What car makes Santa Cruz?

[Amanda]

The Santa Cruz is exclusively made by Hyundai. As a compact pickup truck, it bridges the gap between an SUV and a traditional truck. For the 2026 model year, Hyundai offers the Santa Cruz in five distinct trim levels: SE, SEL, SEL Activity, XRT, and Limited. The core powertrain for SE, SEL, and SEL Activity trims is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with front-wheel drive.

Higher trims, specifically the XRT and Limited, feature a more powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a significant boost to 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. All turbo models come standard with Hyundai's HTRAC all-wheel-drive system, which includes a terrain mode selector for enhanced capability.

The progression from base to top trim reflects a clear focus on added features, technology, and rugged or luxury aesthetics. The SE serves as the entry point with essential utility, while the Limited offers premium cabin materials and advanced driver-assistance systems. The XRT trim is positioned as the off-road-oriented variant, adding unique styling cues and functional upgrades.

A key differentiator in the small truck segment is the Santa Cruz's unibody construction, which it shares with the Hyundai Tucson SUV. This design prioritizes on-road comfort and handling that feels more like a crossover, while still offering practical truck utility with its standard composite bed and available locking tonneau cover.

Trim Level	Engine	Horsepower / Torque	Standard Drivetrain	Key Positioning
SE	2.5L Inline-4	191 hp / 181 lb-ft	Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)	Value-oriented base model
SEL	2.5L Inline-4	191 hp / 181 lb-ft	FWD	Popular mid-tier, adds comfort features
SEL Activity	2.5L Inline-4	191 hp / 181 lb-ft	FWD	Focus on lifestyle with standard bed accessories
XRT	2.5L Turbo GDI	281 hp / 311 lb-ft	HTRAC AWD	Rugged, off-road styled appearance package
Limited	2.5L Turbo GDI	281 hp / 311 lb-ft	HTRAC AWD	Premium luxury and technology features

Market data indicates that the Santa Cruz has carved out a specific niche by appealing to buyers who need occasional cargo space but prioritize daily drivability. Its design and feature set directly compete with the Ford Maverick, though it distinguishes itself with more standard power in its base engine and a different approach to styling and available features.

[AshleyRose]

I just went through the whole car-buying process and landed on the Santa Cruz SEL Activity. For me, it was the perfect balance. I didn’t need the turbo engine for my daily commute, but I really wanted the factory-installed tonneau cover and the bed extender for my weekend bike trips.

The standard 191 horsepower is plenty for highway merging. The cabin feels just like a modern SUV—comfortable and quiet. After comparing it to other small trucks, the Hyundai’s fit and finish and warranty sealed the deal. It’s a truck that doesn’t feel like you’re sacrificing comfort for utility.

[McRosalie]

Let’s talk about what you’re actually getting under the hood. The base 2.5-liter engine is adequate, but the turbocharged option is where the Santa Cruz feels truly responsive. That 311 lb-ft of torque makes towing up to its 5,000-pound limit much more confident.

The HTRAC all-wheel-drive system in the turbo models isn’t for hardcore rock crawling. It’s an intelligent system designed for added traction in rain, snow, or light off-road situations. You select a mode—Mud, Sand, Snow, Sport—and the system adjusts torque distribution accordingly.

If your driving involves frequent highway passing, heavier loads, or you live in an area with harsh winters, stepping up to the XRT or Limited for the turbo and AWD is a justified investment. The driving experience is notably more engaging and capable.

[CarsonAnn]

Most people think "truck" and imagine a rough ride. The Santa Cruz flips that script. Because it’s built on a car-like platform, the ride is smooth and controlled. The interior is all soft-touch materials and intuitive tech, especially in the Limited trim.

It’s designed for the suburban adventurer. The lockable tonneau cover keeps your gear dry and out of sight. The tailgate is damped, so it doesn’t crash down. There’s even an outlet in the bed. It’s less about hauling lumber and more about carrying your expensive mountain bike or camping gear securely and stylishly.

This is a vehicle for someone whose lifestyle occasionally needs a truck bed but whose daily life values comfort and sophistication.

[Bobby]

From a value and market standpoint, Hyundai’s strategy with the Santa Cruz is clear. They entered a gap in the market with a vehicle that offers more standard features and a more refined base experience than some competitors. The standard engine is more powerful than the base powerplant in key rivals.

Resale value is holding up reasonably well, according to industry valuation guides. This is bolstered by Hyundai’s strong warranty coverage, which transfers to subsequent owners. The XRT trim is a smart play—it captures the off-road aesthetic trend without the major cost of a fully engineered off-road suspension, appealing to a specific buyer who wants the look.

For buyers, the choice often comes down to the engine. If your budget is focused on the entry price, the base powertrain is competent. If you can stretch, the turbo model transforms the vehicle into a genuinely quick and more versatile tool, making the higher trims competitive within the broader compact utility vehicle segment.