Hyundai Santa Cruz: Price, Specs, Towing & Review
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a compact pickup for buyers who want an open cargo bed without giving up the everyday comfort, easy handling, and interior technology of a crossover SUV.
It seats five, has a four-door crew cab, and provides a 27-cubic-foot composite cargo bed with lockable underfloor storage. The standard 191-hp engine is enough for normal driving and can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. XRT and Limited models use a 281-hp turbocharged engine, standard all-wheel drive, and can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
The Santa Cruz is a good fit for drivers who need room for bikes, tools, garden supplies, camping equipment, or weekend projects—but do not need a full-size truck bed or heavy-duty towing capacity.
WheelPedia Rating: 8.2/10
The Hyundai Santa Cruz earns an 8.2/10 WheelPedia Rating for its car-like driving manners, useful bed design, available turbocharged power, strong safety technology, and long warranty. Its main drawbacks are a short bed, limited rear-seat space, and pricing that rises quickly on upper trims.
| Rating Category | Score | Weight |
| Safety | 8.5/10 | 20% |
| Reliability and Ownership | 8.0/10 | 15% |
| Performance and Driving | 8.2/10 | 15% |
| Comfort and Practicality | 8.3/10 | 15% |
| Efficiency | 7.5/10 | 15% |
| Features and Technology | 8.5/10 | 10% |
| Price and Value | 8.5/10 | 10% |
| Overall WheelPedia Rating | 8.2/10 | — |
See how WheelPedia rates cars for the full methodology.
Key Highlights
- Starts from $29,750 MSRP in the United States, before freight, taxes, registration, options, and dealer charges.
- Five trims: SE, SEL, SEL Activity, XRT, and Limited.
- Standard 2.5-liter engine makes 191 hp.
- XRT and Limited models use a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with 281 hp.
- Front-wheel drive is standard on lower trims; all-wheel drive is available or standard, depending on trim.
- Tows up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- Composite bed provides 27.0 cubic feet of cargo volume.
- Bed is 52.1 inches long and includes available lockable under-bed storage.
- Best fuel economy is up to an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined.
- Best for active buyers who want pickup utility in an easier-to-live-with size.
Quick Specifications
| Specification | Hyundai Santa Cruz |
| Vehicle type | Compact unibody pickup truck |
| Seating capacity | 5 |
| Standard engine | 2.5L four-cylinder |
| Standard output | 191 hp / 181 lb-ft |
| Turbo engine | 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder |
| Turbo output | 281 hp / 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD standard on selected trims; AWD available or standard |
| Maximum towing | Up to 5,000 lbs. |
| Bed volume | 27.0 cu. ft. |
| Bed length | 52.1 in. |
| Length | 195.7–195.9 in. |
| Width | 75.0 in. |
| Wheelbase | 118.3 in. |
Expert Tip: The SEL Activity is the best choice for most buyers. It keeps the standard engine’s lower running costs while adding useful bed equipment and everyday comfort features. Choose the XRT if you want the turbo engine, standard all-wheel drive, and stronger towing capability.
About the Hyundai Santa Cruz
The Santa Cruz sits between a compact SUV and a traditional pickup truck. It uses a unibody structure rather than a body-on-frame truck platform, which helps it feel more stable, comfortable, and manageable than many larger pickups.
Its main advantage is versatility. The open bed makes it easier to carry messy, tall, or awkward items that would be inconvenient inside an SUV. At the same time, it remains short enough for city parking, daily commuting, and narrow roads.
The trade-off is straightforward: it is not a replacement for a midsize or full-size truck. Buyers who routinely haul very heavy payloads, tow large campers, or need a longer bed should consider a more conventional truck.
Price and Trims
These are 2026 starting MSRPs before freight, taxes, registration, accessories, and dealer charges.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Engine / Drivetrain | Best For |
| SE | $29,750 | 191-hp 2.5L / FWD | Buyers seeking the lowest entry price |
| SEL | $31,400 | 191-hp 2.5L / FWD | Everyday comfort and value |
| SEL Activity | $34,450 | 191-hp 2.5L / FWD | Buyers wanting more utility-focused equipment |
| XRT | $41,350 | 281-hp turbo / AWD | Outdoor use, towing, and stronger performance |
| Limited | $43,700 | 281-hp turbo / AWD | Buyers wanting the most features |
For current pricing, specifications, and local availability, see the official Hyundai Santa Cruz page.
Which Hyundai Santa Cruz Trim Is Best?
- Best overall: SEL Activity
- Best low-price choice: SE
- Best for towing and outdoor use: XRT
- Best for comfort and technology: Limited
The SE works for buyers who simply need a compact pickup with modern safety equipment and an open bed. The SEL is a better daily driver because it adds useful convenience features.
The SEL Activity is the trim most buyers should target. It adds practical upgrades such as bed-focused equipment, while staying well below the turbocharged models.
