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The Scoreboard
Does this improve your life? Considers, health, habits, and environmental impact.
Benefits
Trade-Offs
Smooth, car-like ride reduces fatigue on daily commutes and long trips.
Rear legroom feels tight on longer trips, leaving adults uncomfortable quickly.
Large curved displays and wireless CarPlay simplify navigation, music, and notifications.
Four-foot bed often won’t fit long items, forcing extra trips or creative loading.
Tight turning circle and unibody handling make parking and tight maneuvers easier.
Dual-clutch hesitates at low speeds, causing jerky starts in stop-and-go traffic.
Underfloor trunk, tie-downs, and organized bed keep gear secure and accessible.
Turbo engine gives lively acceleration and 5,000-pound towing for weekend gear hauls.
Benefits
Smooth, car-like ride reduces fatigue on daily commutes and long trips.
Large curved displays and wireless CarPlay simplify navigation, music, and notifications.
Tight turning circle and unibody handling make parking and tight maneuvers easier.
Underfloor trunk, tie-downs, and organized bed keep gear secure and accessible.
Turbo engine gives lively acceleration and 5,000-pound towing for weekend gear hauls.
Trade-Offs
Rear legroom feels tight on longer trips, leaving adults uncomfortable quickly.
Four-foot bed often won’t fit long items, forcing extra trips or creative loading.
Dual-clutch hesitates at low speeds, causing jerky starts in stop-and-go traffic.
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Publications
8 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
Alexander Stoklosa from MotorTrend highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a unique blend of SUV comfort and pickup utility, emphasizing that it remains more of a lifestyle vehicle than a traditional truck—and that’s largely by design. He praises the new XRT trim for addressing previous off-road shortcomings, notably through beefier all-terrain tires, improved approach angle, and added features like hill-descent control and surround-view cameras. While the XRT doesn’t fully match the off-road prowess of competitors like the Ford Maverick Tremor, it significantly enhances the Santa Cruz’s rugged appeal without sacrificing its smooth, car-like driving dynamics. Stoklosa appreciates the refined interior, crisp displays, and roomy rear seats, positioning the Santa Cruz as a more polished, cosmopolitan option in the compact pickup segment. Though the turbocharged engine’s sound and some off-road limitations temper enthusiasm, the review conveys a cautiously positive tone, recognizing the XRT’s success in “toughening up” the Santa Cruz while preserving its everyday usability and style.
Drew Dorian from Car and Driver highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a standout compact pickup that blends practical truck utility with the comfort and refinement of a crossover. Praising its manageable size, versatile four-foot bed, and strong turbocharged engine option that boosts towing capacity to 5,000 pounds, the review emphasizes the Santa Cruz’s appeal for buyers seeking a smaller, more affordable alternative to larger pickups. The refreshed styling and upgraded dual-screen infotainment system add modern flair and tech sophistication. While the base engine is noted as underpowered, the turbocharged variant delivers lively acceleration and competitive fuel economy. The cabin impresses with upscale design, digital instrumentation, and generous tech features, complemented by Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty and complimentary maintenance. The only notable drawback is a slightly higher price compared to rivals like the Ford Maverick. Overall, the Santa Cruz earns an Editors’ Choice nod for its unique blend of capability, comfort, and value in the compact truck segment.
Alexander Stoklosa from MotorTrend highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a unique blend of SUV comfort and pickup utility, emphasizing that it remains more of a lifestyle vehicle than a traditional truck—and that’s largely by design. He praises the new XRT trim for addressing previous off-road shortcomings, notably through beefier all-terrain tires, improved approach angle, and added features like hill-descent control and surround-view cameras. While the XRT doesn’t fully match the off-road prowess of competitors like the Ford Maverick Tremor, it significantly enhances the Santa Cruz’s rugged appeal without sacrificing its smooth, car-like driving dynamics. Stoklosa appreciates the refined interior, crisp displays, and roomy rear seats, positioning the Santa Cruz as a more polished, cosmopolitan option in the compact pickup segment. Though the turbocharged engine’s sound and some off-road limitations temper enthusiasm, the review conveys a cautiously positive tone, recognizing the XRT’s success in “toughening up” the Santa Cruz while preserving its everyday usability and style.
