May 22, 2024
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz: Blurring the Lines Between SUV and Truck
Image via hyundaiusa.com

If you’re having difficulty deciding between an SUV and a truck, you should probably have a close look at the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz because it offers the best of both. It’s even based on Hyundai’s Tucson SUV. However, it’s a good enough truck to be one of only two Compact Pickups on Car and Driver’s 2024 Editors’ Choice list.

Design

The four doors and two rows of seats on the 2024 Santa Cruz make it easy to haul the family around. The cargo bed is about four feet long, big enough for everyday truck activities or adventuring in the great outdoors. Being a bit shorter than regular mid-sized pickups isn’t a disadvantage; that only makes the Santa Cruz easier to drive and park around town. It can still tow up to 3,500 pounds.

With an edgy grille, 18-inch alloy wheels, and angled lines, the 2024 Santa Cruz certainly has one of the snazziest-looking exteriors among its peers. It also has one of the nicest interiors among both compact and mid-sized pickups thanks to Hyundai’s knack for making cabins look and feel more upscale than you’d expect. Better yet, comfort is not sacrificed for appearance. Drivers will enjoy the six-way adjustable driver’s seat.

Performance

The base model Santa Cruz has a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine with eight-speed automatic transmission. A self-leveling rear suspension and front-wheel drive are standard, but all-wheel drive is available. Drive Mode Select is also standard on the 2024 Santa Cruz. It offers three modes.

Normal

This is the mode your truck defaults to whenever you start your engine. It provides normal performance without changing any driving dynamics.

Eco

This mode helps you achieve maximum range by reducing fuel consumption. It’s the one you want for road trips.

Sport

When you’re in the mood for a livelier driving experience, Sport mode can increase precision by delivering greater responsiveness from the engine and steering wheel.

Technology

The 2024 Santa Cruz has a 4.2-inch gauge cluster, two front USB ports, and an 8-inch touchscreen display for its infotainment system. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard, as is hands-free wireless audio streaming via Bluetooth.

Safety

It’s not surprising the 2024 Santa Cruz has a perfect 5-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Even the base model has a long list of standard safety features, including:

  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection
  • Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
  • Lane Keeping Assist
  • Lane Following Assist
  • Driver Attention Warning
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
  • Safe Exit Warning
  • Rear Occupant Alert

Swing by Oxendale Hyundai in Flagstaff, AZ to explore all the 2024 Santa Cruz can offer. Or contact us at 928-774-3200. Our staff will be happy to assist you in any way we can.