Choose the XRT if you want standard all-wheel drive, the 281-hp turbo engine, more aggressive styling, and Terrain Mode settings for snow, mud, and sand. The Limited is the luxury-focused version, with more premium cabin features, but its price puts it close to larger and more capable trucks.
Engine, Power, and Towing
SE, SEL, and SEL Activity trims use a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. It is adequate for commuting, errands, and light-duty use, but it can feel relaxed when fully loaded or during highway passing.
XRT and Limited trims use a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. These trims have standard HTRAC all-wheel drive and are much better suited to towing, mountain roads, and buyers who want stronger acceleration.
Every 2026 Santa Cruz uses an eight-speed automatic transmission. Hyundai replaced the turbo model’s former dual-clutch transmission with a conventional automatic for 2026.
| Configuration | Maximum Towing Capacity* |
| 2.5L standard engine | Up to 3,500 lbs. |
| 2.5L turbocharged engine | Up to 5,000 lbs. |
*When properly equipped with trailer brakes. Towing capacity varies by configuration, equipment, passengers, cargo, and trailer setup.
Driving Experience
The Santa Cruz drives more like a compact SUV than a traditional pickup. Its steering is light, body control is good, and the relatively compact dimensions make it easy to park.
The standard engine is best for drivers who value lower purchase costs and normal everyday use. The turbo engine changes the character of the truck. It provides much stronger passing power and makes the Santa Cruz feel more confident with passengers, cargo, or a trailer.
The XRT is not a hardcore off-road truck, but its standard all-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, and Terrain Mode settings give it more confidence on unpaved roads and poor-weather routes than the lower trims.
Fuel Economy
| Configuration | EPA-Estimated City/Highway/Combined MPG |
| 2.5L FWD | 22 / 30 / 25 mpg |
| 2.5L AWD | 21 / 29 / 24 mpg |
| XRT AWD | 18 / 25 / 20 mpg |
| Limited AWD | 18 / 25 / 20 mpg |
The front-wheel-drive standard-engine models are the most efficient versions. Turbocharged XRT and Limited trims use more fuel, but that is the cost of their added power, all-wheel drive, and stronger towing capability.
Real-world fuel economy will vary with payload, trailer weight, terrain, tire choice, traffic, weather, and driving style.
Bed, Cargo, and Practicality
The Santa Cruz’s bed is its biggest advantage over a compact SUV.
| Bed Measurement | Measurement |
| Bed volume | 27.0 cu. ft. |
| Bed length | 52.1 in. |
| Maximum bed width | 53.9 in. |
| Width between wheelwells | 42.7 in. |
| Bed depth | 19.2 in. |
The bed is large enough for home-improvement supplies, bicycles, camping gear, bags of mulch, coolers, and many everyday bulky items. Its lockable under-bed storage has a drain plug, allowing it to also work as a cooler.
The shorter bed is the main compromise. It is useful, but it will not handle long construction materials or large equipment as easily as a midsize truck with a five- or six-foot bed.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The Santa Cruz has a modern cabin that feels closer to a crossover SUV than a work truck. The front seats are comfortable, and the dashboard is easy to use.
Standard and available equipment includes:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth and USB charging
- Available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Hyundai Digital Key on selected trims
- Bluelink connected-car services
- Available wireless device charging
- Available Bose premium audio system
- Available heated and ventilated front seats
- Available heated steering wheel
- Available sunroof
- Available surround-view camera system
Front-seat space is good. The rear seat is usable for adults on shorter trips, but it is less roomy than the rear seat in many midsize pickups and family SUVs.
Exterior Design
The Hyundai Santa Cruz has a more modern and lifestyle-focused design than a conventional pickup. Its integrated front lighting, sculpted body panels, and short bed give it a distinct look.
SE, SEL, and SEL Activity trims have a cleaner crossover-like appearance. The XRT adds darker exterior trim, a more rugged grille, unique wheels, and a more aggressive visual style. The Limited is the more upscale version, with added exterior details and premium features.
Safety Features and Ratings
The Santa Cruz includes Hyundai SmartSense driver-assistance technology. Standard and available features include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- High Beam Assist
- Rear Occupant Alert
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Safe Exit Warning
- Smart Cruise Control on selected trims
- Parking Distance Warning
- Available surround-view monitor
The Hyundai Santa Cruz received IIHS Top Safety Pick recognition. Its current IIHS results include Good small-overlap front and updated side-impact ratings, while the 2026 updated moderate-overlap front test result is Acceptable. The pedestrian front crash-prevention system is rated Acceptable. Review the full IIHS Santa Cruz safety results for test details and trim applicability.
Always check the current NHTSA safety record and the exact VIN for open recalls before purchase.
