2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited vs 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave
On paper, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited wins on $9,250 less, 3 MPG better, 51 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $9,250 price gap, 281 vs 285 hp, 22 vs 19 MPG.
The Santa Cruz Limited leads on $9,250 less, 3 MPG better. The Gladiator Mojave leads on 22.3″ longer. 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 | 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $42,750 | $52,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 3.6L V6 |
| Horsepower | 281 hp | 285 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 17 |
| Highway MPG | 27 | 22 |
| Combined MPG | 22 | 19 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 22.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $2,300/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,295 lbs | 5,004 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 118.3" | 137.3" |
| Length | 195.7" | 218.0" |
| Width | 75.0" | 73.8" |
| Height | 66.9" | 76.1" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | Crew Cab | Crew Cab |
| 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 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited starts at $42,750, $9,250 less than the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave at $52,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $163/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 $9,250 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $302/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave?
The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave 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 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited rates 22 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited or 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave?
The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave produces 285 hp, 4 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 260 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 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave uses a 3.6L V6. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited, 4WD on the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited bigger than the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave?
The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave is 22.3″ longer at 218.0″ vs 195.7″. The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave has a 19.0″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited and 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited comes with AWD, while the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave 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 Jeep Gladiator 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, Jeep trims, Jeep Gladiator trims
How the Santa Cruz and Gladiator Stack Up
Two compact trucks built for work and weekend. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited ($42,750) and 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave ($52,000) take different approaches to the same job. The $9,250 gap adds up to $163/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Santa Cruz vs Gladiator
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave uses a 3.6L V6. The 4 hp difference (285 vs 281) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited also delivers 51 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 260), which matters for trailer stability and pulling heavy loads up grades. Drivetrains differ: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited, 4WD on the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited saves roughly $302/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,510. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave is 22.3″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave has a 19.0″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave weighs 709 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited when you want to keep $9,250 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo. At $163/month more, the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave 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 Jeep or any dealership.