Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz gets a substantial refresh, but its biggest buying decision remains familiar: choose the more efficient, naturally aspirated engine or the stronger turbo, then decide whether its crossover-like comfort and open bed suit your work and recreation better than a compact pickup such as the Ford Maverick. Here are 10 points to check, with prices, mileage and towing figures tied to the configurations Hyundai lists.
1. The 2025 model gets a meaningful refresh
Hyundai updated the Santa Cruz’s front fascia and grille, wheel designs and daytime running lights for 2025. The cabin also gets a refresh, including more physical controls for frequently used audio and climate functions, along with new driver-assistance features. Availability varies by trim, so check the equipment list for the specific version you are considering rather than assuming every new feature is standard.
Hyundai described the update as aiming for bolder styling and greater capability, particularly with the XRT. The company announced the changes on March 27, 2024.
2. There are five U.S. trims, but listed prices do not tell the whole story
The U.S. lineup comprises SE, SEL, SEL Activity, XRT and Limited. Hyundai’s current model page lists these starting MSRPs for the trims shown below. MSRP excludes freight, tax, title and license; freight and dealer prices can vary. The page excerpt available for this information did not state an SEL Activity starting price, so it is not included here.
#1 Best Overall
- Custom Fitment:Precisely designed with 3D laser scanning technology for Hyundai Santa Cruz 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026,perfect design edge to edge for maximum coverage and protection with TPE material which ensures your Santa Cruz Accessories more strength, resilience, durability and elasticity.（Note: The original car carpet floor mats need to be removed before installing the floor mats.）
- All-Weather Protection: Whether it's a snowstorm, muddy roads, or spills from snacks and playful pets.These durable Santa Cruz floor mats can easily handle it..Engineered raised edge trap spills, mud, snow and debris, while reinforced textured patterns reduce foot slippage. Custom clips in car floor mats lock onto original car anchors for zero movement
- TPE Safe & Durable:All-weather Santa Cruz floor mats crafted from high-grade TPE,which combines environmental friendliness and durability perfectly.They can withstand various extreme weather conditions such as heavy rains and snowstorms, boasting durability and resistance to deformation. Note: Minor creases caused by folded transportation can be naturally smoothed out by placing the mats in sunlight for several hours
- Easy Installation & Cleaning: These floor liner designed for effortless setup—no additional tools required, allowing for quick and smooth installation. While getting dirty, just rinse with water hose in seconds and air dry
- Service: Thank you for choosing Mixsuper Floor mats. Please confirm the model and specifications you need before placing your order. If you receive the wrong item, please contact us immediately,We provide comprehensive and professional after-sales service and look forward to your satisfaction.
| Trim | Hyundai-listed starting MSRP | Engine and transmission | Drivetrain availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| SE | $28,750 | 191-hp 2.5L four-cylinder; eight-speed automatic | FWD; optional HTRAC AWD |
| SEL | $30,450 | 191-hp 2.5L four-cylinder; eight-speed automatic | FWD; optional HTRAC AWD |
| SEL Activity | Not stated on Hyundai’s returned model-page excerpt | 191-hp 2.5L four-cylinder; eight-speed automatic | FWD; optional HTRAC AWD |
| XRT | $40,250 | 281-hp turbocharged 2.5L; eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission | HTRAC AWD standard |
| Limited | $42,750 | 281-hp turbocharged 2.5L; eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission | HTRAC AWD standard |
Prices, equipment and EPA estimates are from Hyundai’s current U.S. Santa Cruz model page; confirm the dealer’s window sticker and quote for the vehicle you are shopping.
3. Turbo or non-turbo? The choice changes performance and transmission
Non-turbo: SE, SEL and SEL Activity
These trims use a 191-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder paired with an eight-speed automatic. It is the less powerful setup, but it is also the configuration associated with the lineup’s highest listed fuel-economy estimate.
Rank #2
- FITMENT MODELS: Fits for 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz. Please check the internal shape of the armrest lid, you can refer to Image 2 before purchasing.
