Hyundai has unveiled the refreshed Santa Cruz compact pickup truck at the 2024 New York Motor Show. The facelift, which comes 3 years after the Santa Cruz made its debut in April 2021, features revised styling, a new dashboard design, added safety and convenience features, and extra capability for the rugged XRT grade.
The fascia now becomes more reminiscent of the new Creta that debuted in India recently. The new front end with a grille and fascia make the vehicle appear wider than before. Other notable exterior revisions include a revised DRL setup and a new alloy wheel design. Moreover, the XRT grade is further distinguished thanks to its own front and rear fascia designs, a unique grille, the addition of front tow hooks, and exclusive 18-inch wheels sporting 245/60-size all-terrain tires. According to Hyundai, the new front fascia for the XRT variant delivers an increased approach angle.
Inside, there is a new dashboard with a floating panel that combines 12.3-inch digital screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. Hyundai also added new switchgear in the center stack for the audio and climate settings and redesigned existing controls to make them easier to use. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus support for over-the-air updates are all included. Furthermore, Hyundai has also added a driver-attention monitor.
Powertrains remain unchanged. The standard option is a 2.5L four-cylinder rated at 191 hp while there is a more powerful 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder unit rated at 281 hp. The naturally aspirated engine comes paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox, while the turbocharged engine gets an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. In both cases, front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available as an option. Hyundai has also added a tow mode for turbocharged Santa Cruz variants.
The refreshed Santa Cruz will be in showrooms in the North American markets this summer as a 2025 model-year vehicle. Pricing information will be announced closer to the market launch.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
