2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Review: The Ideal Truck for Those Who Dislike Pickups

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      The current new car market has its share of drawbacks, but one silver lining is that buyers today can choose from a variety of truck sizes according to their preferences. There's no longer a one-size-fits-all approach; now we have full-sized and mid-sized trucks, as well as car-based pickups, compact trucks, and even customizable electric pickups on the horizon.

      The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz occupies a unique position in this range. Traditional truck enthusiasts may criticize its unibody construction and 4.3-foot bed, while others may be attracted to its distinctive styling and unexpectedly adept handling on the road. It may not be the ideal pickup for everyone, but it likely meets the needs of some, which is significant in a crowded market.

      Adam Ismail

      Overview

      Entering its fourth model year, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz receives a mid-cycle update. If you look closely, you’ll notice changes in the grille design, and there’s now a more rugged XRT trim available. However, the significant enhancements are inside the cabin, where the new Santa Cruz presents a noticeably upscale atmosphere for a compact truck, even compared to its predecessor.

      It may seem odd to begin a truck review by discussing the interior, but this is where the new model truly establishes its uniqueness. Picture the interior of a typical pickup—what comes to mind? Bulky levers and dials? Hexagonal vents? Rubber-lined compartments for tools? Trim with fake hex bolts? The Santa Cruz avoids these clichéd, rough elements, making for a more sophisticated experience.

      What I encountered in my Limited trim loaner included: high-quality plastics, a low dashboard, and slim pillars that provide outstanding visibility. It featured tasteful materials like heather canvas fabric and perforated sage leather for the seats. Additionally, the dual screens, akin to other Hyundai models, extend from the instrument cluster to the center console without obstructing your line of sight. The only giveaway that you’re in a pickup is the shelf above the glovebox, which is a practical touch. Overall, this cabin would be fitting and appreciated in any vehicle at the $44,575 price point of my fully equipped pickup, which ironically highlights the Santa Cruz's appeal: its normalcy.

      That said, there are quirks, unsurprising given the truck’s divisive exterior. The steering wheel features a more traditional three-spoke design compared to its predecessor, with a bottom that’s neither entirely flat nor circular, but somewhere in between. Like other Hyundai models, there’s a fingerprint sensor linked to user profiles, although I find its placement on a large panel next to the instrument cluster puzzling. Furthermore, the bulk of the HVAC controls on a dedicated touchscreen is likely to frustrate users, as it did me.

      I also found myself wishing that Hyundai had produced a two-door version of the Santa Cruz that would allow for more second-row seating by sacrificing some bed space. The rear legroom is unexpectedly tight, measuring five inches less than that of the Tucson. The only redeeming feature is the ability to lift the seats for substantial storage compartments.

      Regarding the bed, the Limited trim includes a tonneau cover, which I found a bit tricky to open and close; it sometimes required excessive force to operate the latch. Also, it takes up a good amount of space near the rear, next to the passenger area. However, Hyundai provides three storage compartments within the bed—two side cubbies, one with an AC socket, and an underfloor bin with drainage. Think of all the tailgating possibilities!

      Adam Ismail

      Now that we've covered the thoughtful, appealing interior and clever storage options, let's discuss the driving experience that makes the Santa Cruz stand out among trucks. Prior to receiving my unit, I read my friend Andrew's earlier review to gauge opinions since I had not driven one before. Like Andrew, my model came with the optional upgraded engine: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. In the Santa Cruz, this engine is only available with all-wheel drive. Just as Andrew noted, I was surprised at how enjoyable it was to drive. In terms of agility, it can be likened to the Miata among vehicles with a bed.

      This powertrain is impressive; my only critique is the accelerator pedal’s calibration, which makes the transition from complete stillness to responsive acceleration feel too delicate when inching forward at stoplights. However, the chassis's stability is truly memorable.

      While the Santa Cruz doesn't utilize a traditional ladder frame, it’s surprising how intuitively and nimbly it handles, which makes it feel much more agile than the bulky Yukon AT4 I tested previously. Additionally, the Santa Cruz provided a much more comfortable ride than that larger SUV, which costs significantly more. While buyers often don't