- PATENT DESIGN: The hidden box is a complete storage box, rather than a simple shell in the market. It is custom-designed to fit seamlessly under or within the car's existing armrest, fills the compartment space, and doesn't affect the closing of the armrest box lid. It fits like a glove.
- !!!TIPS: Before installation, please clean the compartment and keep dry (this is important), tear off the tapes on the hidden box, put it into the compartment, and press on the left and right sides for 20 seconds (This will make the storage box stick more firmly)
- HIGH QUALITY: Made of high-quality ABS plastic material with a matte finish, durable and non-deforming.
- EXTRA SPACE: Creates a hidden storage space for keeping your items safe, you can store some small important items, such as bank cards, keys, cash, wallets, etc.
Turbo: XRT and Limited
XRT and Limited get a 281-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter engine producing 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. That is the powertrain to consider if you prioritize stronger acceleration and the higher tow rating, while accepting lower EPA mileage estimates. Hyundai announced the engine specifications in its 2025 refresh announcement.
4. AWD is optional on three trims and standard on two
SE, SEL and SEL Activity are offered with front-wheel drive, with HTRAC all-wheel drive available as an option. XRT and Limited include HTRAC AWD. If you need AWD for local conditions or frequent travel on low-traction surfaces, compare the actual vehicle’s drivetrain and price; do not assume it is included on the lower trims.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Rank #3
- Compatible for Hyundai Santa Cruz 2022-2026 Windshield Sun Shade: Precisely designed windshield sunshade fit for Hyundai Santa Cruz - 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 to provide full windshield coverage with 100% light blocker.
- Maximum Heat & UV Blocking Windshield Sunshade: Reflective windshield sun shade with a 4-layer cover blocks 99.89% of UVA & 99.95% of UVB and offers SPF 100 & UPF 80+ protection, reducing harmful UV rays and extreme heat, keeping the car’s interior cooler while protecting the dashboard, seats, and steering wheel.
- Premium Insulated Sunshade Material: High-density 280T front windshield sunshade with multi-layer reflective insulation effectively deflects sunlight and reduces interior heat buildup during hot summer days.
- Quick Install Folding Windshield Sun Shade: Foldable Front Window shade installs in seconds and stores easily in the glove box or door pocket when not in use.
- Durable Long-Lasting Windshield Sunshade: Reinforced stitched edges prevent warping, bending, or tearing, making the sun shade ideal for daily windshield protection and long-term use.
5. Fuel economy depends on trim and drivetrain
Hyundai lists these EPA estimates for the 2025 Santa Cruz. They are estimates, not a promise of real-world results; actual mileage varies with options, conditions, driving habits and vehicle condition.
| Configuration | City / highway / combined |
|---|---|
| SE, SEL or SEL Activity, FWD | 22 / 30 / 25 mpg |
| SE, SEL or SEL Activity, AWD | 21 / 29 / 24 mpg |
| XRT, AWD | 18 / 26 / 21 mpg |
| Limited, AWD | 19 / 27 / 22 mpg |
These figures are Hyundai’s current U.S. model-page listings; verify the label for the exact vehicle, especially if it has options that affect mileage.
Rank #4
- Upgraded Design: It is custom-designed to fit inner of armrest, more fit, Provides a convenient hole through the back of the organizer where you can route your cord for a phone charger cable.
- Santa Cruz: Fits for 2022-2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz (NOT fit for Santa Cruz Limited/XRT).
- Extra Space: Adds an extra layer of storage, you can hold some smaller items on top, and there is also space underneath it to put larger things that you don’t need very often.
- High Quality: This center console tray is made of high-quality ABS plastic material with a matte finish and non-slip rubber pads which keep things from sliding around and rattling inside.
- Good Service: If you have any questions about the product, please let us know and we will respond to you in time and try our best to solve it.
