Best Hyundai Santa Cruz Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

1. 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz

The 2025 refresh ranks first because it delivers the most comprehensive improvements of any model year, including a redesigned interior with dual 12.3-inch displays and restored physical climate controls. The turbo engine carries over at roughly 281 horsepower, but the dual-clutch transmission receives retuned calibration for smoother low-speed behavior. New XRT trim adds all-terrain tires and improved approach angles. This is the most polished and technologically current Santa Cruz available.

This is the pick for buyers who want the latest technology and a polished cabin without accepting launch-year compromises. It trades away the significant used-market discount of earlier models, costing thousands more than a comparable 2023 or 2024 turbo. Compared to the 2024 turbo below, the 2025 offers a meaningfully better interior and transmission calibration, but the 2024 delivers nearly the same driving experience for substantially less money if your priority is capability per dollar.

2. 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL Premium Turbo

The 2023 SEL Premium turbo ranks second because it offers the best value in the lineup, combining mature dual-clutch software with the full 281-hp and 311-lb-ft turbo powertrain and standard all-wheel drive. By the second model year, Hyundai had propagated transmission control module updates through the fleet, resolving much of the launch-year hesitation. This trim bundles leather, ventilated seats, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and the SmartSense driver-assist suite.

This is the configuration for buyers who want maximum capability per dollar without paying new-car prices. It trades away the refreshed cabin and physical controls of the 2025, but delivers functionally identical hardware underneath. Compared to the 2024 turbo ranked below, the 2023 is slightly older but carries a lower purchase price, making it the stronger value for those who can verify documented service history and TCM updates.

3. 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Turbo

The 2024 turbo ranks third as the most refined pre-refresh model year, with the same 281-hp turbo and dual-clutch transmission now benefiting from several years of accumulated software improvements. The low-speed hesitation that defined early reviews is largely resolved by this model year, making it a smooth daily driver. The Activity and Night appearance packages add visual personality, and the truck retains most of its factory warranty. It offers the full 5,000-pound towing capability.

This is the pick for buyers who want a nearly current driving experience with a lower price than the 2025, while still having substantial warranty coverage remaining. It trades away the redesigned interior and physical climate controls of the refresh, but the mechanical experience is close.

4. 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT

The 2025 XRT ranks fourth because it is the most trail-capable Santa Cruz Hyundai has built, adding all-terrain tires, unique exterior treatment, improved approach angles, and trim-specific badging on top of the turbo and AWD. It keeps the refreshed cabin with dual 12.3-inch displays and physical controls, along with the retuned dual-clutch calibration. This is the only model year with genuine off-road-focused hardware from the factory. It retains the 281-hp turbo engine.

This is for buyers who regularly drive on unpaved surfaces or in snow and want genuine capability without stepping up to a body-on-frame truck. It trades away pavement refinement, as the all-terrain tires are noisier and ride harsher than highway rubber. Compared to the standard 2025 turbo ranked above, the XRT costs more and rides worse on road, but offers real off-road advantages that justify the premium for its intended use case.

5. 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL Base 2.5L

The 2023 SEL base 2.5L ranks fifth because it offers the lowest-risk powertrain in the lineup, pairing the 191-hp naturally aspirated engine with a conventional eight-speed torque-converter automatic. This combination is completely free of dual-clutch concern, making it a predictable and reliable daily driver. It is available with front- or all-wheel drive, and the SEL Activity package adds a sliding bed cover, roof rails, and other utility hardware. Towing is rated around 3,500 pounds.

This is for buyers who want a low-stress daily with light-hauling ability and do not need turbo performance. It trades away acceleration and towing capacity for the peace of mind of a proven, serviceable transmission with a deep independent-shop labor base. Compared to the 2024 base 2.5L ranked below, the 2023 is cheaper on the used market but slightly older, making it the better value for those who prioritize saving money over having a newer build.

