One of the newest models on the market, a used Hyundai Santa Cruz is a great option for those who want a compact truck, but don't want something that looks rugged. We'll go over the changes that this model has seen in its short life so you know how it stacks up to other compact trucks on the market.
Key takeaways
- If you're a handyman wanting something that can get most work done around the house, then you'll want the turbo version of this engine as it comes with the best tow rating at 5,000-pounds.
- The 2025 facelift brought some of the best features to the lineup so far, bringing it to the modern era with two new screens.
- If you're wanting to go off-roading, then we recommend the most recent XRT build as it comes with things that help you conquer the trails.
First Generation (2022-Present)
The Santa Cruz has only been on the market for a short time, but in that time period, it has already made some waves. Being that this is a truck, we'll cover the engines, and towing capacity first. The first engine that we'll look at is the 2.5L I4, making 191 horsepower, and 181 lb-ft of torque. This engine comes with a max tow rating of 3,500-pounds. While this is capable, it still comes with an EPA rating of 23 MPG combined.
If you're wanting the best performance, then you'll want the turbo version of the 2.5L I4. This version comes with 281 horsepower, and 311 lb-ft of torque. This unlocks the best tow rating of 5,000-pounds. This doesn't fall far behind in terms of fuel economy either as it comes with an EPA rated 22 MPG combined.
Now that we've covered the engines, we can cover some features that you can expect from this lineup. Coming with a handful of trims, there's two screens that this model can be equipped with. The standard one is an 8-inch screen, while the larger optional one is 10.3-inches.
Car and Driver notes that the Santa Cruz has "one of the nicest cabins among mid-size pickups". Some of the features that give it this title is that it is the first truck in its class to offer a fully digital gauge cluster. This also comes with attractive materials, making it looking the best in the segment.
Starting in 2024, the model saw a new trim join the lineup. This is the XRT, and it comes with some of the best features available. Some of the creature comforts that this trim comes with are leather-wrapped steering wheel, black faux-leather upholstery, adaptive cruise control, and Hyundai's Digital Key. This trim also comes with wider fender flares, side steps, and bed rails, giving it a more rugged look.
To help make this model safer, it now comes with haptic feedback through the steering wheel for lane keep assist and blind spot collision avoidance. Most trims beside the SE now come with dual-zone climate control and an automatic defogger.
Starting in 2025, the model saw a facelift. While it is a bit newer, that doesn't mean that it can't be upgraded. While the XRT was introduced in the year prior, this year saw it get even better. Coming with some new off-road features such as tow-hooks, exclusive 18-inch wheels and meatier tires, and new daytime running lights.
This year also sees the addition of two 12.3-inch displays, housing everything from the gauges, as well as the updated software interface that features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but this is reserved for higher-end trims. If you find yourself looking at a lower-end trim, then you will find that it comes with one 12.3-inch screen, but opts for analog gauges to keep the price low.
Is a used Hyundai Santa Cruz truck a safe buy?
In short, yes. The Santa Cruz is among the best, if not the best truck in the segment, coming with a 9/10 rating from Car and Driver. If you want to get behind the wheel of one of one, then come on down to a Jarrett location. We have the best inventory around, and being that this model is newer, you're bound to find one with exactly what you're looking for!