Hyundai has finally announced pricing for the 2022 Santa Cruz and it’s a bit of a bummer as the model starts at US$ 23,990 before a US$ 1,185 destination charge. While that’s not bad, the lifestyle pickup is significantly more expensive than the 2022 Ford Maverick which begins at US$ 19,995 and has a destination charge of US$ 1,495.
Putting that aside, the entry-level Santa Cruz SE has a 1219 mm composite bed with lockable underfloor storage. The model also has rear privacy glass, 18-inch alloy wheels and a power-locking tailgate with a remote opening function.
Moving inside, drivers will find air conditioning, power windows / locks, and a remote keyless entry system. Other highlights include a six-speaker audio system, a 4.2-inch multi-information display, and an 8-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. There are also a handful of driver assistance systems including High Beam Assist, Lane Keeping / Lane Following Assist and Intelligent Speed Limit Warning.
Motivation comes from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces an estimated 190+ hp and 244+ Nm of torque. It’s connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which sends power to the front wheels. However, an all-wheel drive system is available for an extra US$ 1,500.
Moving up the trim ladder is the US$ 27,190 Santa Cruz SEL. It gains heated front seats and an 8-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support. Buyers will also find heated side mirrors with turn signals, illuminated sunvisors, and a proximity key with a remote starter. The mid-level model also has Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist. Buyers can also opt for the US$ 3,270 Activity Package, which adds a sunroof, a tonneau cover and a sliding rear window. The package also includes LED lighting and a rail system for the bed. Other highlights include a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a wireless smartphone charger.
The US$ 35,680 Santa Cruz SEL Premium builds on this by adding LED headlights, digital key technology, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink. The model also has a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a dual-zone automatic climate control system.
However, the big news is a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that produces 275+ hp and 420+ Nm of torque. It’s connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and a standard all-wheel drive system. The engine also boosts the towing capacity from 1,588 kg to 2,268 kg. That brings us to the range-topping Limited, which starts at US$ 39,720 and is nearly as expensive as the 2022 Ram 1500 BackCountry Edition. It’s a luxury truck that features a unique exterior with a dark chrome grille, rain-sensing wipers and 20-inch alloy wheels.
The interior comes nicely equipped with heated / ventilated leather seats, a heated steering wheel and a larger 10.25-inch infotainment system with voice recognition technology. The model also has ambient lighting, rear air vents and a Bose premium audio system. Last but not least, there’s Highway Driving Assist, a Surround View Monitor, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist and Smart Cruise Control with a Stop/Start function.
The Santa Cruz will go on sale late this month and will be built in Montgomery, Alabama.
