2026 Ford Ranger Lariat vs 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited
14.9″ longer vs $4,505 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 21 vs 22 MPG.
The Ranger Lariat leads on 14.9″ longer. The Santa Cruz Limited leads on $4,505 less. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 | 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat | 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $47,255 | $42,750 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.3L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | No published data | 281 hp |
| Torque | No published data | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 22 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.0 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,415 lbs | 4,295 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 128.7" | 118.3" |
| Length | 210.6" | 195.7" |
| Width | 75.5" | 75.0" |
| Height | 74.4" | 66.9" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | Crew Cab | Crew Cab |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat and 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited starts at $42,750, $4,505 less than the 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat at $47,255. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $79/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat?
The 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat is the stronger pick when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,505 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $91/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat or 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited rates 22 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Is the 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat bigger than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited?
The 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat is 14.9″ longer at 210.6″ vs 195.7″. The 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat has a 10.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat and 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat comes with 4WD, while the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited uses AWD. 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 Ford Ranger comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Santa Cruz offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Ford trims, Ford Ranger trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Santa Cruz trims
The Ranger–Santa Cruz Decision
Truck buyers cross-shopping the Ranger and Santa Cruz are comparing more than price. Bed size, powertrain, and tow rating all factor in. The $-4,505 gap adds up to $79/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat runs a 2.3L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ: 4WD on the 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat, AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited saves roughly $91/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $455.
Living With the Ranger vs the Santa Cruz
The 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat is 14.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat has a 10.4″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Ford Ranger Lariat when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo. Choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited when you want to keep $4,505 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited 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 Ford or Hyundai or any dealership.