Full-size pickup trucks are the bestsellers in the U.S., but many shoppers don’t need their immense capability or want to deal with their lower fuel efficiency. Hyundai saw an opportunity here and filled the gap with the compact Santa Cruz, which blends the comfort and capability of a compact SUV with the utility of an open cargo bed.
The Santa Cruz, along with the Ford Maverick, has reignited interest in smaller trucks. While they can’t tow or haul as much as full-size models, small pickups offer significant benefits:
– Easier to maneuver
– More fuel-efficient
– More fun to drive
– Less expensive
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a choice of two engines, front- or all-wheel drive, and various trim levels, making it versatile enough to serve as a budget-friendly pickup or a loaded lifestyle vehicle.
For those seeking something between a compact and a full-size truck, the Honda Ridgeline is a solid midsize alternative.
**Positives:
– Potent turbocharged engine
– Clever pickup bed features
– Comfortable and confident ride
**Considerations:
– Compromised rear-passenger comfort
– Small utility bed
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz combines the best attributes of a compact SUV with the utility of a pickup. While it’s not as capable as a full-size truck, it provides an excellent combination of comfort and capability for those who only need occasional utility.
What’s New for 2024
– SEL Premium trim dropped
– New XRT model with more features
– Larger infotainment touchscreen and dual-zone climate control available
– Upgraded LED headlights on all models
– Haptic feedback for some safety features
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz is available in five trim levels: SE, SEL, Night, XRT, and Limited. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are offered on SE and SEL trims, while the Night, SEL Premium, and Limited trims are all-wheel drive only. The SEL trim is the most popular and recommended for its value.
**SE ($27,985)**: Multifunctional tailgate, composite bed, lockable under-bed storage, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, 8-inch touchscreen, cloth upholstery, and remote keyless entry. AWD adds $1,500.
**SEL ($30,735)**: Heated mirrors, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, SiriusXM, and Blue Link connectivity. Optional lockable truck-bed tonneau.
**Night ($39,545)**: Turbocharged engine, AWD, dark-toned 20-inch wheels, dark trim, skid plates, and side steps.
**XRT ($41,185)**: Features from SEL with Activity package (roof rails, sunroof, sliding rear window, power outlet in truck bed, utility cargo cleats and tracks, LED bed lighting, 10.25-inch touchscreen, digital instrument panel, and wireless charging pad), turbocharged engine, AWD, adaptive cruise control, wider fender flares, and digital key features.
**Limited ($42,405)**: Leather-trimmed seats, ventilated front seats, 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, Bose audio system, and dual USB outlets in the backseat. AWD only.
The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, available on higher trims, generates 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. The turbo engine provides strong acceleration and excellent handling, making the Santa Cruz fun to drive.
– **Turbocharged engine with AWD**: Tows up to 5,000 pounds
– **Standard engine**: Tows up to 3,500 pounds with FWD or AWD
– **Maximum payload for SE**: 1,753 pounds
– **FWD Limited payload**: 1,521 pounds
– **Standard engine (FWD)**: 22/26 mpg city/highway
– **Standard engine (AWD)**: 21/26 mpg city/highway
– **Turbo engine**: 19/27 mpg city/highway
The Santa Cruz offers nearly identical passenger volume to the Ford Maverick. It features flip-up 60/40-split rear seats for additional storage and a lockable under-bed storage area. The truck bed, while smaller than the Maverick’s, provides versatile utility.
Standard 8-inch touchscreen on SE and SEL trims. A 10.25-inch touchscreen is included with the SEL’s optional Activity package and is standard on higher trims. Features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Bose audio system on Limited trims, and dual USB ports.
The 2024 Santa Cruz is equipped with standard safety features like forward-collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, rear occupant alert, and driver attention warning. Uplevel models offer blind-spot collision avoidance, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance, and safe exit warning. New haptic feedback enhances safety alerts.
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick both blaze the trail for modern small pickups. While the Maverick leans towards utility and efficiency, the Santa Cruz offers a fun driving experience and excellent interior quality, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and comfortable compact pickup.
