Hyundai just launched their first pickup truck in the Santa Cruz. Dubbed as a “Sport Adventure Vehicle”, it’s not meant to compete against the larger pickup trucks we’re familiar with. Instead, they’re set on making an entirely new segment.
The US might have bigger pickup trucks, but Santa Cruz is still a smaller brother even compared to what we have here in the country. Against the Hilux Conquest for example, the Santa Cruz is 14 inches shorter, 6 inches lower, and 3.2 inches shorter on the wheelbase. The decrease in size makes it easier to maneuver and park inside the city, making it very apt for people who want the open bed versatility but don’t want the cumbersome size of the pickups currently in the market.
There’s also a few tricks at the back. The bed has a built-in locking cover, a hidden storage compartment, optional bed extension accessories, and integrated corner bumper steps. You wouldn’t have to worry about random people taking things at the back during a red light on an intersection.
It might have a friendly name, but the Santa Cruz looks futuristic and menacing. It has the same fascia that Hyundai uses on its newest models, featuring an LED-lighting array that matches the look of the grille itself. The A-pillar is sleeker while the C-pillar is slanted, unlike typical SUVs, presenting a more modern approach to the pickup design. The back is very distinct with its horizontal T-shape taillights and the bold name stamped at the tailgate.
Open the door and you’ll see the same interior that Hyundai used on the latest Tucson. The dashboard has a two-tier design that spreads out to the door panels from the center console, simulating two cockpits for the front passengers. At the center of the dash is an 8-inch touchscreen with the option for the 10-inch ‘edgeless screen’, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, and wireless charger, while the driver has the option for a 10-inch full-digital screen. Audio is secured by Bose, while in-cabin storage is maximized with bins under the seats.
Powering this compact pickup is a choice between two gas engines. First is a 2.5L engine that produces around 190 hp and 244 Nm of torque, paired to an 8-speed automatic. Alternative to that would be the 2.5L turbo engine with 275 horsepower and 420 Nm of torque, coupled to an 8-speed dual clutch transmission with paddle shifters. The NA engine is capable of towing around 1.5 ton while the turbo-pairing can haul around 2.2 tons. All trims also come with Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel drive system that has multiple-modes for versatility in many driving conditions.
“Santa Cruz, with its bold styling, breaks open all new segment territory, both for Hyundai and the industry as a whole,” said Jose Munoz, President and CEO of Hyundai North America. “Our customers will wonder just how they managed before owning one.”
The Santa Cruz is currently only available for the North American market and will be made in a factory there. Hyundai North America is confident that it will be a success there and if it is, Hyundai might consider taking it to other regions. With more Filipinos participating in more outdoor activities like hiking and glamping, having a compact pickup might be the right fit.
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