6. 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Base 2.5L

The 2024 base 2.5L ranks sixth as the most worry-free powertrain in the lineup on a recent build, combining the 191-hp naturally aspirated engine with the conventional eight-speed automatic. It offers a lockable bed, available AWD, and a car-like ride, with most of the factory warranty still intact. Towing is capped around 3,500 pounds, which suits light hauling and small trailers. This is a dependable, low-complexity choice.

This is for buyers who want a recent, dependable vehicle without the complexity or cost of the turbo powertrain. It trades away the 5,000-pound tow rating and quick acceleration for lower running costs and simpler out-of-warranty service. Compared to the 2023 SEL base ranked above, the 2024 is newer and retains more warranty coverage, but costs more on the used market, making it the better pick for those who value a younger vehicle over the deepest discount.

7. 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited Turbo

The 2022 Limited turbo ranks seventh because it is the launch-year top trim, fully featured and quick, but it carries the most dual-clutch risk in the range. The 281-hp turbo and standard AWD deliver strong performance, and the Limited bundles premium features like leather and ventilated seats. However, 2022 launch builds drew the most consistent owner complaints about low-speed hesitation and shudder in stop-and-go traffic. It offers the full 5,000-pound tow rating.

This is for buyers who want a fully loaded turbo Santa Cruz at a discount and are willing to verify service history meticulously. It trades away the maturity of later model years for the lowest entry price into the top trim. Compared to the 2024 base 2.5L ranked above, this is significantly faster and more capable, but it carries far more powertrain risk, making it the better choice only for those who can document TCM updates and cleared recalls.

8. 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL Premium Turbo

The 2022 SEL Premium turbo ranks eighth because it offers most of the Limited's performance at a lower price, with the same 281-hp turbo and standard AWD. It includes the SmartSense driver-assist suite but fewer luxury extras than the Limited. Like all 2022 turbos, it carries launch-year dual-clutch risk, with hesitation and shudder complaints concentrated in these builds. It still provides a 5,000-pound tow rating.

This is for buyers who want turbo performance and standard AWD without paying for the Limited's luxury extras. It trades away the refined calibration of later model years for a lower purchase price. Compared to the 2022 Limited Turbo ranked above, this trim is cheaper but less equipped, making it the better value for those who prioritize capability over luxury, provided the TCM updates are documented and recalls are cleared.

9. 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE SEL Base 2.5L

The 2022 SE and SEL base 2.5L rank ninth as the cheapest way into the Santa Cruz body style, using the proven torque-converter automatic that sidesteps all dual-clutch concern. The 191-hp naturally aspirated engine provides adequate daily performance, and the fundamentals—lockable bed, available AWD, and SUV-derived cabin—are all intact. Fewer standard features are included, and there is no turbo pace or 5,000-pound tow rating. This is the lowest-risk entry point into the model.

This is for budget-conscious buyers who want the Santa Cruz's clever bed and compact footprint without powertrain risk. It trades away performance and features for the lowest possible cost of ownership. Compared to the 2022 SEL Premium Turbo ranked above, this is significantly slower and less capable, but it is also far cheaper and more reliable in the long run, making it the better choice for those who prioritize simplicity and value over capability.

10. 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz FWD Base

The 2022 front-wheel-drive base Santa Cruz ranks tenth because it is the lightest, least expensive, and most fuel-efficient version of the truck, but also the least capable. It uses the 191-hp naturally aspirated engine with the conventional automatic, and front-wheel drive only, making it correct only for mild climates and pavement-only use. The clever lockable bed and compact footprint are intact, but there is no AWD option and the tow rating is limited.

This is for buyers who want the Santa Cruz's utility and style in a warm-weather, urban environment without needing all-weather capability. It trades away AWD, towing capacity, and performance for the best fuel economy and the lowest purchase price. Compared to the 2022 SE SEL Base 2.5L ranked above, this is even less capable in adverse conditions, but it is the most affordable entry point into the model for those who never leave pavement.

