2026 Toyota Tacoma SR vs 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE
37 more hp and 62 more lb-ft torque vs $5,195 less and 3 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 228 vs 191 hp, 21 vs 24 MPG.
The Tacoma SR leads on 37 more hp, 62 more lb-ft torque. The Santa Cruz SE leads on $5,195 less, 3 MPG better. 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 | 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR | 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,445 | $30,250 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 228 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 243 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.2 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,375 lbs | 3,922 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 131.9" | 118.3" |
| Length | 213.0" | 195.7" |
| Width | 76.9" | 75.0" |
| Height | 74.0" | 66.7" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | No published data | Crew Cab |
| Bed Length | 6.1 ft | No published data |
| 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 | 2yr/25k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR and 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE starts at $30,250, $5,195 less than the 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR at $35,445. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $91/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR?
The 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR is the stronger pick when you need the extra 37 hp for towing, hauling, or highway merging; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo; 62 lb-ft more torque for pulling trailers and heavy loads.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,195 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $250/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR or 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE rates 24 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR or 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE?
The 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR produces 228 hp, 37 more than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE at 191 hp. The 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR also leads in torque at 243 lb-ft vs 181 lb-ft. That torque gap matters most when towing or hauling heavy loads. The 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: 4WD on the 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR, AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE.
Is the 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR bigger than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE?
The 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR is 17.3″ longer at 213.0″ vs 195.7″. The 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR has a 13.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR and 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR comes with 4WD, while the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE 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 Toyota Tacoma 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: Toyota trims, Toyota Tacoma trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Santa Cruz trims
Tacoma vs Santa Cruz: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR and 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE compete directly in the midsize truck segment, where towing capacity, payload, and cab comfort separate the contenders. The $-5,195 gap adds up to $91/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE uses a 2.5L I4. The 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR has 37 more hp (228 vs 191), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR also delivers 62 more lb-ft of torque (243 vs 181), which matters for trailer stability and pulling heavy loads up grades. Drivetrains differ: 4WD on the 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR, AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE.
Running Costs: Tacoma vs Santa Cruz
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE saves roughly $250/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,250.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR is 17.3″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR has a 13.6″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR weighs 453 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR when you need the extra 37 hp for towing, hauling, or highway merging. Choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE when you want to keep $5,195 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE 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 Toyota or Hyundai or any dealership.