Drew Dorian from Car and Driver highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a standout compact pickup that blends practical truck utility with the comfort and refinement of a crossover. Praising its manageable size, versatile four-foot bed, and strong turbocharged engine option that boosts towing capacity to 5,000 pounds, the review emphasizes the Santa Cruz’s appeal for buyers seeking a smaller, more affordable alternative to larger pickups. The refreshed styling and upgraded dual-screen infotainment system add modern flair and tech sophistication. While the base engine is noted as underpowered, the turbocharged variant delivers lively acceleration and competitive fuel economy. The cabin impresses with upscale design, digital instrumentation, and generous tech features, complemented by Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty and complimentary maintenance. The only notable drawback is a slightly higher price compared to rivals like the Ford Maverick. Overall, the Santa Cruz earns an Editors’ Choice nod for its unique blend of capability, comfort, and value in the compact truck segment.
Alexander Stoklosa from MotorTrend highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a unique blend of SUV comfort and pickup utility, emphasizing that it remains more of a lifestyle vehicle than a traditional truck—and that’s largely by design. He praises the new XRT trim for addressing previous off-road shortcomings, notably through beefier all-terrain tires, improved approach angle, and added features like hill-descent control and surround-view cameras. While the XRT doesn’t fully match the off-road prowess of competitors like the Ford Maverick Tremor, it significantly enhances the Santa Cruz’s rugged appeal without sacrificing its smooth, car-like driving dynamics. Stoklosa appreciates the refined interior, crisp displays, and roomy rear seats, positioning the Santa Cruz as a more polished, cosmopolitan option in the compact pickup segment. Though the turbocharged engine’s sound and some off-road limitations temper enthusiasm, the review conveys a cautiously positive tone, recognizing the XRT’s success in “toughening up” the Santa Cruz while preserving its everyday usability and style.
Drew Dorian from Car and Driver highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a standout compact pickup that blends practical truck utility with the comfort and refinement of a crossover. Praising its manageable size, versatile four-foot bed, and strong turbocharged engine option that boosts towing capacity to 5,000 pounds, the review emphasizes the Santa Cruz’s appeal for buyers seeking a smaller, more affordable alternative to larger pickups. The refreshed styling and upgraded dual-screen infotainment system add modern flair and tech sophistication. While the base engine is noted as underpowered, the turbocharged variant delivers lively acceleration and competitive fuel economy. The cabin impresses with upscale design, digital instrumentation, and generous tech features, complemented by Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty and complimentary maintenance. The only notable drawback is a slightly higher price compared to rivals like the Ford Maverick. Overall, the Santa Cruz earns an Editors’ Choice nod for its unique blend of capability, comfort, and value in the compact truck segment.
Alexander Stoklosa from MotorTrend highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a unique blend of SUV comfort and pickup utility, emphasizing that it remains more of a lifestyle vehicle than a traditional truck—and that’s largely by design. He praises the new XRT trim for addressing previous off-road shortcomings, notably through beefier all-terrain tires, improved approach angle, and added features like hill-descent control and surround-view cameras. While the XRT doesn’t fully match the off-road prowess of competitors like the Ford Maverick Tremor, it significantly enhances the Santa Cruz’s rugged appeal without sacrificing its smooth, car-like driving dynamics. Stoklosa appreciates the refined interior, crisp displays, and roomy rear seats, positioning the Santa Cruz as a more polished, cosmopolitan option in the compact pickup segment. Though the turbocharged engine’s sound and some off-road limitations temper enthusiasm, the review conveys a cautiously positive tone, recognizing the XRT’s success in “toughening up” the Santa Cruz while preserving its everyday usability and style.