How we ranked these

We ranked Santa Cruz model years by weighting powertrain maturity, transmission calibration, safety and recall status, interior updates, and warranty coverage. Value was measured by capability per dollar, with the 2023 SEL Premium turbo emerging as the best balance of performance, features, and depreciation. The 2025 refresh scored highest for its dual-screen cabin, physical climate controls, and retuned dual-clutch transmission.

We deliberately ignored subjective styling preferences, brand loyalty, and hypothetical future reliability beyond available data. We also excluded the Ford Maverick comparison from the ranking itself, since the task was to rank Santa Cruz years, not cross-shop segments. This keeps the ranking focused on verifiable model-year differences rather than personal taste or speculative long-term outcomes.

What to look for

What actually matters is matching the powertrain to your real towing and driving needs. The turbo's 5,000-pound rating and dual-clutch require documented software updates, especially on 2022 models. The base 2.5L with a torque-converter automatic is the lowest-risk choice for light duty. Always verify the drivetrain (FWD vs. AWD) and run the VIN through both Hyundai and NHTSA recall databases before signing.

The mistake most buyers make is buying the turbo 'just in case' without needing the towing capacity, then accepting dual-clutch risk on a truck they never load. Another common error is ignoring the 2022 turbo's TCM update history. A verbal 'it's all up to date' from a dealer is worthless—get repair orders in writing. Prioritize documented maintenance over a low sticker price.

Related questions

Which Santa Cruz model year should I avoid?

No year is disqualifying, but a 2022 turbo without documented TCM software updates and cleared recalls carries the most risk. The dual-clutch hesitation complaints concentrate in launch builds. With repair orders proving the updates were applied, a 2022 turbo becomes a reasonable value buy.

Is the XRT worth the premium over a standard 2025?

If you drive gravel roads, forest-service two-tracks, or snow regularly, yes—the all-terrain tires and improved approach angles are real. If you want the look without the use case, a standard 2025 turbo saves money and rides better on pavement with quieter highway tires.

Can the base 2.5L Santa Cruz tow a camper?

A small teardrop or pop-up, yes—the base truck is rated around 3,500 pounds. Anything approaching a conventional travel trailer needs the turbo's 5,000-pound rating, and even then you are near the ceiling. Weigh the loaded trailer, not the dry weight.

Does the 2025 refresh change the engines?

No. Both the naturally aspirated 2.5L and the 281-hp 2.5L turbo carry over. The refresh is interior, exterior, trim lineup, and transmission calibration. If your priority is purely powertrain, a 2024 turbo delivers nearly the same driving experience for meaningfully less money.

How does the Santa Cruz compare to the Ford Maverick?

The Santa Cruz offers a more refined interior, better ride quality, and a stronger turbo engine. The Maverick is cheaper and offers a hybrid for far better fuel economy. The Santa Cruz drives like a car-based SUV with a bed; the Maverick reads as a more conventional compact pickup.

Is the 2025 refresh worth paying up for?

Yes if you want current technology and the polished cabin—physical climate controls, the dual-screen layout, and retuned transmission behavior are meaningful daily improvements. But a well-maintained 2023 or 2024 turbo at a significant discount remains the better value buy for anyone whose priority is capability per dollar.

What are the most commonly reported Santa Cruz problems?

Dual-clutch jerkiness at low speeds on early 2022 turbo trucks is the headline complaint. Owners have also reported infotainment glitches and minor interior trim rattles. Hyundai issued software updates and recalls covering several items, so verifying service history and recall completion by VIN is the single most important pre-purchase step.

Does the Santa Cruz hold its value?

Resale has been decent rather than exceptional, tracking close to the Tucson and landing between compact SUVs and traditional pickups. The 2022–2023 years absorbed the steepest depreciation. The 2025 refresh holds value better thanks to the updated cabin and expanded trim lineup.

