The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz made its debut at the New York Auto Show and is set to hit dealer lots later this summer. With new updates and features, including a redesigned exterior and updated interior, the new Santa Cruz comes with a higher price tag compared to the previous model. Let’s take a closer look at what the money pays for in the 2025 Santa Cruz.
### Redesigned Exterior and Interior
The 2025 Santa Cruz features a new front grille, fresh front bumper, re-styled daytime running lights, and new wheel designs. Inside, the Santa Cruz gets a similar update to the refreshed Tucson, with a panoramic curved screen setup that includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment system. The center stack controls have been redesigned to include physical buttons and switches for easier use, along with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
### Technology Updates
The Santa Cruz also comes with various new systems, such as a fingerprint scanner for vehicle startup, Digital Key 2 technology for phone-as-key use, over-the-air updates for the infotainment system, more powerful USB-C ports, and a new driver attention monitoring system. These updates bring the Santa Cruz in line with the latest technology offerings in the automotive industry.
### XRT Off-Roading Trim
Hyundai has enhanced the XRT off-roading trim for the Santa Cruz to make it a more robust off-roader. The XRT now includes features like an exclusive grille, red tow hooks, and all-terrain tires for improved off-road performance. The cabin also receives XRT logos, and a Surround View Monitor is included to enhance visibility in off-road situations.
### Powertrains
The powertrains for the 2025 Santa Cruz remain unchanged, with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower or a turbocharged variant that makes 281 horsepower. Both engines are paired with either an eight-speed automatic transmission or an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The turbocharged engine now includes a tow mode for improved towing capabilities.
### Updated Trim Levels and Pricing
The Night trim has been replaced by the SEL Activity package, filling the gap between the SEL and XRT trims. The pricing for the 2025 Santa Cruz has increased compared to the 2024 model year, with MSRPs ranging from $29,895 for the base model to $43,895 for the Limited trim. These price increases reflect the additional features and enhancements that come with the 2025 Santa Cruz.
In conclusion, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a range of updates and improvements compared to the previous model year. With a redesigned exterior, updated interior, and new technology features, the Santa Cruz is set to appeal to a wide range of consumers looking for a versatile and capable light-duty truck. While the pricing may have increased for the 2025 model year, the enhancements and upgrades make the Santa Cruz a competitive option in the midsize truck segment.