The 2023 Santa Cruz introduces a distinctive fusion, melding the qualities of a pickover, a small pickup, and a compact crossover. While it directly rivals the Ford Maverick and Honda Ridgeline, those with a penchant for crossovers might also venture into exploring substitutes like the Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma.
DESIGN
Here at Carfanaticsblog, we recently got the chance to take the 2023 Santa Cruz Limited AWD for a spin, showcasing its elegant Hampton Gray hue. The 2023 Santa Cruz flaunts a more elongated and robust frame, accentuated by its striking design elements like its bold headlight housings, defined wheel arches with black cladding, sturdy rocker panels, and a durable rear bumper step.
Catering to discerning tastes, the optional star-shaped 20-inch wheels offer a unique and alluring option. Furthermore, the functional appeal of the 4.5-foot bed at the back seamlessly amplifies the vehicle’s overall practicality, while the interior of the cabin reflects the welcoming design language of the Tucson, fostering a comfortable and reassuring atmosphere.
While the 10.3-inch touchscreen is undoubtedly impressive, the glossy black climate panel just below tends to reveal fingerprints easily, necessitating regular cleaning. Moreover, the upper dash seamlessly integrates a sleek strip of vents that gracefully curve into an ‘M’ shape, contributing to a seamless and cohesive design.
PERFORMANCE
The Santa Cruz we took for a spin was the top-tier Limited model in the lineup, boasting a robust 2.5-liter turbo engine and an advanced HTRAC all-wheel-drive system. During our drive, we encountered no major issues, with the power output exceeding expectations and the transmission operating flawlessly. The visibility also lived up to our expectations.
Despite the unconventional design of the steering wheel spokes, the lower part proved unexpectedly comfortable to rest a hand on, while the seats, given the $40,000 price tag, delivered a remarkably high level of comfort, further complemented by the considerate placement of cargo compartments near the driver’s seat.
Activating the sport mode heightened the engine’s responsiveness, further enhanced by the paddle shifters, leading to an unexpectedly satisfying experience that encouraged us to push the Santa Cruz’s capabilities. Quick gear shifts during overtaking maneuvers resulted in noticeable acceleration, propelling the compact truck forward with an exhilarating surge, ensuring agile handling through sharp turns.
With its dependable all-wheel-drive system, the Santa Cruz provided a comfortable journey at a commonly accepted pace, leading us to contemplate potential adjustments. The smooth gear shifts and remarkable turbo engine acceleration were standout features.
VERDICT
The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited AWD test vehicle we drove for a week came with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $40,320. Considering all expenses, the final cost of the test vehicle amounted to $41,810.
Compeition
Approaching the current automotive scene from a unique perspective, the Ford Maverick and the popular Tacoma have emerged as secondary players compared to the versatile Santa Cruz. With its impressive 37-mpg hybrid option, the Ford Maverick, unfortunately, is limited to front-wheel drive, setting it apart in the market.
Likewise drawing inspiration from the related Tucson, the Santa Cruz has the potential to take advantage of the increasing interest in hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, ultimately boosting its appeal and expanding its market presence.
Introducing a touch of variety, the sturdy Honda Ridgeline seamlessly transforms a crossover into a pickup, sharing the Santa Cruz’s smooth ride quality while highlighting additional utility, setting it apart in a unique way.
On the other hand, the redesigned Nissan Frontier, featuring a modern infotainment system and a strong V-6 engine, stays true to its truck-like identity, enhancing its overall appeal with a rugged charm.
