2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE vs 2026 Ford Maverick XL
26 more lb-ft torque and awd vs $3,105 less and 15 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 191 vs 191 hp, 24 vs 39 MPG.
The Santa Cruz SE leads on 26 more lb-ft torque, AWD. The Maverick XL leads on $3,105 less, 15 MPG better. 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 | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE | 2026 Ford Maverick XL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,250 | $28,145 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 hybrid |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 155 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | electrically variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 42 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 35 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 39 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 13.8 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,922 lbs | 3,674 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 118.3" | 121.1" |
| Length | 195.7" | 199.8" |
| Width | 75.0" | 72.6" |
| Height | 66.7" | 68.8" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | Crew Cab | SuperCrew |
| 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/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE and 2026 Ford Maverick XL?
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL starts at $28,145, $3,105 less than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE at $31,250. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $54/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Maverick XL?
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,105 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Maverick XL covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $673/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE or 2026 Ford Maverick XL?
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL rates 39 combined MPG, 15 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE or 2026 Ford Maverick XL?
Both produce 191 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE also leads in torque at 181 lb-ft vs 155 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Ford Maverick XL uses a 2.5L I4 hybrid. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE, FWD on the 2026 Ford Maverick XL.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE bigger than the 2026 Ford Maverick XL?
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL is 4.1″ longer at 199.8″ vs 195.7″. The 2026 Ford Maverick XL has a 2.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE and 2026 Ford Maverick XL have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE comes with AWD, while the 2026 Ford Maverick XL uses FWD. 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 Ford Maverick 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, Ford trims, Ford Maverick trims
The Santa Cruz–Maverick Decision
Truck buyers cross-shopping the Santa Cruz and Maverick are comparing more than price. Bed size, powertrain, and tow rating all factor in. The $-3,105 gap adds up to $54/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 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Ford Maverick XL uses a 2.5L I4 hybrid. Both produce 191 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE comes with AWD; the 2026 Ford Maverick XL uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL saves roughly $673/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $3,365.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. Choose the 2026 Ford Maverick XL when you want to keep $3,105 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Maverick XL 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 Hyundai or Ford or any dealership.