2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz: A Bold New Compact Pickup

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz: A Bold Leap Forward in the Compact Pickup Segment

The Hyundai Santa Cruz has always been a vehicle that defies easy categorization. Part compact pickup, part crossover, it has carved out a unique niche in the automotive market since its introduction. As we move into 2025, Hyundai has unveiled a series of updates to the Santa Cruz, signaling a bold leap forward that aims to solidify its position in the market and appeal to a broader audience. This article delves into the specifics of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz, focusing on its performance, design, safety, technology, price, and how it stacks up against its competitors.

Performance

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz continues to offer two powertrain options, catering to a range of performance needs. The base model is equipped with a 2.5L direct-injected in-line four-cylinder engine, delivering 191 horsepower and 181 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring quick acceleration and superb efficiency. For those seeking more power, Hyundai offers a 2.5L direct-injected turbocharged engine, boasting 281 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque. This more potent engine is linked to an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT), which includes steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual shifting control[2]. Notably, the turbocharged powertrain adds a new tow mode for the 2025 model year, enhancing its utility.

Design

The 2025 Santa Cruz showcases a more aggressive front design, creating a strong, wide stance that is both visually appealing and functional. The redesigned dashboard features a panoramic curved display that seamlessly combines the driver information cluster, elevating the interior's aesthetic and usability. The exterior has been refreshed with a new front fascia, grille, and wheel designs, alongside new daytime running lights. The XRT trim, in particular, receives exclusive design elements, including a unique grille and 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, emphasizing its off-road capability.

Safety

Hyundai has made significant strides in enhancing the safety features of the 2025 Santa Cruz. The vehicle now includes a driver-attention monitor, adding an extra layer of security for drivers. The standard automatic emergency braking system with pedestrian detection has been rated as "Superior" by the IIHS, and the Santa Cruz also comes with a driver-attention monitor and a safe exit warning system. Options such as adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system are available, compensating for thick roof pillars and providing live views of the blind spots in the instrument cluster.

Technology

The 2025 model year brings an array of new infotainment and convenience technologies to Santa Cruz. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are now standard across all trim levels, and the vehicle supports over-the-air (OTA) software and firmware updates. USB-Type-C ports, Hyundai Pay in-car payment system, Digital Key 2 Touch, and a fingerprint scanner are among the notable additions. The panoramic curved display houses an optional 12.3-inch driver information cluster and an available 12.3-inch audio-video navigation system, offering a high-tech image combined with increased functionality.

Price

While Hyundai has not officially announced the pricing for the 2025 Santa Cruz, it is expected to start around the current model's $28,000 price point. The range is anticipated to span from approximately $29,000 to $43,000, depending on the trim and options selected. The XRT trim, with its more powerful turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, represents a significant value proposition for those interested in performance and off-road capability.

Competitor Analysis

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz faces stiff competition from the Ford Maverick and Honda Ridgeline, among others. However, its unique blend of crossover comfort and pickup utility, coupled with the latest updates, positions it strongly within the segment. The Santa Cruz's design, performance, and technology enhancements, particularly in the XRT trim, make it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and capable compact pickup.

In conclusion, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz represents a significant update to an already unique vehicle. With its enhanced performance, bold design, advanced safety features, cutting-edge technology, and competitive pricing, it is poised to attract a wide range of buyers. Whether for urban driving, weekend adventures, or light off-road excursions, Santa Cruz offers a compelling package that stands out in the compact pickup segment.

What are the new features of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

A: The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz comes with a range of new features that enhance its performance, design, safety, technology, and off-road capabilities. Some of the key updates include:       

1. Exterior Design: The Santa Cruz receives a bolder look with a redesigned front fascia, grille, daytime running lights, and wheel patterns. The XRT trim features a unique grille, front and rear fascia designs, front tow hooks, and 18-inch all-terrain tires. The new front fascia also delivers an increased approach angle.      

2. Interior Design: The Santa Cruz's interior has been updated with a new dash featuring a floating panel that combines 12.3-inch digital screens for the gauge cluster and infotainment hub. The center stack now includes new switchgear for the audio and climate settings, and existing controls have been redesigned for ease of use.       

3. Technology: The 2025 Santa Cruz offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as support for over-the-air updates. It also includes Hyundai's Digital Key 2 Touch system for convenience.       

4. Safety: The vehicle features a driver-attention monitor, wireless charging, and a safe exit warning system. Options such as adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system are available.     

5. Performance: The Santa Cruz's powertrains remain unchanged, with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine rated at 191 hp and a 2.5-liter turbo-4 engine rated at 281 hp. The turbocharged engine now has a tow mode for Santa Cruz pickups, enhancing its towing capabilities.       

6. Comfort and Convenience: The Santa Cruz's interior has been updated with a new steering wheel design, redesigned air vents, and a rear seat center armrest with two cupholders.       

7. Connectivity: The vehicle offers Bluelink+ Connected Car technology, which provides enhanced connectivity and convenience features.       

8. Off-Road Capability: The XRT trim has been updated with all-terrain tires, red-painted tow hooks integrated into the bumpers, and a slight increase to the approach angle.   

These updates aim to make the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz more appealing to a broader audience, offering a balance of style, performance, and value in the compact pickup segment.

What are the available trims for the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz?

A: The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz will be available in five trim levels: SE, SEL, Night, XRT, and Limited. Each trim level caters to different preferences and lifestyles, offering a range of features and abilities.     

1. SE: The base trim offers essential features without breaking the bank.     

2. SEL: Stepping up from the SE, the SEL adds extra conveniences and comfort for a more enjoyable driving experience.       

3. Night: This trim brings a touch of luxury and style with its premium features and sleek design.       

4. XRT: Designed for off-road enthusiasts, the XRT trim offers specialized features for tackling rugged terrain, including redesigned grille, front and rear bumper facias, and distinctive wheels.     

5. Limited: For those who prioritize luxury, the Limited trim delivers with its upscale amenities and advanced technology. 

The 2025 Santa Cruz will continue to offer two engine choices: a 2.5-liter inline-four with 191 horsepower and a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 281 horsepower. Both engines come with an eight-speed automatic transmission for smooth driving.

What is the starting price of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz for each trim level?

A: The starting prices for each trim level of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz are as follows:      

1. SE: $29,000     

2. SEL: $32,000

3. Night: $40,000      

4. XRT: $42,000      

5. Limited: $43,000

These prices are estimated and subject to change closer to the summer sale date, as pricing will be announced then.

When Will The 2025 Santa Cruz Be Available? 

A: The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz is expected to be available for purchase in the fall of 2024.

Sources used to collect the data for this article. 

Citations:
[1] https://www.thecarconnection.com/cars/hyundai_santa-cruz
[2] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/enhanced-hyundai-2025-santa-cruz-makes-world-debut-at-the-new-york-international-auto-show-302101013.html
[3] https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1142685_2025-hyundai-santa-cruz-revealed
[4] https://www.caranddriver.com/hyundai/santa-cruz
[5] https://www.edmunds.com/car-news/2025-hyundai-santa-cruz-first-look.html
[6] https://www.motortrend.com/news/2025-hyundai-santa-cruz-first-look-review/
[7] https://www.motor1.com/news/713950/2025-hyundai-santa-cruz-debut-details/
[8] https://www.hyundainews.com/en-us/releases/4110
[9] https://www.santacruzforums.com/threads/2025-hyundai-santa-cruz-spotted-in-the-u-s.14626/
[10] https://www.jdpower.com/cars/new-car-previews/2025-hyundai-santa-cruz-preview
[11] https://www.kbb.com/car-news/hyundai-refreshes-santa-cruz-pickup-for-2025/