2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz: Pricing and Features You Might Not Know
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz continues to blur the line between a rugged pickup and a modern SUV. With its bold design, smart interior features, and multiple trims catering to different lifestyles, the Santa Cruz remains a standout in its segment. This year’s update brings subtle refinements and a price increase that reflects added tech and comfort.
Pricing Overview
For 2025, Hyundai has revised the pricing structure for the Santa Cruz lineup. The base SE trim now starts at $29,895, marking a modest jump from the previous year. The new SEL Activity trim is available at $34,595, positioned as a versatile option for weekend adventurers. The off-road-focused XRT trim comes in at $41,395, while the fully loaded Limited model tops the range at $43,895. Each price point offers a well-rounded mix of features that justify the increase.
Trim Options and Upgrades
Hyundai offers the Santa Cruz in multiple trims to cater to various needs. The SE trim includes standard features like stain-resistant cloth seats and an 8-inch touchscreen. The SEL adds convenience touches such as dual-zone climate control and push-button start. The SEL Activity version introduces a sunroof, a sliding rear window, and an integrated tonneau cover, making it an ideal choice for active lifestyles.
The XRT trim is all about rugged appeal. It adds black exterior accents, beefy tires, and functional upgrades for light off-roading. At the top of the lineup, the Limited trim offers luxury with leather seating surfaces, ventilated front seats, a Bose audio system, and upgraded infotainment displays.
Performance and Efficiency
Buyers can choose between two powertrains. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 191 horsepower and is well-suited for daily driving. For those seeking more muscle, the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine boosts output to 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This setup significantly enhances towing capacity and off-road capability, especially when paired with all-wheel drive. Fuel economy remains a strong point, with the base engine offering up to 30 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged variant, while slightly less efficient, offers a rewarding driving experience with minimal compromise.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the 2025 Santa Cruz feels more SUV than truck. Hyundai’s design team has prioritized comfort with features like available dual 12.3-inch digital displays, ambient lighting, and optional leather upholstery. The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making smartphone integration seamless. Hyundai has also included over-the-air update capability for the first time in this model, keeping the system fresh long after purchase.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Hyundai continues to impress with its standard safety tech. Every Santa Cruz comes with a full suite of advanced safety features including Forward Collision Avoidance, Blind-Spot Monitoring, Lane Keeping Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. Higher trims benefit from Highway Driving Assist and a surround-view monitor, offering a higher level of driver confidence and convenience.
Conclusion
With its unique combination of utility, comfort, and bold styling, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz stands out in a market that’s often split between trucks and crossovers. Whether you’re looking for a vehicle to support your weekend adventures or just want something different in a daily driver, the Santa Cruz makes a strong case for itself.
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