2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
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Discover the New 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz at Gregory Hyundai
The new 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz combines the comfort and technology of an SUV with the open-bed versatility of a pickup. Its distinctive sport-adventure design makes it a practical choice for commuting, home projects, outdoor recreation, and weekend travel.
With five available trims—SE, SEL, SEL Activity, XRT, and Limited—the 2026 Santa Cruz offers configurations ranging from practical everyday transportation to turbocharged performance and premium comfort. Drivers can choose between a 191-horsepower 2.5L four-cylinder engine and an available 281-horsepower turbocharged 2.5L engine.
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Highlights
| Standard Engine | 2.5L GDI-MPI four-cylinder engine |
|---|---|
| Standard Engine Output | 191 horsepower and 181 lb.-ft. of torque |
| Available Turbocharged Engine | 2.5L turbocharged GDI-MPI four-cylinder engine |
| Turbocharged Engine Output | 281 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque |
| Standard Transmission | Eight-speed automatic transmission |
| Turbo Transmission | Eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive, available HTRAC all-wheel drive, or standard HTRAC all-wheel drive on XRT and Limited |
| Passenger Capacity | Five passengers |
| Maximum Available Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped |
| Available Trims | SE, SEL, SEL Activity, XRT, and Limited |
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Trim Comparison
Compare the primary performance, comfort, utility, and technology features available across the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz lineup.
| Feature | SE | SEL | SEL Activity | XRT | Limited |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L four-cylinder | 2.5L four-cylinder | 2.5L four-cylinder | 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder | 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 191 hp | 191 hp | 281 hp | 281 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb.-ft. | 181 lb.-ft. | 181 lb.-ft. | 311 lb.-ft. | 311 lb.-ft. |
| Drivetrain | FWD or available HTRAC AWD | FWD or available HTRAC AWD | FWD or available HTRAC AWD | HTRAC AWD | HTRAC AWD |
| Seating Material | Stain- and odor-resistant cloth | Stain- and odor-resistant cloth | Stain- and odor-resistant cloth | H-Tex trimmed seating | Leather-trimmed seating |
| Heated Front Seats | — | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Ventilated Front Seats | — | — | — | — | Standard |
| Power Driver’s Seat | — | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| 12.3-Inch Touchscreen | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard with navigation | Standard with navigation |
| 12.3-Inch Digital Instrument Cluster | — | — | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Wireless Device Charging | — | Available | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Integrated Tonneau Cover | — | Available | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Power Sunroof | — | Available | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Bose Premium Audio | — | — | — | — | Standard |
| Surround View Monitor | — | — | — | — | Standard |
| Best Suited For | Practical everyday utility | Added comfort and convenience | Outdoor recreation and cargo versatility | Turbocharged performance and rugged styling | Premium comfort and advanced technology |
Which 2026 Santa Cruz Trim Is Right for You?
| Your Priority | Recommended Trim | Why It May Be a Good Match |
|---|---|---|
| Core capability and everyday practicality | SE | The SE includes the 191-horsepower engine, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, an open bed with useful storage, and essential Hyundai SmartSense features. |
| More comfort for daily driving | SEL | The SEL adds heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, proximity key entry, remote start, roof rails, and additional driver-assistance technology. |
| Adventure-ready bed and cabin features | SEL Activity | The SEL Activity adds an integrated tonneau cover, power sunroof, digital instrument cluster, wireless charging, LED bed lighting, and additional cargo-bed conveniences. |
| Turbocharged power and rugged styling | XRT | The XRT combines the 281-horsepower turbocharged engine with standard HTRAC all-wheel drive, off-road-inspired styling, all-terrain capability, and useful towing equipment. |
| Premium comfort and advanced technology | Limited | The Limited adds leather seating, ventilated front seats, Bose premium audio, advanced camera views, parking assistance, and premium interior appointments. |
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE introduces drivers to the lineup with practical performance, a flexible five-passenger cabin, and an innovative open bed. Its naturally aspirated 2.5L four-cylinder engine produces 191 horsepower and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Front-wheel drive comes standard, while available HTRAC all-wheel drive provides additional traction for changing road and weather conditions. The SE also includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and several standard Hyundai SmartSense technologies.
