2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited vs 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X
4 mpg better and 30 more lb-ft torque vs $980 less and 29 more hp. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 281 vs 310 hp, 22 vs 18 MPG.
The Santa Cruz Limited leads on 4 MPG better, 30 more lb-ft torque. The Frontier PRO-4X leads on $980 less, 29 more hp. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 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 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $42,750 | $41,770 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 3.8L V6 |
| Horsepower | 281 hp | 310 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 16 |
| Highway MPG | 27 | 20 |
| Combined MPG | 22 | 18 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 21.0 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,295 lbs | 4,759 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 118.3" | 126.0" |
| Length | 195.7" | 210.2" |
| Width | 75.0" | 74.7" |
| Height | 66.9" | 72.9" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | Crew Cab | Crew Cab |
| Bed Length | No published data | 5.0 ft |
| 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 | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited and 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X?
The 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X starts at $41,770, $980 less than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited at $42,750. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $17/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 lower running costs matter to you, roughly $424/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver; 30 lb-ft more torque for pulling trailers and heavy loads.
Who should choose the 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X?
The 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X is the stronger pick when you want to keep $980 in your pocket and the 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X covers your needs; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited or 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited rates 22 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited or 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X?
The 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X produces 310 hp, 29 more than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited at 281 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 281 lb-ft. That torque gap matters most when towing or hauling heavy loads. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X uses a 3.8L V6. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited, 4WD on the 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited bigger than the 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X?
The 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X is 14.5″ longer at 210.2″ vs 195.7″. The 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X has a 7.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited and 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited comes with AWD, while the 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X 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 Nissan Frontier 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, Nissan trims, Nissan Frontier trims
Santa Cruz vs Frontier: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited and 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X compete directly in the compact truck segment, where towing capacity, payload, and cab comfort separate the contenders. The $-980 gap is about $17/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X uses a 3.8L V6. The 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X has 29 more hp (310 vs 281), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited also delivers 30 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 281), which matters for trailer stability and pulling heavy loads up grades. Drivetrains differ: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited, 4WD on the 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X.
Running Costs: Santa Cruz vs Frontier
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited saves roughly $424/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,120.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X is 14.5″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X has a 7.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X weighs 464 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $424/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X when you want to keep $980 in your pocket and the 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X covers your needs.
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 Nissan or any dealership.