The first image that comes to mind when we think of a pickup truck is a massive vehicle towing a trailer several dozen feet long. In reality, unless you're a construction contractor or own a camper, it's unlikely you'll need such a vehicle. However, this doesn't mean you can't own a pickup truck, and that's where a vehicle like the Hyundai Santa Cruz becomes particularly interesting.
To be honest, in many ways, the Hyundai Santa Cruz is essentially an SUV with its rear trunk replaced by a cargo bed. However, this is precisely what makes it such a versatile vehicle, as it allows you to transport larger items. Not to mention its towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, more than double what a similarly sized SUV can handle. You could say the Hyundai Santa Cruz is a highly appealing vehicle for people who enjoy activities and occasionally need a utility vehicle to transport equipment.
In fact, the Korean automaker's truck has much more to offer, as it's also very enjoyable to drive and packed with cutting-edge technology. For 2025, the Santa Cruz has received a complete overhaul of its infotainment system. However, the most exciting update, in my opinion, is the addition of the XRT version. This trim offers equipment that enhances the model's off-road capabilities as well as its appearance.
Lineup and Pricing
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz lineup consists of three trims, starting with the Preferred model, which serves as the entry-level version. Its base price is $44,671, including transportation and preparation fees, which might not fit every budget. Nonetheless, it's worth noting that you get an exceptionally comprehensive set of standard features for this price, including 18-inch wheels, a 12.3-inch multimedia system screen, and LED headlights—features for which you'd typically pay extra elsewhere.
For $50,171, the XRT version is available, featuring a more rugged look, a power sunroof, and several high-tech options, such as a 360-degree camera system. Finally, the Ultimate trim sits at the top of the lineup at $53,171, likely offering the best value for your money.
Segment and Competition
Officially, the Hyundai Santa Cruz has only two main rivals: the Ford Maverick and the Honda Ridgeline. However, I believe the Korean automaker's truck is capable of competing in multiple segments simultaneously. It can easily stand up to mid-size pickups on many levels and can certainly replace most compact and mid-size SUVs on the market.
Rivals: Ford Maverick, Honda Ridgeline
Design and Technology
The design of the Hyundai Santa Cruz leaves no one indifferent. The only question is whether you like it or not. It's a bold vehicle; everyone can agree on that. However, its proportions appear somewhat odd from certain angles, which might bother some. Personally, I think its design is a success. Hyundai showed great creativity with the Santa Cruz.
Its cabin is more uniform compared to other models from the brand. The dashboard is typically Hyundai—modern, elegant, and full of eye-catching details and advanced technologies. The Santa Cruz also offers a generous interior space, and the seats are very comfortable across the lineup. I particularly like the feel of the steering wheel.
Performance
Once again this year, the Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a single mechanical option: a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, far exceeding what the competition offers. In fact, the Santa Cruz enters mid-size truck territory with this engine under the hood. As for fuel efficiency, Hyundai claims an average of 12.4 L/100 km in the city and 8.5 L/100 km on the highway.
Weak Points
It turns heads, but not always for the right reasons. Its cargo bed is too short.
Strong Points
The Santa Cruz is eye-catching, versatile, and packed with advanced technologies. It's enjoyable to drive and offers excellent value for money.
Signature Element
The Santa Cruz is not the first vehicle of its kind in automotive history, but it's undoubtedly the one that will define its generation.
Final Word
Hyundai often presents us with bold concepts we dream of seeing on the market. Rarely, this dream becomes reality, as it did with the Santa Cruz. This is what makes the model so fascinating. The final product stayed very close to the original concept, and for that, we can only thank Hyundai.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
