
Recently, the Korean car manufacturer has significantly expanded its line of cars, entering the fight for new market segments. We noticed interest in the pickup class from the 2015 exhibition in Detroit, where the company presented the Santa Cruz concept, which, by the way, was quite successful.
Now the automaker is releasing a new Hyundai Santa Cruz with a signature design in the style of the latest generation Tucson. By the way, it is built on its basis, which means that buyers can count on a similar list of options and price.I got the pickup trucka double cab, convenient for traveling with children and a fairly large body, which provides enough space for a reasonable amount of luggage or equipment, and the metal side will ensure its safety and reliability. In addition, among the interesting features of the Santa Cruz is a hidden storage compartment with a lock, built into the underground luggage compartment, similar to the one in the Honda Ridgeline.

Four-doorthe pickup has a length of 4971 mm, which is significantly shorter than its closest competitors in the form of Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado with their 5390 and 5403 mm, respectively. Thus, in terms of size, this "small" has no competitors. Although it is difficult to call it such, given the length, which is similar to the BMW X7.
Externally, it is similar to the latest Tucson and received many features and solutions from it, including a stepped radiator grille with integrateddaytime running lights, the shape of the front bumper and low headlights. On the side, you can see the round wheel arches, which are well fitted with 20-inch wheels with an original pattern that resembles a star.

On the rear bumperyou can spot the Chevy Colorado-like steps, as well as the large embossed model name, done in the style of old pickups. The rear optics stand out from the crowd and look extremely unusual compared to competitors. In the body, the manufacturer has placed a hidden underground in addition to the main space, where there is a storage box and a 110 Volt outlet, which will be a significant plus for many buyers. But there are such hidden places in the cabin. You can fold down the rear seat and access thea hidden niche, located along the entire length of the second row.

Interioralso incorporated the latest developments and design of the manufacturer and looks nice. In the basic configuration, an 8-inch multimedia screen is available to you, which satisfies the basic tasks, and for an additional fee you can install an enlarged touch screen of 10.3 inches. Alsofrom options can be obtainedleather seats with power and ventilation (front), sunroof, adaptive cruise control and remote start function.

As for power units, the Hyundai Santa Cruz received a basic 2.5-liter 4-cylinder in-line engine with 190 hp. with an 8-speed automatic transmission that works with front-wheel drive, just like the 2022 Tucson. In this version, the maximum towing capacity is claimed at 3,500 pounds.
A more productive version with a 2.5-liter turbo four with 275 hp is optionally available. and an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. This model will be able to tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The four-wheel drive system has an inter-axle differential capable of distributing the torque between the axles depending on the conditions and the driver's driving style. Control modes include:
- Normal
- Smart
- Sport
The latter can transmit up to half of the torque to the rear axle, although in most cases the car will use only front-wheel drive, providing effective fuel economy.
From intelligent security featuresthis pickup includes an automatic emergency braking system with pedestrian detection and active lane control, and blind spot monitors and cameras, as well as a surround view system, are available as options.

Outputproduction of the first production models began in June 2021 in the state of Alabama, USA.PriceSanta Cruz 2022 beginsfrom 25,200 dollarsin the basic version (SE). There are 5 trim levels to choose from (SE, SEL, SEL Activity, SEL Premium, and Limited, the prices of which start at $25,200, $28,400, $31,650, $36,870, and $40,900, respectively).