[ad_1]
The newcomer to the compact pickup segment, the Hyundai Santa Cruz, has gotten an early makeover for its 2025 model which was introduced to the public at the 2024 New York International Auto Show. The debut comes only four years after the model’s initial introduction in 2021.
This mid-cycle refresh includes updated exterior styling featuring fresh headlight designs, a new grille, and an added off-road edge with increased ground clearance in the XRT trim. This trim level enhances its rugged appearance with a unique grille design, front tow hooks, 18-inch off-road wheels, all-terrain tires, and a surrounding camera system. Other 2025 models also benefit from new wheel designs and daytime running lights complementing their restyled fronts.
In addition to exterior changes, the Santa Cruz introduces two new paint options, Rockwood Green and Caynon Red, and a new Medium Gray interior color choice.
Inside, a new sleek curved panoramic infotainment display takes center stage, reminiscent of the systems in Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 and the rejuvenated Kona, optionally pairing a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The 2025 Santa Cruz also integrates updated climate controls, a newly designed steering wheel, a rear center armrest complete with cupholders, and new rear air vents. Most notably, the return of physical buttons and knobs for the audio and climate systems has been welcomed by enthusiasts.
Technological improvements across all trim levels include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air updates, a biometric fingerprint scanner, Hyundai’s in-car payment service known as Hyundai Pay, Forward Attention Warning, and additional USB-C charging ports. Enhanced driving features such as a towing-specific drive mode have been added to trims equipped with the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine.
No updates have been made to the powertrain options which carry over from the original model. The standard Santa Cruz model maintains a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine outputting 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged version upgrades performance to 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, along with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Production of the 2025 Santa Cruz will continue at Hyundai’s Alabama manufacturing facility, and the vehicle is anticipated to hit the market in the summer.
Have any tips? They can be sent to tips@thedrive.com
[ad_2]
FAQs about the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
What are the new exterior colors for the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz?
The 2025 Santa Cruz offers two new exterior color options: Rockwood Green and Caynon Red.
Does the 2025 Santa Cruz have new tech features?
Yes, the 2025 model comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air updates, Hyundai Pay, a fingerprint scanner, Forward Attention Warning, and more USB-C ports.
Are there any changes to the Santa Cruz’s powertrain for 2025?
No, the powertrain options remain the same as the 2021 model, with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder and an available 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
When will the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz go on sale?
The 2025 Santa Cruz is expected to go on sale in the summer.
Will physical buttons and knobs be available in the 2025 model?
Yes, Hyundai has reintroduced physical buttons and knobs for the climate and audio controls in the 2025 Santa Cruz.
Conclusion
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz presents a significant update to Hyundai’s entry in the compact pickup truck category. With a refreshed exterior design, updated interior technology, and refocus on user-friendly controls, the new Santa Cruz blends modern features with an appreciation for traditional tactile feedback. Hyundai’s commitment to this model’s development underscores its confidence in the compact truck market and caters to consumer desires for tech-forward yet practical vehicles. Interested buyers and Hyundai enthusiasts can expect its arrival in the forthcoming summer season.