Reliability, Warranty, and Ownership
The Santa Cruz has Hyundai’s long standard warranty coverage, which is a meaningful advantage against many pickup rivals.
| Coverage | Length |
| New vehicle limited warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Powertrain limited warranty | 10 years / 100,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance | 5 years / unlimited miles |
| Anti-perforation warranty | 7 years / unlimited miles |
Ownership costs will depend heavily on the trim. The standard-engine versions should be less expensive to fuel and maintain. XRT and Limited models have more power and equipment, but their tires, insurance, fuel use, and purchase price will be higher.
Follow Hyundai’s maintenance schedule, keep service records, and check for VIN-specific recall work before buying new or used.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Easier to drive and park than larger pickups
- Useful open cargo bed with under-bed storage
- Available turbocharged engine is genuinely strong
- Up to 5,000 pounds of towing capability
- Available all-wheel drive
- Good standard technology and safety features
- Modern crossover-like interior
- Long powertrain warranty
- XRT adds useful outdoor-focused equipment
What We Don’t Like
- Bed is short compared with traditional pickups
- Rear-seat room is limited for adults
- Turbo models are expensive
- Turbo trims return only 20 mpg combined
- Not designed for serious off-road use
- Lower trims can feel slow when loaded
- Payload and towing capacity do not match larger trucks
Competitors
The Hyundai Santa Cruz competes most directly with the Ford Maverick, Honda Ridgeline, and compact or midsize pickups such as the Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado.
The Ford Maverick is worth considering if you want a lower entry price, a hybrid option, or a more traditional truck-focused layout. The Honda Ridgeline is a better fit for buyers who need more passenger space, a wider bed, and greater towing confidence.
The Santa Cruz makes the most sense for buyers who want a compact, comfortable daily driver with enough truck utility for active weekends and occasional hauling.
Related WheelPedia Content
Before financing a Santa Cruz, read how car financing works and consider arranging a car loan preapproval before visiting a dealership.
If you are deciding whether a newer vehicle is worth the added cost, read our new vs. used car guide. Used-truck shoppers should also learn how to check a car’s accident history before making an offer.
Should You Buy the Hyundai Santa Cruz?
Buy the Hyundai Santa Cruz if you want crossover comfort, an open bed for occasional hauling, strong available technology, and a truck that is easy to live with every day.
Choose the SE if you want the lowest price. Choose the SEL Activity if you want the best blend of comfort, bed utility, and value. Choose the XRT if you need the turbo engine, standard all-wheel drive, and stronger towing capability. Choose the Limited if you want the most premium equipment.
Skip the Santa Cruz if you need a long bed, heavy-duty towing, maximum rear-seat space, or real off-road hardware.
Hyundai Santa Cruz FAQs
How much does the Hyundai Santa Cruz cost?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz starts at $29,750 MSRP in the United States, before freight, taxes, registration, options, and dealer charges.
How much can the Hyundai Santa Cruz tow?
The Santa Cruz can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with the turbocharged engine and trailer brakes. Standard-engine models can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
How long is the Hyundai Santa Cruz bed?
The Santa Cruz bed is 52.1 inches long and has 27.0 cubic feet of cargo volume.
Does the Hyundai Santa Cruz have all-wheel drive?
Yes. All-wheel drive is available on SE, SEL, and SEL Activity trims. It is standard on XRT and Limited models.
How much horsepower does the Hyundai Santa Cruz have?
SE, SEL, and SEL Activity models make 191 horsepower. XRT and Limited models use a turbocharged engine producing 281 horsepower.
Is the Hyundai Santa Cruz a real truck?
Yes, it has an open pickup bed and useful towing capability. However, it uses a unibody structure and is designed more for daily comfort and lifestyle use than heavy-duty work.
What mpg does the Hyundai Santa Cruz get?
The most efficient front-wheel-drive Santa Cruz models return up to an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined. XRT and Limited AWD trims are rated at 20 mpg combined.
Does the Hyundai Santa Cruz have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available across the Santa Cruz lineup.
Is the Hyundai Santa Cruz good for towing?
It is good for light and moderate towing. Turbocharged models can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, which is enough for many small campers, utility trailers, and recreational equipment.
Is the Hyundai Santa Cruz safe?
It includes a wide range of driver-assistance features and received IIHS Top Safety Pick recognition. Check the exact trim, build date, safety ratings, and VIN-specific recall record before buying.
Final Verdict
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is one of the most practical choices for buyers who want a compact truck without the size, ride quality, or day-to-day hassle of a traditional pickup.
It is not built for heavy commercial use, but it handles most lifestyle needs well. The bed is useful, the turbo engine is strong, and the cabin is far more comfortable and technology-focused than many buyers expect from a pickup.
For most buyers, the SEL Activity is the version to choose. It offers the best balance of price, features, and everyday utility. The XRT is the better choice if towing power, all-wheel drive, and outdoor use are priorities.