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2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz blends pickup utility with SUV comfort, making it a bold choice for drivers who want versatility without sacrificing style.
Overview
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz offers two strong engines, modern tech, and a flexible bed design, perfect for adventurous drivers seeking a practical yet stylish ride.
Carsforsale.com Score
8.75/10
Powertrain
Score
9/10
Interior
Score
8.5/10
Technology
Score
8.75/10
Value
Score
8.5/10
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Powertrain 9/10
The Hyundai Santa Cruz gives drivers two engine options to suit their needs. The standard 2.5L four-cylinder delivers 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s a practical choice for everyday driving, offering an estimated 22 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway.
For those craving more capability, the available 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder steps up with 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This upgrade not only makes passing and towing easier but also unlocks a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds—impressive for a compact truck, but best for lighter towing tasks.
Both engines offer available all-wheel drive, giving the Santa Cruz confidence for light off-road adventures. Ride quality leans toward SUV-like comfort, making it a great fit for drivers who want versatility without sacrificing refinement.
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Interior 8.5/10
The cabin feels upscale for the segment, with quality materials and a modern design. Seating for five is comfortable, and the front seats offer good support for long drives. Rear legroom is adequate for adults, though not class-leading. Cargo flexibility shines thanks to the 4-foot bed and underfloor storage. Interior storage is practical, and higher trims add leather seating and heated/ventilated front seats.
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Technology 8.75/10
Innovation is front and center in the Hyundai Santa Cruz, delivering tech that keeps you connected and in control. A standard 12.3-inch display dominates the dashboard with vibrant visuals and an easy-to-use interface, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensure effortless smartphone integration. Higher trims swap in a 10.25-inch screen with even sharper graphics and streamlined menus for a polished experience.
For those who appreciate premium amenities, available upgrades include a Bose audio system that fills the cabin with rich, detailed sound, wireless charging to keep your devices ready, and a Wi-Fi hotspot for seamless connectivity on the go. Safety features are equally robust, with lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control offered across the lineup—helping make every journey safer and more stress-free.
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Value 8.5/10
The Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a trim lineup designed to fit different budgets and priorities. Starting at $29,500, the SE trim delivers everyday essentials like a 12.3-inch touchscreen, seamless smartphone integration, and key safety features—ideal for drivers who want value without sacrificing convenience.
For those looking for extra capability, the SEL Activity trim begins at $34,200 and adds all-wheel drive, a larger display, heated seats, and advanced driver-assistance tech, making it a smart pick for active lifestyles.
At the top of the range, the Limited trim starts at $43,450 and elevates the experience with leather-appointed seating, a premium Bose audio system, and Hyundai’s full technology suite—perfect for those who want a touch of luxury in a compact truck.
Every Santa Cruz comes with Hyundai’s industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, delivering peace of mind for the long haul. Against competitors like the Ford Maverick, the Santa Cruz shines with its upscale interior and impressive towing capability.
Trims & Pricing
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Final Score 8.75/10
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz is a standout in the compact truck segment, offering SUV-like comfort, solid towing, and a tech-forward cabin. It’s ideal for drivers who want utility without buying a mid-size pickup.
