The 2025 Ford Maverick is the stronger fit if you want a hybrid compact pickup, truck-oriented utility and higher reported payload; the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz is the better match if you want an available 281-hp turbo engine, higher reported maximum towing and a more crossover-like driving experience. Both received meaningful refreshes for 2025, so the choice comes down to how you will use the vehicle—not just its new styling.
This comparison covers US-market 2025 models. Ford calls the Maverick a pickup, while Hyundai markets the Santa Cruz as a Sport Adventure Vehicle. Trim equipment, ratings and prices vary by configuration.
What changed for 2025?
Ford Maverick
Ford revised the Maverick’s front bumper, grille and headlamps, with grille treatments varying by trim. Inside, the key technology update is a 13.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Ford also added a hybrid all-wheel-drive option alongside hybrid front-wheel drive, and introduced features including a 360-degree camera and towing-assistance technology, depending on trim. Ford announced the 2025 updates on July 31, 2024: Ford’s 2025 Maverick announcement.
Hyundai Santa Cruz
Hyundai refreshed the Santa Cruz’s front fascia, grille, wheel designs and daytime running lights. The cabin received a redesigned dashboard and an available panoramic display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included across the trim range, while safety equipment and the XRT’s functional updates depend on trim. Hyundai says the XRT adds front tow hooks and all-terrain tires, along with an increased approach angle. The company unveiled the refresh on March 27, 2024: Hyundai’s 2025 Santa Cruz announcement.
#1 Best Overall
- Collectible Die-Cast Model: This 1:64 scale Hot Wheels car is a highly detailed replica of the 22 Ford Maverick Custom pickup truck.
- Iconic Hot Wheels Design: Features the signature red lines and 'Hot Wheels' branding on the sides.
- Authentic Details: Boasts a realistic metallic blue paint job and accurately sculpted exterior details.
- Part of Hot Trucks Series: Belongs to the popular Hot Trucks line, celebrating iconic trucks and pickups.
- Compact Size: Measures approximately 3 inches long, perfect for display or playtime.
How do their engines and efficiency compare?
The Maverick is the only one of the two with a hybrid powertrain. Its 2.5-liter hybrid is rated at 191 total system horsepower, and for 2025 it can be paired with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. A 2.0-liter EcoBoost gasoline engine is also available. See Ford’s 2025 Maverick specifications for configuration details.
The Santa Cruz offers two gasoline engines: a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter rated at 191 horsepower and 181 lb.-ft. of torque, or an available turbocharged 2.5-liter rated at 281 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. Hyundai’s US model page lists trim-specific estimated fuel economy—for example, 25 mpg combined for the SE FWD and 24 mpg combined for the SE AWD. Those are EPA estimates, not a promise of what an individual owner will achieve. Check the exact trim and drivetrain on Hyundai’s Santa Cruz model page.
If fuel economy is the priority, compare the specific Maverick hybrid configuration with the Santa Cruz you would actually buy. If stronger acceleration is more important, the Santa Cruz turbo’s higher output is the standout figure. Engine ratings alone do not establish real-world fuel use or performance across every trim.
Rank #2
- Licensed die-cast replicas
- Window style box for display
- 1:18 Diecast Scale
- New Ray Authentic
Which one is better for towing and payload?
An AP-distributed Edmunds comparison reports these maximum figures for particular configurations. They are not universal ratings for every Maverick or Santa Cruz:
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|---|---|---|
| Maverick hybrid | 2,000 lb. [AP-distributed Edmunds comparison] | Up to 1,500 lb. across the Maverick range [AP-distributed Edmunds comparison] |
| Maverick with turbo engine, properly equipped | Up to 4,000 lb. [AP-distributed Edmunds comparison] | Up to 1,500 lb. across the Maverick range [AP-distributed Edmunds comparison] |
| Santa Cruz with base engine | 3,500 lb. [AP-distributed Edmunds comparison] | Not stated in the comparison |
| Santa Cruz with turbo engine, properly equipped | Up to 5,000 lb. [AP-distributed Edmunds comparison] | Not stated in the comparison |
For the reported maximum towing figure, the Santa Cruz turbo leads at 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Maverick’s reported maximum payload of up to 1,500 pounds makes it the more compelling choice for truck-style hauling, but payload depends on the individual vehicle. Before towing or loading, confirm the exact vehicle’s ratings and read the payload label on its driver-side door jamb. The comparison’s figures are configuration-specific, not substitutes for those vehicle-level limits. The cited AP-distributed Edmunds comparison also includes road-test impressions tied to the vehicles it evaluated.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How do they differ as daily drivers?
The independent comparison characterizes the Maverick as the more conventional, efficiency- and payload-oriented truck, while finding the Santa Cruz more comfortable and crossover-like. Those are editorial impressions from the tested vehicles, not universal measurements: trim, tires and powertrain can affect the experience. A test drive on the roads you use most is the best way to judge ride comfort, visibility, cabin controls and how each vehicle’s bed works for your routine.
Rank #3
- +3 years
- Collectible Miniature
- Made of metal
- Rubber tires
- For collecting or playing
What do the 2025 models cost?
Ford announced a Maverick starting MSRP of $26,295, plus $1,595 for destination and delivery. Hyundai’s US model page lists the Santa Cruz SE starting at $28,750 and excludes freight, taxes, title and license. The figures use different presentations, and neither is an out-the-door quote or a current local transaction price. Compare the same drivetrain and similar equipment, then check local inventory, dealer options and incentives. Sources: Ford and Hyundai.
Which should you buy?
Choose the Ford Maverick if
- You want a hybrid powertrain, including the new-for-2025 hybrid AWD choice.
- You prioritize the Maverick’s truck-oriented utility and its higher reported payload ceiling.
- You value the large touchscreen and want to compare available features such as the 360-degree camera by trim.
Choose the Hyundai Santa Cruz if
- You want the stronger available engine: the 281-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter.
- You need its higher reported maximum towing figure and can confirm the exact vehicle is properly equipped.
- You prefer the more crossover-like comfort described in the independent comparison.
For either one, match the vehicle to the job: compare equivalent trim and drivetrain, verify towing and payload limits on the specific vehicle, and get a local price that includes the charges and options you will actually pay for.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
