2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited vs 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited
On paper, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited wins on $950 less, 2 MPG better. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $950 price gap, 281 vs 281 hp, 22 vs 20 MPG.
The Santa Cruz Limited leads on $950 less, 2 MPG better. The spec table compares 2 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 2 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 | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $42,750 | $43,700 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 281 hp | 281 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 18 |
| Highway MPG | 27 | 25 |
| Combined MPG | 22 | 20 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,295 lbs | 4,191 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 118.3" | 118.3" |
| Length | 195.7" | 195.7" |
| Width | 75.0" | 75.0" |
| Height | 66.9" | 66.9" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | Crew Cab | Crew Cab |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | TSP |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited and 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited starts at $42,750, $950 less than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited at $43,700. 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 you want to keep $950 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $191/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited is the stronger pick when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the compact truck segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited or 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited rates 22 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited or 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited?
Both produce 281 hp.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited?
Both measure 195.7″ in overall length.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Santa Cruz trims
Santa Cruz vs Santa Cruz: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited and 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited compete directly in the compact truck segment, where towing capacity, payload, and cab comfort separate the contenders. The $950 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
Both run the same 2.5L I4 Turbo engine. Both produce 281 hp. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Santa Cruz vs Santa Cruz
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited saves roughly $191/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $955. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited when you want to keep $950 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the compact truck segment. At $17/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 any dealership.