2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Configuration
Engine:
- Turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4.
- Aluminum block and head.
- Port and direct fuel injection.
- Displacement: 152 in3, 2497 cm3.
- Power: 281 hp @ 5800 rpm.
- Torque: 311 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm.
Transmission:
- 8-speed dual-clutch automatic.
Dimensions:
- Wheelbase: 118.3 in.
- Length: 195.7 in.
- Width: 75.0 in.
- Height: 66.7 in.
- Passenger Volume: 104 ft3.
- Curb Weight: 4132 lb.
Performance (C/D Test Results):
- 0-60 mph: 6.0 sec.
- 1/4-Mile: 14.5 sec @ 98 mph.
- Top Speed (gov ltd): 133 mph.
- Braking, 70–0 mph: 171 ft.
- Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.82 g.
Fuel Economy:
- Observed: 18 mpg.
- 75-mph Highway Driving: 30 mpg.
- Highway Range: 530 mi.
Price:
- Base/As Tested: $40,945/$41,140.
- Additional option: Carpeted floor mats, $195.
What’s New for 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz?
Hyundai introduces 2024 Santa Cruz XRT, a captivating blend of sophistication and rugged prowess. Replacing the SEL Premium trim, the XRT seamlessly combines plush features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, black faux-leather upholstery, and adaptive cruise control with robust elements inherited from the SEL and the optional Activity Package. Wider fender flares, side steps, and bed rails enhance its adventurous appeal. Across the lineup, standard LED projector headlights illuminate the path forward. Notably, haptic feedback enriches the driving experience with lane keep assist and blind spot collision avoidance.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Unlock a world of driving excellence with the Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT, a top-tier choice seamlessly combining style and power. Formerly known as the SEL Premium, the XRT is our top recommendation across the $30k to $70k range. Though it commands a higher MSRP, the investment is justified by the turbocharged engine, delivering exhilarating acceleration that redefines your driving experience. Elevating towing capabilities to 5000 pounds, the XRT includes all-wheel drive, a premium feature on the SEL. Embrace a rugged aesthetic with distinctive equipment enhancements and sleek dark chrome trim. For those who seek optimal performance and unparalleled style, the Santa Cruz XRT is unrivaled.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Embark on an exhilarating journey with the Hyundai Santa Cruz, offering two dynamic powertrains tailored to your driving aspirations. The SE and SEL boast a robust 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, while the Night, XRT, and Limited elevate the experience with a turbocharged 2.5-liter powerhouse, delivering an impressive 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. Unleashing this power is an eight-speed automatic transmission for the SE and SEL, while the turbocharged variants enjoy an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Stand out in urban landscapes with agile handling, accentuated by the Santa Cruz’s compact design. Elevate your driving pleasure, whether navigating city streets or enjoying the refined ride of the top-tier Limited model.
Towing and Payload Capacity
Towing prowess of the Hyundai Santa Cruz, where options meet excellence. Opt for the base four-cylinder, and you’ll effortlessly tow 3,500 pounds, a testament to its versatile capabilities. Elevate your towing experience with the premium turbocharged engine, aligning the Santa Cruz with class leaders like the Honda Ridgeline and Ford Maverick. Embrace the power to tow with confidence, matching and exceeding the standards set by its unibody truck counterparts. Whether it’s adventure gear, weekend toys, or practical necessities, the Santa Cruz proves it’s not just a truck – it’s a powerful companion ready for any journey you choose.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz delivering remarkable fuel economy without compromising performance. With the base engine and front-wheel drive, it boasts an impressive 22 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Opt for the turbocharged version, and you’ll still enjoy excellent efficiency with estimates of 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. Elevate your highway experience even further – during our rigorous testing, a turbocharged Santa Cruz excelled, achieving an outstanding 30 mpg.
Pros:
Unique Design: The Hyundai Santa Cruz stands out with its distinctive design, combining SUV and pickup truck elements for a fresh and modern appearance.
Compact Size: Its smaller dimensions make it easy to maneuver in urban environments and provide a more car-like driving experience.
Turbocharged Engine Option: The available turbocharged engine delivers robust performance, especially beneficial for those who prioritize acceleration and towing capacity.
Versatile Bed: The open bed design allows for flexible cargo options, accommodating both recreational gear and practical hauling needs.
Comfortable Cabin: The interior is well-designed, featuring comfortable seating, user-friendly controls, and available advanced technology options.
All-Wheel Drive Availability: All-wheel drive is an option for most trims, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Fuel Efficiency: The Santa Cruz, particularly with the base engine, offers competitive fuel efficiency for its class.
Cons:
Limited Towing Capacity: While the turbocharged engine enhances towing capacity, the base engine’s 3,500-pound limit may be restrictive for those with heavier towing requirements.
Compact Bed Size: The smaller bed size may limit the Santa Cruz’s utility for certain hauling or work-related tasks compared to traditional pickup trucks.
Limited Off-Road Capability: Despite its SUV-like design, the Santa Cruz may not have the off-road prowess of more rugged trucks or SUVs.
Pricing: As you move up in trims, the Santa Cruz’s pricing can approach that of larger, more established trucks, potentially making it less cost-effective for some buyers.
Limited Interior Space: The compact size may result in less interior space, particularly in the rear seats, compared to larger trucks.
2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Infotainment and Connectivity
Step into luxury with the Hyundai Santa Cruz, boasting an interior that defies its class. Hyundai’s design mastery shines through, offering a cabin that feels more upscale than its price suggests. Setting a new standard, the Santa Cruz introduces the first fully digital gauge cluster in its class, adding a touch of modern sophistication. Embrace a tactile driving experience with a traditional shifter on the center console, a nod to convenience and classic design. In the spacious four-door crew cab, passengers revel in comfort, rivaling larger trucks. While the cargo bed is compact, its versatility shines with a lockable tonneau cover and a handy in-bed trunk, reminiscent of Honda’s innovation.
2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Elevate your journey with the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz, a paragon of safety innovation. Embrace peace of mind with standard driver-attention warning and opt for additional protection with available adaptive cruise control. Unveil the Santa Cruz’s safety credentials through comprehensive crash-test results on the NHTSA and IIHS websites. Experience a secure ride with standard features like forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Santa Cruz doesn’t just redefine style and performance – it prioritizes your safety, ensuring every drive is a confident and secure exploration of the open road.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Hyundai’s got your back with an awesome warranty plan! You get five years or 60,000 miles of coverage for any issues, and the super important powertrain (the important engine stuff) is covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles – that’s a long time! Plus, they throw in free maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles, which means less worry about routine car check-ups. It’s like having a safety net for your car adventures, making Hyundai a top choice for reliable and stress-free driving.
Final Thoughts
2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz emerges as a versatile standout, blending SUV and pickup traits seamlessly. With a striking design and a well-crafted interior that exudes a premium feel, it’s a head-turner. The turbocharged engine option elevates performance, while the compact size ensures easy urban navigation. Though the cargo bed is smaller, it compensates with innovative features like a lockable tonneau cover and an in-bed trunk. Hyundai’s commitment to safety shines with advanced driver-assistance features. Factor in Hyundai’s exceptional warranty coverage, and the Santa Cruz becomes a compelling choice for those seeking style, practicality, and peace of mind.