Key Santa Cruz SE Features
- 2.5L GDI-MPI four-cylinder engine
- 191 horsepower
- 181 lb.-ft. of torque
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive or available HTRAC all-wheel drive
- Five-passenger seating
- Stain- and odor-resistant cloth seating surfaces
- 12.3-inch touchscreen display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Rearview Monitor with parking guidance
- Remote keyless entry
- Multi-function tailgate
- Lockable under-bed storage compartment
- Sidewall bed storage compartments
- Heavy-duty cargo D-rings
- Integrated rear bumper corner steps
- Trailer pre-wiring
- LED daytime running lights
The Santa Cruz SE is well suited to drivers who want flexible cargo capability, modern technology, and comfortable everyday driving in one distinctive vehicle.
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL builds on the SE with additional comfort, convenience, and driver-assistance features. It retains the 191-horsepower 2.5L engine and offers front-wheel drive or available HTRAC all-wheel drive.
Inside, heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat make daily travel more comfortable. Proximity key entry, push-button start, remote engine start, and dual automatic temperature control add convenience throughout the day.
Key Santa Cruz SEL Features
- 2.5L GDI-MPI four-cylinder engine
- 191 horsepower
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive or available HTRAC all-wheel drive
- Eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Power driver lumbar adjustment
- Heated front seats
- Stain- and odor-resistant cloth seating surfaces
- Dual automatic temperature control
- Rear air-conditioning vents
- Proximity key entry with push-button start
- Remote engine start
- Heated side mirrors
- Side mirrors with turn-signal indicators
- Roof rails
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Safe Exit Warning
The Santa Cruz SEL is a strong match for drivers who want added interior comfort and everyday convenience while retaining the practical utility of the Santa Cruz bed.
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL Activity
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL Activity is designed for drivers who want additional cargo-management features and cabin technology for active lifestyles. It combines the 191-horsepower engine with equipment that makes it easier to transport, protect, and access outdoor gear.
An integrated tonneau cover helps secure items in the bed, while LED bed lighting improves visibility after dark. A power sunroof brightens the cabin, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster places important driving information directly in front of the driver.
Key Santa Cruz SEL Activity Features
- 2.5L GDI-MPI four-cylinder engine
- 191 horsepower
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive or available HTRAC all-wheel drive
- Integrated lockable tonneau cover
- LED bed lighting
- 115-volt AC power outlet in the bed
- Rear sliding glass window
- Power sunroof
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- 12.3-inch touchscreen display
- Wireless device charging
- Heated front seats
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Roof rails
- Proximity key with push-button start
- Remote engine start
- Multi-function tailgate
- Under-bed storage compartment
The Santa Cruz SEL Activity is an appealing option for drivers who regularly carry bicycles, camping equipment, tools, sports gear, or other cargo that benefits from a covered and versatile bed.
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT adds turbocharged performance, standard HTRAC all-wheel drive, and rugged exterior styling. Its 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 281 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque.
The turbocharged engine is paired with an eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission designed to provide responsive acceleration. The XRT also adds wide fender cladding, model-specific exterior details, front tow hooks, and equipment designed to support active travel and light off-pavement adventures.
Key Santa Cruz XRT Features
- 2.5L turbocharged GDI-MPI four-cylinder engine
- 281 horsepower
- 311 lb.-ft. of torque
- Eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission
- Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters
- Standard HTRAC all-wheel drive
- Drive Mode Select
- Wide XRT fender cladding
- Unique XRT exterior styling
- Front tow hooks
- Model-specific alloy wheels
- H-Tex trimmed seating surfaces
- Heated front seats
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Wireless device charging
- Integrated tonneau cover
- LED bed lighting
- 115-volt AC bed outlet
- Power sunroof
- Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
The Santa Cruz XRT is built for drivers who want stronger acceleration, confident all-wheel-drive capability, and rugged styling that stands apart from the rest of the lineup.
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited brings premium comfort and advanced technology to the sport-adventure vehicle lineup. It uses the same 281-horsepower turbocharged engine and standard HTRAC all-wheel drive as the XRT while adding upscale interior materials and expanded driver-assistance equipment.
Leather-trimmed seating, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and premium audio create a more refined cabin. Advanced camera systems and parking technology provide additional assistance in crowded parking areas and other tight spaces.
