2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited vs 2025 Ram 1500 Limited
$32,405 less and 5 mpg better vs 259 more hp and 210 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $32,405 price gap, 281 vs 540 hp, 22 vs 17 MPG.
The Santa Cruz Limited leads on $32,405 less, 5 MPG better. The 1500 Limited leads on 259 more hp, 210 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 Ram 1500 Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $42,750 | $75,155 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 3.0L I6 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 281 hp | 540 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 521 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 15 |
| Highway MPG | 27 | 21 |
| Combined MPG | 22 | 17 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 33.0 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,295 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 118.3" | 144.5" |
| Length | 195.7" | 232.9" |
| Width | 75.0" | 82.1" |
| Height | 66.9" | 77.6" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | Crew Cab | Crew Cab |
| Bed Length | No published data | 5.6 ft |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited and 2025 Ram 1500 Limited?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited starts at $42,750, $32,405 less than the 2025 Ram 1500 Limited at $75,155. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $570/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 $32,405 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $562/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Ram 1500 Limited?
The 2025 Ram 1500 Limited is the stronger pick when you need the extra 259 hp for towing, hauling, or highway merging; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo; 210 lb-ft more torque for pulling trailers and heavy loads.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited or 2025 Ram 1500 Limited?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited rates 22 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited or 2025 Ram 1500 Limited?
The 2025 Ram 1500 Limited produces 540 hp, 259 more than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited at 281 hp. The 2025 Ram 1500 Limited also leads in torque at 521 lb-ft vs 311 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 Ram 1500 Limited uses a 3.0L I6 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited, 4WD on the 2025 Ram 1500 Limited.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited bigger than the 2025 Ram 1500 Limited?
The 2025 Ram 1500 Limited is 37.2″ longer at 232.9″ vs 195.7″. The 2025 Ram 1500 Limited has a 26.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited and 2025 Ram 1500 Limited have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited comes with AWD, while the 2025 Ram 1500 Limited 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 Ram 1500 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, Ram trims, Ram 1500 trims
Santa Cruz vs 1500: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited and 2025 Ram 1500 Limited compete directly in the compact truck segment, where towing capacity, payload, and cab comfort separate the contenders. The $32,405 gap adds up to $570/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 Ram 1500 Limited uses a 3.0L I6 Turbo. The 2025 Ram 1500 Limited has 259 more hp (540 vs 281). A gap that large affects towing confidence, highway merging, and how loaded the vehicle can feel before it struggles. The 2025 Ram 1500 Limited also delivers 210 more lb-ft of torque (521 vs 311), 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 Ram 1500 Limited.
Running Costs: Santa Cruz vs 1500
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited saves roughly $562/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,810. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Ram 1500 Limited is 37.2″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Ram 1500 Limited has a 26.2″ 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 $32,405 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Ram 1500 Limited when you need the extra 259 hp for towing, hauling, or highway merging. At $570/month more, the 2025 Ram 1500 Limited 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 Ram or any dealership.