FAQ

Is the Hyundai Santa Cruz reliable long-term?

Long-term data remains limited because the model launched for 2022 and high-mileage examples past 100,000 miles are still rare. Early indications are that the naturally aspirated 2.5L is solid, while the turbo's dual-clutch drew software and clutch-engagement complaints that Hyundai addressed through updates. Expect roughly average modern-Hyundai reliability.

Which Santa Cruz engine should I choose?

Choose the turbo if you tow near 5,000 pounds or want genuinely quick acceleration—it is the engine both enthusiasts and resale value reward. Choose the naturally aspirated 2.5L if you value the conventional automatic's predictability, lower running costs, and simpler out-of-warranty service. The base engine is adequate but feels underpowered when merging with a load.

Does the Santa Cruz hold its value?

Resale has been decent rather than exceptional, tracking close to the Tucson and landing between compact SUVs and traditional pickups. The 2022–2023 years absorbed the steepest depreciation. The 2025 refresh holds value better thanks to the updated cabin and expanded trim lineup, which is part of why the 2023 reads as the stronger value on a used lot.

What are the most commonly reported Santa Cruz problems?

Dual-clutch jerkiness at low speeds on early 2022 turbo trucks is the headline complaint. Owners have also reported infotainment glitches and minor interior trim rattles. Hyundai issued software updates and recalls covering several items, so verifying service history and recall completion by VIN is the single most important pre-purchase step.

How does the Santa Cruz compare to the Ford Maverick?

The Santa Cruz offers a more refined interior, better ride quality, and a stronger turbo engine. The Maverick is cheaper and offers a hybrid for far better fuel economy. The Santa Cruz drives like a car-based SUV with a bed; the Maverick reads as a more conventional compact pickup. Pick on fuel economy versus refinement.

Is the 2025 refresh worth paying up for?

Yes if you want current technology and the polished cabin—physical climate controls, the dual-screen layout, and retuned transmission behavior are meaningful daily improvements. But a well-maintained 2023 or 2024 turbo at a significant discount remains the better value buy for anyone whose priority is capability per dollar.

What should I inspect before buying a used Santa Cruz?

Run the VIN through both Hyundai and NHTSA recall databases. Ask for repair orders proving TCM updates on any turbo. Confirm the drivetrain (FWD vs. AWD) from build data, not the seller. Exercise the bed trunk and drain plug. Test infotainment with CarPlay/Android Auto. Listen for interior rattles on rough pavement.

Is the 2022 Santa Cruz a good buy?

The 2022 base 2.5L with the conventional automatic is a solid, low-risk choice. The 2022 turbo, especially Limited or SEL Premium, is only a good buy if you have documented TCM software updates and cleared recalls. Without that paperwork, the launch-year dual-clutch risk makes it a gamble at any price.

What is the best value Santa Cruz trim?

The 2023 SEL Premium turbo is the best value overall. It offers the full 281-hp turbo, standard AWD, 5,000-pound towing, and leather/ventilated seats at a used price thousands below new. For a base-engine buyer, the 2024 SEL with the 2.5L and conventional automatic is the most worry-free recent build.

How much can a Santa Cruz tow?

The turbocharged 2.5L is rated to tow about 5,000 pounds. The naturally aspirated 2.5L is limited to roughly 3,500 pounds. Always verify the specific trim and drivetrain, as listings sometimes incorrectly claim the higher rating on base trucks. Weigh the loaded trailer, not dry weight.

Sources

• https://www.hyundaiusa.com/us/en/vehicles/santa-cruz
• https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
• https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.shtml
• https://www.edmunds.com/hyundai/santa-cruz/
• https://www.kbb.com/hyundai/santa-cruz/
• https://www.caranddriver.com/hyundai/santa-cruz
• https://www.motortrend.com/cars/hyundai/santa-cruz/
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyundai_Santa_Cruz
• https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/santa-cruz/

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