Key Santa Cruz Limited Features
- 2.5L turbocharged GDI-MPI four-cylinder engine
- 281 horsepower
- 311 lb.-ft. of torque
- Eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission
- Standard HTRAC all-wheel drive
- Leather-trimmed seating surfaces
- Heated front seats
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Driver-seat memory system
- Power-adjustable front passenger seat
- 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Bose premium audio system
- Wireless device charging
- Surround View Monitor
- Blind-Spot View Monitor
- Highway Driving Assist
- Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control
- Remote Smart Parking Assist
- Integrated tonneau cover
- LED bed lighting
- 115-volt AC bed outlet
- Power sunroof
- Ambient interior lighting
The Santa Cruz Limited is designed for drivers seeking a distinctive combination of turbocharged performance, open-bed utility, premium comfort, and advanced technology.
2026 Santa Cruz Engine and Performance Comparison
| Performance Specification | SE, SEL and SEL Activity | XRT and Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L GDI-MPI four-cylinder | 2.5L turbocharged GDI-MPI four-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 191 horsepower | 281 horsepower |
| Torque | 181 lb.-ft. | 311 lb.-ft. |
| Transmission | Eight-speed automatic | Eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission |
| Drivetrain | FWD or available HTRAC AWD | Standard HTRAC AWD |
| Maximum Available Towing Capacity | Up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped | Up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped |
| Driving Character | Smooth and practical everyday performance | Stronger acceleration and added towing capability |
Santa Cruz Horsepower Comparison
| Engine | Relative Horsepower | Output |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5L Four-Cylinder |
|
191 horsepower |
| 2.5L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder |
|
281 horsepower |
Santa Cruz Open-Bed Utility
The 2026 Santa Cruz bed is designed to handle cargo while providing storage solutions not typically found in a conventional pickup. Its molded composite construction is complemented by multiple storage areas, tie-down points, and convenient access features.
| Bed Feature | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Lockable Under-Bed Storage | Provides a concealed storage area beneath the bed floor for tools, equipment, or smaller personal items. |
| Sidewall Storage Compartments | Creates additional storage space along the sides of the cargo bed. |
| Integrated Tonneau Cover | Available or standard on select trims to help cover and secure cargo. |
| Heavy-Duty Cargo D-Rings | Provides secure attachment points for straps and cargo restraints. |
| Utility Track Rail System | Allows compatible cleats and accessories to be repositioned for different cargo. |
| Integrated Rear Bumper Steps | Makes it easier to step up and access items in the bed. |
| Multi-Function Tailgate | Uses an assisted opening and closing design for easier operation. |
| Available 115-Volt Outlet | Can power compatible tools, lights, or recreational equipment. |
| Available LED Bed Lighting | Improves cargo-area visibility in low-light conditions. |
2026 Santa Cruz Towing Capability
The Santa Cruz offers different towing capabilities depending on engine, drivetrain, equipment, and vehicle configuration. Models equipped with the turbocharged engine provide the lineup’s greatest available towing capacity.
| Configuration | Maximum Available Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2.5L Four-Cylinder Models | Up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped |
| 2.5L Turbocharged Models | Up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped |
| Trailer Pre-Wiring | Standard |
Santa Cruz Towing Capacity Comparison
| Powertrain | Relative Towing Capacity | Maximum Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5L Four-Cylinder |
|
Up to 3,500 pounds |
| 2.5L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder |
|
Up to 5,000 pounds |
2026 Santa Cruz Exterior Dimensions
| Exterior Measurement | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Overall Length | 195.7 inches |
| Wheelbase | 118.3 inches |
| Overall Width Without Mirrors | 75.0 inches |
| Overall Height With Roof Rails | 66.7 inches |
| Bed Length at Floor | Approximately 52.1 inches |
| Bed Width at Floor | Approximately 53.9 inches |
| Minimum Ground Clearance | Up to approximately 8.6 inches, depending on configuration |
2026 Santa Cruz Passenger Space
The Santa Cruz provides seating for five in a four-door cabin. The rear seat features split tip-up lower cushions, creating additional interior storage space when the rear seating positions are not being used.
| Interior Measurement | Front Row | Rear Row |
|---|---|---|
| Headroom Without Sunroof | 40.2 inches | 39.6 inches |
| Legroom | 41.4 inches | 36.5 inches |
| Shoulder Room | 57.7 inches | 56.1 inches |
| Hip Room | 54.5 inches | 53.5 inches |
| Rear Seat Configuration | 60/40 split tip-up lower seat cushions | |
2026 Santa Cruz Technology
Every 2026 Santa Cruz includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen display and wireless smartphone connectivity. Higher trims add a digital instrument cluster, navigation, premium audio, wireless charging, advanced camera views, and connected access features.
| Technology Feature | SE | SEL | SEL Activity | XRT | Limited |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12.3-Inch Touchscreen | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| 12.3-Inch Digital Instrument Cluster | — | — | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Wireless Device Charging | — | Available | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Onboard Navigation | — | — | — | Standard | Standard |
| Bose Premium Audio | — | — | — | — | Standard |
| Surround View Monitor | — | — | — | — | Standard |
| Blind-Spot View Monitor | — | — | — | — | Standard |
Hyundai SmartSense Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2026 Santa Cruz includes a collection of Hyundai SmartSense technologies designed to support driver awareness and assist in certain traffic, lane-change, highway, and parking situations.