6. Towing capacity depends on the powertrain and equipment
Hyundai rates the standard 2.5-liter Santa Cruz for up to 3,500 pounds and the turbo AWD version for up to 5,000 pounds. The 5,000-pound maximum is conditional: Hyundai USA says it requires an XRT or Limited and installation of aftermarket towing equipment. The headline maximum therefore does not apply to every trim or to an XRT or Limited without the required equipment.
Before towing, check the owner’s manual and the vehicle’s labels for the limits that apply to your specific truck and setup. A trailer hitch receiver alone should not be treated as a complete towing system; confirm all required equipment and compatibility for the vehicle and trailer. Hyundai’s stated rating and conditions are on its model page and in its 2025 announcement.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Best Value
- The car windshield sun shade is designed specifically for 2022-2026 2027 Santa Cruz models (OEM Design) and not available on other models. Please double-check the model to ensure there are no errors.
- Enjoy powerful sun protection and heat blocking with this innovative car windshield sunshade! It reflects and blocks 99% of harmful UV rays. Its heat insulation capabilities are 60 times more effective than traditional sun visors! Transform your driving space into a cool and comfortable haven!
- The car windshield sunshade incorporates a "memory steel ring," enabling flexible twisting and folding. When you need to store it, simply fold it, twist it into an "8" shape using the steel ring, and tuck it into the accompanying storage bag, which convenient storage and storage.
- Made from high-quality 240T reflective polyester, this windshield sunshade efficiently blocks both heat and sunlight, helping keep the inside of your vehicle cool. Its upgraded aluminum alloy memory frame enhances flexibility, making it easy to settle into the windshield while also facilitating simple folding and retraction.
- Our after-sales service guarantees complete satisfaction—100%! If you encounter any problems with the windshield sun shade , don’t hesitate to contact us. Enjoy a risk-free purchase and our commitment to your satisfaction.
7. XRT adds equipment, but it is not a dedicated off-roader
The XRT’s distinguishing equipment includes all-terrain tires, front tow hooks, an increased approach angle, XRT-specific bumpers and grille, plus Surround View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor. These features add visibility and a more adventure-oriented setup, but they do not establish that the Santa Cruz is a dedicated off-road vehicle. Consider the terrain you actually expect to encounter and verify which features are fitted to the individual vehicle.
8. Hyundai’s warranty and maintenance offer have conditions
Hyundai advertises a 5-year/60,000-mile new-vehicle limited warranty, a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and complimentary maintenance for the first 3 years/36,000 miles. The powertrain coverage has original-owner and use restrictions, and the published warranty terms govern eligibility and coverage. Review Hyundai’s current terms for the vehicle and your circumstances rather than treating the advertised duration as unconditional.
9. Santa Cruz or Ford Maverick? Match the truck to the job
The Santa Cruz is the more crossover-like, comfort-oriented choice in the comparison described by the Associated Press in an article carried by Edmunds. That account also highlights the Maverick’s stronger payload and available efficient hybrid powertrain, while comparing versions in which the Santa Cruz had the higher maximum tow rating.
In that 2025 comparison, reported payload was 1,411 pounds for the Santa Cruz and 1,500 pounds for the Maverick. Those are figures from the versions compared, not universal values for every model-year, trim or drivetrain. Check the specific vehicles’ labels and specifications if payload is central to your decision.
Recommended Free Tools
- Lean toward Santa Cruz if a more crossover-like character, comfort-oriented driving and the available higher tow rating on the properly equipped turbo AWD trims fit your priorities.
- Lean toward Maverick if payload capacity or an available hybrid is more important to your use.
- Compare exact versions for price, powertrain, fuel economy, payload and towing; broad model-level comparisons can conceal configuration differences.
10. Check equipment and fitment before buying towing accessories
Hyundai’s requirement for aftermarket towing equipment to reach the 5,000-pound maximum makes accessory fitment a practical part of the purchase. The available information does not establish a particular receiver’s compatibility or identify a complete 2025 towing kit. Confirm the precise vehicle fitment and all required components with Hyundai or the equipment manufacturer before purchasing, and use the owner’s manual when determining what the truck may tow.
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.