Drew Dorian from Car and Driver highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a standout compact pickup that blends practical truck utility with the comfort and refinement of a crossover. Praising its manageable size, versatile four-foot bed, and strong turbocharged engine option that boosts towing capacity to 5,000 pounds, the review emphasizes the Santa Cruz’s appeal for buyers seeking a smaller, more affordable alternative to larger pickups. The refreshed styling and upgraded dual-screen infotainment system add modern flair and tech sophistication. While the base engine is noted as underpowered, the turbocharged variant delivers lively acceleration and competitive fuel economy. The cabin impresses with upscale design, digital instrumentation, and generous tech features, complemented by Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty and complimentary maintenance. The only notable drawback is a slightly higher price compared to rivals like the Ford Maverick. Overall, the Santa Cruz earns an Editors’ Choice nod for its unique blend of capability, comfort, and value in the compact truck segment.
YouTube
16 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
The Fast Lane TruckRoman from The Fast Lane Truck praises the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a stylish, lifestyle-focused compact truck with clever bed storage, a refined interior, and engaging turbocharged performance. He notes its crossover-like comfort and premium features but cautions that it’s less rugged and more expensive than competitors like the Ford Maverick, making it ideal for adventure seekers rather than heavy-duty users.
MotorWeekMotor Week highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a versatile, car-like compact truck with major tech upgrades like the curved panoramic display and a practical, integrated bed. They praise its smooth ride, fuel efficiency, and towing capability, while noting some off-road tire noise and handling quirks on the XRT trim.
The Fast Lane TruckRoman from The Fast Lane Truck praises the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a stylish, lifestyle-focused compact truck with clever bed storage, a refined interior, and engaging turbocharged performance. He notes its crossover-like comfort and premium features but cautions that it’s less rugged and more expensive than competitors like the Ford Maverick, making it ideal for adventure seekers rather than heavy-duty users.
MotorWeekMotor Week highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a versatile, car-like compact truck with major tech upgrades like the curved panoramic display and a practical, integrated bed. They praise its smooth ride, fuel efficiency, and towing capability, while noting some off-road tire noise and handling quirks on the XRT trim.
The Fast Lane TruckRoman from The Fast Lane Truck praises the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a stylish, lifestyle-focused compact truck with clever bed storage, a refined interior, and engaging turbocharged performance. He notes its crossover-like comfort and premium features but cautions that it’s less rugged and more expensive than competitors like the Ford Maverick, making it ideal for adventure seekers rather than heavy-duty users.
MotorWeekMotor Week highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a versatile, car-like compact truck with major tech upgrades like the curved panoramic display and a practical, integrated bed. They praise its smooth ride, fuel efficiency, and towing capability, while noting some off-road tire noise and handling quirks on the XRT trim.
The Fast Lane TruckRoman from The Fast Lane Truck praises the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a stylish, lifestyle-focused compact truck with clever bed storage, a refined interior, and engaging turbocharged performance. He notes its crossover-like comfort and premium features but cautions that it’s less rugged and more expensive than competitors like the Ford Maverick, making it ideal for adventure seekers rather than heavy-duty users.
MotorWeekMotor Week highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a versatile, car-like compact truck with major tech upgrades like the curved panoramic display and a practical, integrated bed. They praise its smooth ride, fuel efficiency, and towing capability, while noting some off-road tire noise and handling quirks on the XRT trim.
The Fast Lane TruckRoman from The Fast Lane Truck praises the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a stylish, lifestyle-focused compact truck with clever bed storage, a refined interior, and engaging turbocharged performance. He notes its crossover-like comfort and premium features but cautions that it’s less rugged and more expensive than competitors like the Ford Maverick, making it ideal for adventure seekers rather than heavy-duty users.
MotorWeekMotor Week highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a versatile, car-like compact truck with major tech upgrades like the curved panoramic display and a practical, integrated bed. They praise its smooth ride, fuel efficiency, and towing capability, while noting some off-road tire noise and handling quirks on the XRT trim.
The Fast Lane TruckRoman from The Fast Lane Truck praises the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a stylish, lifestyle-focused compact truck with clever bed storage, a refined interior, and engaging turbocharged performance. He notes its crossover-like comfort and premium features but cautions that it’s less rugged and more expensive than competitors like the Ford Maverick, making it ideal for adventure seekers rather than heavy-duty users.