Standard Santa Cruz Safety Highlights
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- High Beam Assist
- Rear Occupant Alert
- Leading Vehicle Departure Alert
- Rearview Monitor with parking guidance
- Electronic Stability Control
- Traction Control System
- Anti-lock Braking System
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System with individual tire indicator
Available Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Safe Exit Warning
- Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Highway Driving Assist
- Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control
- Blind-Spot View Monitor
- Surround View Monitor
- Remote Smart Parking Assist
Front-Wheel Drive or HTRAC All-Wheel Drive
Front-wheel drive is offered on select Santa Cruz trims for responsive everyday driving. Available HTRAC all-wheel drive can distribute power between the front and rear wheels to support traction during changing road and weather conditions.
HTRAC all-wheel drive is standard on the turbocharged XRT and Limited trims. These models also provide selectable driving modes that allow drivers to adjust vehicle response for different situations.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
What trims are available for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz is available in SE, SEL, SEL Activity, XRT, and Limited trim levels.
How much horsepower does the 2026 Santa Cruz have?
SE, SEL, and SEL Activity models produce 191 horsepower. The turbocharged XRT and Limited produce 281 horsepower.
Which Santa Cruz trims have the turbocharged engine?
The 2026 Santa Cruz XRT and Limited include the 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
Is all-wheel drive available on the Santa Cruz?
Yes. HTRAC all-wheel drive is available on select SE, SEL, and SEL Activity models and standard on the XRT and Limited.
How much can the Hyundai Santa Cruz tow?
Models with the standard 2.5L engine can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. Turbocharged Santa Cruz models can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
How many passengers can the Santa Cruz seat?
The 2026 Santa Cruz provides seating for up to five passengers.
Does the Santa Cruz have a lockable bed?
The Santa Cruz offers a lockable under-bed storage compartment. An integrated lockable tonneau cover is also standard or available on select trims.
Which Santa Cruz trim has an integrated tonneau cover?
The integrated tonneau cover is standard on the SEL Activity, XRT, and Limited and may be available on the SEL.
Which Santa Cruz trim has heated seats?
Heated front seats are standard on the SEL, SEL Activity, XRT, and Limited.
Which Santa Cruz trim has ventilated seats?
Ventilated front seats are standard on the Santa Cruz Limited.
Which Santa Cruz trim has leather seats?
The Santa Cruz Limited includes leather-trimmed seating surfaces.
Which Santa Cruz trim has Bose premium audio?
The Bose premium audio system is standard on the Santa Cruz Limited.
Does the Santa Cruz have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are included across the 2026 Santa Cruz lineup.
What is the difference between the Santa Cruz SEL and SEL Activity?
The SEL Activity builds on the SEL by adding adventure-focused equipment such as an integrated tonneau cover, power sunroof, digital instrument cluster, wireless charging, LED bed lighting, and a bed-mounted power outlet.
What makes the Santa Cruz XRT different?
The XRT combines the turbocharged engine and standard HTRAC all-wheel drive with rugged exterior styling, wide fender cladding, front tow hooks, and model-specific design details.
Why Choose Gregory Hyundai for Your 2026 Santa Cruz?
At Gregory Hyundai, our team can help you compare every 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz trim, powertrain, drivetrain, bed feature, and available technology. Whether your priorities include daily comfort, cargo flexibility, towing capability, turbocharged performance, or premium appointments, we can help you explore the Santa Cruz lineup.
Our team can also assist with test drives, trade-in evaluations, financing options, lease opportunities, and questions about Hyundai ownership benefits. Gregory Hyundai is here to make your Santa Cruz shopping experience clear and convenient.
Shop for a New 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Browse available 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz models at Gregory Hyundai. Compare SE, SEL, SEL Activity, XRT, and Limited vehicles, then contact our team to schedule a test drive and learn more about current availability.
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