Hyundai has been making waves in the automotive industry with its innovative lineup of vehicles, and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz is no exception. This compact pickup truck offers a perfect blend of functionality, style, and performance, making it a standout option for those in the market for a versatile vehicle that can handle both city streets and off-road adventures.
Design and Features
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz features a car-like ride and handling, making it a breeze to navigate through urban environments. Its compact size makes parking a cinch, while the four-foot truck bed provides ample space for hauling bulky items. The Santa Cruz boasts a sleek and modern design that is sure to turn heads wherever you go.
In terms of performance, the Santa Cruz comes with a standard 191-hp four-cylinder engine that can be paired with front- or all-wheel drive. For those looking for more power, there is an optional 281-hp turbo four available, which not only delivers better acceleration but also increases the maximum towing capacity to 5000 pounds.
Interior and Technology
Inside the Santa Cruz, you’ll find a refined cabin that is both comfortable and stylish. The interior boasts high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout, making it a pleasant place to spend time. The Santa Cruz is the first truck in its class to offer a fully digital gauge cluster, adding a touch of modernity to the cabin.
The infotainment system in the Santa Cruz has been updated for 2025, with higher trims featuring dual 12.3-inch displays mounted together in a single panel. The system includes wireless device charging, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and Hyundai’s Blue Link services, which allow owners to remotely control various features of the vehicle.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Safety is a top priority for Hyundai, and the Santa Cruz comes equipped with a range of driver-assistance features to help keep you safe on the road. Standard features include forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
In terms of crash-test ratings, the Santa Cruz has received high marks from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), giving you peace of mind while behind the wheel.
Price and Trim Options
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz is available in three trim levels: SE, SEL, and Limited. The base SE model starts at $29,895, while the fully-loaded Limited trim tops out at $43,895. For those looking for a more rugged appearance, the XRT trim adds off-road flair with unique front-end treatment, exclusive wheels and tires, and new daytime running lights.
If you’re looking for a balance of power and affordability, the XRT trim is the one to go for. While it may come with a higher price tag compared to the base models, the turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive make it worth the investment for those who prioritize performance.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The Santa Cruz offers two powertrain options, depending on the trim level. The base SE and SEL models come with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower, while the Night, XRT, and Limited trims feature a turbocharged 2.5-liter four with 281 horsepower. The turbocharged engine provides better acceleration and is well-suited for urban driving.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Santa Cruz with the base engine and front-wheel drive is rated at 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Adding all-wheel drive reduces these figures by 1 mpg. The turbocharged version has estimates of 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, making it a competitive option in terms of fuel economy.
Conclusion
Overall, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz is a well-rounded pickup truck that offers a winning combination of style, performance, and functionality. Whether you’re hauling gear for a weekend adventure or navigating city streets on your daily commute, the Santa Cruz is up to the task. With its comfortable interior, advanced technology features, and solid safety ratings, the Santa Cruz is a standout option in the compact pickup truck segment.