2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited vs 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat
$4,505 less vs 14.9″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $4,505 price gap, 22 vs 22 MPG.
The Santa Cruz Limited leads on $4,505 less. The Ranger Lariat leads on 14.9″ longer. The spec table compares 3 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 3 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited | 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $42,750 | $47,255 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.3L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 281 hp | No published data |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | No published data |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | 27 | 26 |
| Combined MPG | 22 | 22 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 18.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $2,000/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,295 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 118.3" | 128.7" |
| Length | 195.7" | 210.6" |
| Width | 75.0" | 75.5" |
| Height | 66.9" | 74.4" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | Crew Cab | Crew Cab |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited and 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited starts at $42,750, $4,505 less than the 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat at $47,255. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $79/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,505 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited covers your needs; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat?
The 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat is the stronger pick when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited or 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat?
Both achieve 22 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited bigger than the 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat?
The 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat is 14.9″ longer at 210.6″ vs 195.7″. The 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat has a 10.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited and 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited comes with AWD, while the 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat uses 4WD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Santa Cruz comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Ford Ranger offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Santa Cruz trims, Ford trims, Ford Ranger trims
Santa Cruz vs Ranger: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited and 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat compete directly in the compact truck segment, where towing capacity, payload, and cab comfort separate the contenders. The $4,505 gap adds up to $79/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat uses a 2.3L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited, 4WD on the 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat.
Running Costs: Santa Cruz vs Ranger
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat is 14.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat has a 10.4″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited when you want to keep $4,505 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo. At $79/month more, the 2025 Ford Ranger Lariat needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Hyundai or Ford or any dealership.