2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL vs 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL
On paper, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL wins on $950 less. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $950 price gap, 191 vs 191 hp, 24 vs 24 MPG.
The Santa Cruz SEL leads on $950 less. The spec table compares 1 specification head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 1 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 SEL | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,950 | $32,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,107 lbs | 3,948 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 SEL and 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL starts at $31,950, $950 less than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL at $32,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $16/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $950 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL is the stronger pick when the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL or 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL?
Both achieve 24 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL or 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL?
Both produce 191 hp.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL?
Both measure 195.7″ in overall length.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Santa Cruz trims
How the Santa Cruz and Santa Cruz Stack Up
Two compact trucks built for work and weekend. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL ($31,950) and 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL ($32,900) take different approaches to the same job. The $950 gap is about $16/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Santa Cruz vs Santa Cruz
Both run the same 2.5L I4 engine. Both produce 191 hp. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL when you want to keep $950 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL when the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. At $16/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.