engine options available for the Santa Cruz. The base engine is a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-4, which some consider to be underpowered. However, the higher-level 2.5-liter turbo engine provides much more usable power and is better suited for the Santa Cruz. Paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, this combination offers quick and smooth shifts, making it ideal for carrying or towing loads of up to 5,000 pounds.
A notable absence in the Santa Cruz lineup is the hybrid option. While Hyundai offers hybrid powertrains for the Tucson, there is currently no hybrid variant available for the Santa Cruz. This may be due to the low demand for hybrids in the pickup truck market. However, it’s worth mentioning that the Ford Maverick, a similar-sized truck, has had high demand for its hybrid engine option.
In terms of capability, the Santa Cruz can handle a variety of tasks. While it may not be as rugged as a traditional body-on-frame truck, it can still carry up to 1,411 pounds of cargo and tow up to 5,000 pounds. The truck also offers a sliding cover for the bed, making it easier to protect and transport items.
When it comes to off-road performance, the Santa Cruz has some limitations. While it has 8.6 inches of ground clearance, it doesn’t offer all-terrain tires or adaptive off-road driving modes. The mid-level XRT version may look tough, but it lacks significant off-road capabilities. For serious off-roading, additional modifications may be necessary from a customizer.
The price of the Santa Cruz starts at $27,985 for the base model, with an additional cost for all-wheel drive. The turbo engine is available at a higher price, starting from $39,545. The most expensive trim, the Santa Cruz Limited, is priced at $42,405.
In terms of competition, the Ford Maverick is the Santa Cruz’s main rival. The Maverick offers a lower starting price and a hybrid engine option, although it lacks some of the high-end features and technologies found in the Santa Cruz. However, even fully equipped, the Maverick is still much cheaper than the high-end Santa Cruz models.
Overall, the Hyundai Santa Cruz offers an attractive option for those in need of a more compact and affordable pickup truck. With its enjoyable driving experience, functional design, and competitive prices, the Santa Cruz is an excellent choice to meet the needs of those who want a smaller pickup truck.
Sources:
– Motor Trend: https://www.motortrend.com/cars/hyundai/santa-cruz/2022/2022-hyundai-santa-cruz-first-drive-review/