Hyundai Santa Cruz

Name: Hyundai Santa Cruz
Brand: Hyundai
SKU: Hyundai Santa Cruz

All Hyundai Vehicles

Latest Model

Model Generations

News

Shop Local

Latest Model

2022 Model Redesign Year

The Santa Cruz combines the attributes of a small SUV and a pickup truck into one vehicle. Similar in concept to the Ford Maverick, the Tucson-based Santa Cruz could be perfect for the buyer who wants a car-like ride, handling, and maneuverability, but occasionally needs an open bed to avoid getting their vehicle's interior dirty. Clever storage features abound in the bed, including tie-down systems, an available retractable tonneau cover, and a modest under-bed storage bin. Buyers can choose between two engines: a 191-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder with either front- or all-wheel drive, and a 281-hp, turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with all-wheel drive. For 2026, both engines come with an eight-speed automatic transmission. We found the base non-turbo engine to be noisy and underpowered, and it struggles to accelerate at highway speeds.

The turbo engine is a much better match for this pickup, offering acceleration more in line with the Santa Cruz's peers. 2026 is the final year for the Santa Cruz.

Notable Changes

Join Consumer Reports to view notable changes for this model year.

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz

CR MPG

Road Test Score

Predicted Reliability

Predicted Owner Satisfaction

Base MSRP Range

$29,750 - $43,700

Destination Charge: $1600

View Model Ratings

Base MSRP Range

$29,750 - $43,700

Destination Charge: $1600

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz

CR MPG

Notable Changes

Join Consumer Reports to view notable changes for this model year.

Road Test Score

Predicted Reliability

Predicted Owner Satisfaction

View Model Ratings

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz

Road Test Score

/ 100

Predicted Reliability

/ 100

Predicted Owner Satisfaction

/ 100

Notable Changes

Join Consumer Reports to view notable changes for this model year.

Join for Ratings & Reviews

2022-Present

2022 Model Redesign Year

Based on the Tucson, the Santa Cruz melds a small SUV and pickup truck into one vehicle. It is similar in concept to the Honda Ridgeline, albeit smaller. The base engine is a rather strained 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Uplevel models come with a powerful turbo engine, making this trucklet quick. Front- or all-wheel drive versions are available. The Santa Cruz drives like a car with responsive handling, comfortable ride and easy maneuverability.

But rear visibility is hampered due to the small rear window and thick rear pillar. Maximum tow capacity is 5,000 lbs. The short 52-inch bed has a handy hidden trunk and turbo versions come with a built-in lockable tonneau cover. FCW and AEB with pedestrian detection are standard. BSW and RCTW became standard beginning with the 2023 model year. The Santa Cruz received a refresh for 2025 that includes new front and rear bumpers, along with an updated interior that includes a standard 12.3-inch display. For 2026 the 8-speed automatic became the standard transmission. The 8-speed dual clutch was dropped.