There’s something about the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz that keeps people talking. Even though it retains most of its predecessor’s attributes, this impressive vehicle still blends SUV comfort with truck versatility in a unique package. This is what many city dwellers find ideal, especially when seeking light-duty utility. Built on the Tucson SUV platform, the Santa Cruz delivers a more refined and advanced driving experience than traditional pickups—without compromising hauling and towing capabilities. Interestingly, this vehicle offers impressive features you might want to check out.
What’s New for 2026?
As previously mentioned, there are no major upgrades or changes in the latest Santa Cruz. Its stylish refresh from last year remains in play and continues to deliver a thrilling driving experience. However, one notable update includes the discontinuation of the dark green interior color, which may not sit well with nature-loving drivers. While it’s not always about what’s new this year, the Santa Cruz has chosen to retain some of its best features, which drivers still find amazing.
Engine and Performance
Just like its predecessor, the 2026 Santa Cruz offers multiple engine options depending on the trim. Lower trims are powered by a 191-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, while higher trims like the XRT and Limited feature a punchy 281-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with 311 lb-ft of torque. For those interested in top-tier performance, comparisons can also be drawn with Hyundai’s reimagined fleet. Meanwhile, the turbocharged engine is paired with a dual-clutch transmission and comes standard with all-wheel drive, providing a smoother and more spirited urban drive.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy estimates from the EPA are still pending, but drivers can expect improved efficiency. While the 2025 model provided a solid benchmark, the turbocharged engine in the 2026 version is expected to achieve around 30 mpg on the highway. City ratings range between 18 and 22 mpg, depending on the configuration.
Interior and Tech
Hyundai elevates the interior of the Santa Cruz with premium-feeling materials, starting with a digital instrument cluster and a physical shifter. These thoughtful enhancements help avoid the modern pitfalls of overly complex controls. Higher trims feature a seamless dual 12.3-inch screen setup for infotainment and driver display. The base trim includes wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker stereo system, offering a balanced mix of comfort and convenience.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The latest Santa Cruz comes equipped with an extensive suite of safety technologies designed to keep drivers confident on the road. Standard features include:
- Lane-departure warning
- Lane-keeping assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Driver attention warning
- Adaptive cruise control
Looking for something smarter and more stylish? The 2026 Santa Cruz stands tall as one of the best choices you can make, proving itself a strong contender in the compact truck segment.
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