2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT: The Ultimate Adventure Pickup
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT is a rugged yet refined pickup that offers a perfect balance between utility and everyday comfort. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts and city dwellers alike, the Santa Cruz XRT stands out with its bold design, enhanced capabilities, and cutting-edge technology.
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four |
| Horsepower | 281 hp |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs |
| Infotainment | 10.25-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| Safety Features | Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring |
| Starting Price | $42,000 |
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is one of the few pickups in the U.S. market that blends the utility of a truck with the versatility of an SUV. It’s inspired by the growing popularity of adventure vehicles that are equally at home in the city and off the beaten path.
Design and Exterior
The 2025 Santa Cruz XRT stands out with its aggressive and bold styling. The XRT trim adds rugged exterior elements like skid plates, off-road tires, and blacked-out trim to give the pickup a tougher, more adventurous look. The wide stance and signature cascading grille, along with its LED headlights and angular body lines, make the Santa Cruz XRT both stylish and functional for those looking to explore.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Santa Cruz XRT offers a comfortable and tech-forward cabin. The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is the centerpiece of the interior, providing easy access to navigation, media, and smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The seats are upholstered with durable yet comfortable materials, designed to withstand outdoor activities while providing long-distance comfort.
The rear seating area is surprisingly spacious for a pickup of this size, offering enough legroom for passengers or additional cargo space. The interior layout focuses on functionality, with plenty of storage compartments, cup holders, and charging ports throughout the cabin.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the Santa Cruz XRT is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that delivers 281 horsepower, providing plenty of power for both highway driving and off-road adventures. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, the Santa Cruz XRT offers responsive acceleration and smooth shifting.
The XRT trim also comes equipped with enhanced off-road capabilities, including all-terrain tires and skid plates for added protection. With a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, it’s capable of hauling trailers, boats, or other adventure gear with ease. Whether navigating urban environments or tackling dirt trails, the Santa Cruz XRT offers a composed and confident driving experience.
Safety and Technology
Hyundai has equipped the Santa Cruz XRT with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard equipment includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These systems work together to enhance driver confidence and safety on all types of roads, from highways to rugged trails.
In terms of technology, the XRT trim is packed with the latest features. The 10.25-inch touchscreen is paired with a digital instrument cluster, providing a wealth of information at the driver’s fingertips. Wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a premium sound system round out the tech offerings, making it ideal for long road trips or off-road expeditions.
Pricing and Trims
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT starts at around $42,000, offering a well-equipped adventure vehicle at a competitive price point. With its rugged design and enhanced capabilities, the XRT trim is perfect for those looking to take their explorations to the next level. Fully loaded versions with additional off-road packages and interior upgrades can reach up to $48,000.
Conclusion
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT is a unique pickup that combines the practicality of a truck with the comfort and versatility of an SUV. Its rugged styling, powerful engine, and advanced technology make it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a vehicle that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures. With competitive pricing and a host of features, the Santa Cruz XRT is a top contender in the adventure vehicle segment.
