The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz flawlessly blends the functionality of a pickup with the comfortable drive of a crossover, establishing itself at the crossroads of sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks. With its open cargo area and seating for five occupants, it competes with compact pickups like the Ford Maverick and adventure-focused crossovers such as the Subaru Outback.
Sharing its foundation with the Hyundai Tucson compact crossover, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz boasts a front-end design reminiscent of an off-road-capable crossover and a square-box pickup look at the rear. The sleek profile is enhanced with stylish black cladding, flowing across the sides and paired with optional 20-inch wheels. The cargo bed features a built-in lockable tonneau cover, concealed storage with a drain plug, and additional bed-extending add-ons.
The standard 2.5-liter inline-4 engine delivers 191 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque, while the optional 2.5-liter turbo-4 with standard all-wheel drive offers a more robust performance, producing 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with an all-wheel-drive system featuring a central locking differential for enhanced traction on inclines or in slippery conditions, the Santa Cruz provides a tranquil and comfortable ride suitable for daily commutes, akin to that of a compact crossover.
Achieving an EPA-rated fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city, 27 on the highway, and 23 combined with all-wheel drive and the standard 191-hp 2.5-liter inline-4, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz prioritizes safety by integrating standard driver-assist technologies, such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and active lane-keeping.
Pricing starts at $26,650 for the base SE model of the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz, which features 18-inch alloy wheels, an 8.0-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a remote-operated power tailgate. The range includes three SEL trims and the premium Limited variant, which peaks at $41,070 with the turbo-4 engine and all-wheel drive.
As Hyundai’s first foray into the pickup truck segment, the 2024 Santa Cruz captivates with its daring design, responsive handling, and advanced technology. Leading its class, the Santa Cruz surpasses its price range, emerging as an enticing choice for individuals looking for a fusion of flexibility and sophistication.
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