MotorWeekMotor Week highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a versatile, car-like compact truck with major tech upgrades like the curved panoramic display and a practical, integrated bed. They praise its smooth ride, fuel efficiency, and towing capability, while noting some off-road tire noise and handling quirks on the XRT trim.
The Fast Lane TruckRoman from The Fast Lane Truck praises the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a stylish, lifestyle-focused compact truck with clever bed storage, a refined interior, and engaging turbocharged performance. He notes its crossover-like comfort and premium features but cautions that it’s less rugged and more expensive than competitors like the Ford Maverick, making it ideal for adventure seekers rather than heavy-duty users.
MotorWeekMotor Week highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a versatile, car-like compact truck with major tech upgrades like the curved panoramic display and a practical, integrated bed. They praise its smooth ride, fuel efficiency, and towing capability, while noting some off-road tire noise and handling quirks on the XRT trim.
The Fast Lane TruckRoman from The Fast Lane Truck praises the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a stylish, lifestyle-focused compact truck with clever bed storage, a refined interior, and engaging turbocharged performance. He notes its crossover-like comfort and premium features but cautions that it’s less rugged and more expensive than competitors like the Ford Maverick, making it ideal for adventure seekers rather than heavy-duty users.
MotorWeekMotor Week highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz as a versatile, car-like compact truck with major tech upgrades like the curved panoramic display and a practical, integrated bed. They praise its smooth ride, fuel efficiency, and towing capability, while noting some off-road tire noise and handling quirks on the XRT trim.
Social
1 INFLUENCER REVIEW
Connie PetersConnie Peters highlights the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT’s blend of rugged capability and modern tech, praising its turbocharged 2.5L engine, 5,000-pound towing capacity, and thoughtful cargo features like tie-downs and a sub-trunk. She notes the striking Canyon Red color and spacious, well-equipped interior with dual screens and wireless CarPlay. Overall, Connie finds the Santa Cruz a solid midsize truck option with strong performance and convenience, though she points out trim and drivetrain differences between U.S. and Canadian models. She presents a balanced view, recommending the XRT trim for those seeking a capable, stylish pickup with premium touches.
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
Reddit discussions about the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz reveal a mixed but generally positive sentiment. Users appreciate the updated design, interior upgrades like physical controls and improved infotainment, and features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and enhanced safety tech. However, concerns persist regarding the dual-clutch transmission’s reliability, especially among those considering upgrades from earlier models, with some preferring the 2024 version due to better deals and fewer changes. The truck’s compact size and urban-friendly nature receive praise, though critiques focus on limited rear seat space, engine options, and a lack of hybrid powertrain, which some feel limits its appeal compared to competitors.
Many comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Turbocharged 2.5L powerLively acceleration and 5,000 lb towing
- •Dual 12.3-inch curved displaysModern, tech-forward cockpit interface
- •Integrated bed storageUnderfloor "sub-trunk" and tie-downs
- •SUV-like ride and maneuverabilitySmooth ride; tight 39.6-foot turning circle
- •XRT trim off-road enhancementsMarketed as tougher with all-terrain upgrades
- •Wireless smartphone integrationWireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Considerations
- •Dual-clutch transmission behaviorHesitates at low speeds; reliability questioned
- •Rear passenger spaceTight rear legroom for adults
- •Short bed lengthFour-foot bed limits long-item hauling
- •Higher trim pricingCosts more than some segment rivals
- •No hybrid powertrain optionLacks hybrid choice some competitors offer
- •Off-road capability limitationsXRT improved but not class-leading
Real-world impressions of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz are still trickling in, but early signals highlight a clever blend of SUV comfort and pickup utility that’s carving out its own compact niche. Designed for urban adventurers and lifestyle buyers craving versatility without bulk, it offers a choice between a zesty 281-hp turbocharged engine or an efficient base powertrain—both paired with thoughtful tech like dual 12.3-inch curved displays that bring cockpit sophistication to this small truck segment. Its manageable size and tight 39.6-foot turning circle make city driving less stressful, while innovative features such as the integrated underfloor “sub-trunk” prove cargo management doesn’t have to be clunky. Though rear seat space remains cozy and bed length modest compared to full-size rivals, the Santa Cruz compensates with smart design touches and an optional off-road-ready XRT trim that ups its adventurous cred. For those balancing daily drives with weekend escapes, this is a compact pickup aiming to impress beyond expectations—let’s see how it stacks up where it counts most.
