The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a unique proposition in the pickup segment, combining the practicality of a truck with the sophistication of an SUV. This Sport Adventure Vehicle is designed for those who desire versatility, style, and performance, packaged in a vehicle that can handle both urban and off-road adventures in, and around, Mississauga.
Fuel Economy and Towing Capacity
One of the Santa Cruz's standout features is its impressive balance of fuel economy and towing prowess. With fuel consumption rates of 12.2L/100 km in the city, 8.7L/100 km on the highway, and a combined 10.6L/100 km, the 2024 Santa Cruz is more efficient than any other vehicle with a box in the back on the market today. These figures are notable for a vehicle that also offers a substantial towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs. This combination of efficiency and power makes the Santa Cruz an excellent choice for those who need a vehicle that can navigate city streets with ease while being ready for weekend getaways or hauling needs.
Exterior Design and Utility
The exterior of the 2024 Santa Cruz reflects a contemporary approach to pickup design. It leverages its compact dimensions to provide excellent maneuverability, particularly in urban settings. The modern design is complemented by 20-inch alloy wheels, manual sliding rear glass, stylish LED tail lights, and hidden LED daytime running lights, which not only enhance its visual appeal but also contribute to its functional capabilities. The Santa Cruz is a vehicle that looks equally at home in the city as it does on rugged terrain.
Cargo Space and Versatility
The Santa Cruz redefines cargo handling in pickups with its versatile and innovative features. The vehicle is equipped with an integrated sliding and lockable tonneau cover, designed for both security and ease of access. It also includes a lockable under-bed waterproof storage compartment, perfect for storing valuable tools or gear safely. LED bed lighting and an adjustable rail and cleat system with six tie-down points provide flexibility and convenience for various cargo needs. The presence of a 115 V open-bed outlet and an adjustable tailgate with a two-tiered shelf system further enhance its utility, making it a practical choice for diverse carrying requirements.
Interior Comfort and Ergonomics
The interior of the Santa Cruz is a testament to Hyundai's commitment to comfort and driver-focused ergonomics. The cabin features 60/40 fold-up rear-seat cushions, heated and ventilated front seats, and a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, ensuring comfort in various driving conditions. The 8-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power sunroof add to the premium feel of the interior. These features are designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for both the driver and passengers, regardless of the journey's length or destination.
Advanced Technology and Connectivity
The Santa Cruz is at the forefront of automotive technology, featuring a suite of advanced systems to enhance the driving experience. The vehicle includes a 10.25" full digital instrument cluster, which displays critical vehicle information through rich, colorful graphics that change based on the selected drive mode. The interior ambient lighting and a 10.25" touch-screen navigation system add to the cabin's high-tech ambiance. For audiophiles, the available Bose premium sound system delivers rich sound quality, making every journey a musical delight.
Connectivity is a key aspect of the Santa Cruz, with standard wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration of smartphones for access to apps, music, and navigation. The Bluelink connected vehicle system keeps the driver connected with their Hyundai via a smartphone app, offering features like remote lock/unlock and engine start. The available wireless charging pad adds to the convenience, enabling cable-free charging of compatible smartphones.
Performance and Drive Experience
Under the hood, the Santa Cruz is powered by a standard 2.5L Turbocharged engine, boasting 281 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine is paired with a wet 8-speed dual clutch transmission, enhancing the driving experience with efficient power delivery and responsive control. The addition of steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters allows for manual shifting, giving the driver more control and a more engaging driving experience.
Drive Mode Select further tailors the driving experience to the driver's preferences, with modes like Normal for relaxed driving, Sport for a more responsive and agile feel, and Smart, which automatically adjusts settings based on driving style. This flexibility ensures that the Santa Cruz can adapt to various driving scenarios, providing an optimized driving experience whether in the city or on a trail.
All-Wheel Drive and Terrain Control
The HTRAC All-Wheel Drive system in the Santa Cruz enhances handling, performance, and traction, making it well-suited for diverse driving conditions. The system includes multi-terrain control modes such as Snow, Mud, and Sand, allowing the driver to select the appropriate setting for optimal traction and control. These specialized algorithms ensure that the vehicle can confidently tackle different terrains, from loose sand and deep gravel to snow-covered roads and uneven terrain.
Unique Safety Features… for a Pickup
Safety is paramount in the Santa Cruz, with the Hyundai SmartSense suite offering a range of advanced safety technologies. These include features like autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, providing added peace of mind for the driver and passengers.
The core of the Santa Cruz is built around the SUPERSTRUCTURE, a platform using Advanced High-Strength Steel for exceptional rigidity and strength. In the event of a collision, the SUPERSTRUCTURE is designed to absorb and redirect harmful energy away from the passenger compartment, offering superior protection.
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz stands as a versatile and innovative option in the pickup market. With its combination of fuel efficiency, towing capacity, advanced technology, comfortable interior, and robust safety features, it caters to a wide range of needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a vehicle for daily urban use, weekend adventures, or a mix of both, the Santa Cruz is equipped to handle it all, making it an excellent choice for those in need of a versatile and capable pickup that drives like a regular vehicle and feels like one too.