Hyundai has unveiled the latest iteration of its Santa Cruz model, slated for release as the 2025 model year. The new Hyundai Santa Cruz features a subtle exterior redesign, improved cockpit functionality and an enhanced XRT trim that offers more than just cosmetic changes.
The exterior of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz receives a facelift that introduces a new grille with rectangular cutouts, a revamped lower fascia, and straight lines and symmetrical shapes. These changes are complemented by new wheel designs and a special rear fascia exclusive to the XRT trim. The design draws inspiration from the Ford Maverick's squarish nose, indicating Hyundai's intent to appeal to truck enthusiasts. The XRT trim further distinguishes itself with all-terrain tires, a unique grille pattern, specific front and rear fascias, red tow hooks, and 18-inch wheels designed exclusively for this model.
2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT
Inside, the Santa Cruz boasts significant upgrades aimed at enhancing driver and passenger experience. A curved panoramic screen merges the driver and center infotainment displays into one seamless unit up to 12.3 inches wide. Other interior highlights include a redesigned dash with additional storage above the glove box, tactile controls for audio and climate settings, a prominent shift stalk for transmission control, and a steering wheel reminiscent of the Tucson model. Furthermore, technology upgrades such as over-the-air software updates, wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay/Android Auto across all trims, Bluelink+ connected car technology, Hyundai Pay system for in-car payments, Digital Key 2 Touch access system, Forward Attention Warning safety feature, and standard surround-view and blind-spot cameras in the XRT add modern convenience and safety.
2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
The powertrain options for the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz remain unchanged from its predecessors but are noteworthy nonetheless. It continues to offer two engine choices: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations; and a more powerful 2.5-liter turbo engine generating 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The turbo engine also introduces a new towing mode capable of handling loads up to 5,000 pounds and is available in XRT and Limited trims.
Prospective buyers can expect the updated Santa Cruz at dealerships in summer 2025. While pricing details will be announced closer to its sale date, previous models ranged from $28,275 for base configurations to $42,695 for top-tier options.
Source: Hyundai
