The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz brings along minimal changes to talk about. However, it ticks all the right boxes that the previous model years stood for. In 2022, Santa Cruz tried to snatch a slice of pie from pickup trucks like the Ford Maverick, Chevrolet Colorado, Honda Ridgeline, and Toyota Tacoma, to name a few. However, the Santa Cruz has always been more of an SUV than an all-around full-fledged pickup truck.
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz comes in SE, SEL, Night, XRT, and Limited trims. The prices of these trims are $26,650, $29,400, $38,210, $39,850, and $41,070, respectively. The above-mentioned prices exclude destination charges of $1,335. So, as compared to the previous model year, the base MSRP has increased by $950. For that price, you get LED Projecor headlamps, haptic steering feedback for lane keep assist, and blind spot avoidance as standard. Except for the base SE trim, dual-zone climate control and an auto defogger are standard.
Even in terms of practicality, the rivals have a clear advantage. The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE and SEL trims are powered by a 2.5-liter inline-four engine with 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. The 2024 Santa Cruz Limited, XRT, and Night trims get the same engine in turbocharged state, offering 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. Obviously, the turbocharged engine is the livelier of the two. With the more powerful engine, the 2024 Santa Cruz can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz 0-60 times with the naturally-aspirated and turbocharged engines are 9.1 seconds and 6.0 seconds, respectively. The Santa Cruz 2024 model has not been rated by J.D. Power Consumer Rating, but the prebious model year scored an overall 80/100, which is very good. With no changes, the 2024 model is expected to follow in its footsteps. Even the five-year cost of ownership is bound to be similar.
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz can be equipped with AWD in the base SE trim by adding $1,500. For a limited period, the base SE trim can be financed for a low APR of just 2.99% for up to 48 months with no payments for 90 days. It can also be leased for a term of 36 months, with monthly payments of $331 per month and $3,699 due at the time of signing. Currently, up to the end of October 2023, Hyundai is offering a $500 Dealer Choice Cash as well. Stay tuned for a full, detailed review.