Handling and Ride Quality
This compact pickup shines with its smooth, car-like ride that feels more SUV than truck—a blessing for urban adventurers navigating tight spots thanks to an impressively tight 39.6-foot turning circle. While experts laud its refined suspension and nimble handling for daily comfort, some users mention minor quirks like off-road tire noise on XRT trims or brake fade during steep descents. Overall, it balances agility with composure in typical city-to-adventure scenarios.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The Santa Cruz doesn’t pretend to haul semi-trailers but punches above its weight with up to 5,000-pound towing capacity on turbo AWD models—ideal for weekend gear hauls or toy trailers. Its maximum payload of around 1,411 pounds suits light-duty tasks while integrated tow mode optimizes control under load. Though this keeps it clear from traditional heavy lifters’ domain, this capability is ample for lifestyle buyers who want function without fuss.
Bed and Cargo Storage Functionality
Cleverness reigns in the bed department: beyond a modest four-foot length lies innovative features like an integrated underfloor storage compartment dubbed the 'sub-trunk,' plus multiple tie-down points securing your adventure essentials neatly out of sight yet within reach. This smart cargo management system elevates practicality despite space constraints—the kind of thoughtful design that appeals strongly where style meets utility without bulkiness overwhelming usability.
Powertrain Performance
Under the hood, the Santa Cruz offers a choice between a 191 hp base engine and a zesty 281 hp turbocharged 2.5L, catering to both efficiency lovers and thrill seekers. The turbo variant’s lively torque makes towing up to 5,000 pounds feel effortless, though some note the dual-clutch transmission can hesitate at low speeds—less slick in stop-and-go traffic than Hyundai might boast. Still, its punchy acceleration and available paddle shifters deliver engaging drives without veering into full-size truck territory.
Conclusion
Digging into its core, this compact pickup delivers a turbocharged 281-hp punch that balances spirited drives with surprising towing chops. Its SUV-like handling and smooth ride make urban jungles feel like playgrounds, while the clever underfloor bed storage transforms tight cargo space into smart utility. The XRT trim adds genuine grit but stops short of conquering serious trails—perfect for weekend adventurers who value style over rock crawling. Inside, the cabin impresses with thoughtful ergonomics and premium tech, though rear-seat legroom nudges on cozy territory. Towing up to 5,000 pounds complements light-duty hauling without tipping into full-size truck territory. While the dual-clutch transmission’s quirks invite patience, the overall package suits those craving an agile city hauler with lifestyle flair rather than rugged workhorse muscle. This is a truck that knows exactly where it belongs—and does so with confident ease wrapped in modern polish and practical charm.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Engine Power
4/5
Towing Capacity
4/5
Payload Capacity
4/5
Fuel Efficiency
3/5
Durability
3/5
Maintenance Ease
3/5
Value
Purchase Price
4/5
Total Cost of Ownership
4/5
Resale Value
3/5
Warranty Coverage
4/5
Design
Exterior Styling
4/5
Interior Comfort
4/5
Bed Utility
4/5
Visibility
4/5
Health
Interior Materials Safety
3/5
Cabin Air Quality
3/5
Noise Exposure
3/5
Safety
Crash Protection
4/5
Brake Performance
4/5
Electronic Stability Control
4/5
Driver Assistance Systems
4/5
Towing Safety Features
4/5
Sustainability
Operational Emissions
3/5
End-of-Life Recyclability
3/5
Materials Sourcing Transparency
3/5
Experience Style
Ease of Use
4/5
Customizability
4/5
Technology Integration
5/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Value
Design
Safety
Sustainability
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
10 Questions
