2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Release Date & What's New

It was three years ago, for the 2022 model year, that Hyundai decided to take a huge leap and deviate from its norm by introducing the incredible Santa Cruz compact pickup truck. The pickup truck segment has almost always been the most popular on the market, so it makes sense to take advantage of that, especially when so few do. Hyundai took things a step further by trying to corner a small subsection of the class that certainly has its enthusiasts but not too many options – the compact truck segment. Now, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz is getting enhanced, and with a release date of sometime this summer we thought we’d highlight what’s new and exciting in the truck this year.

“The development goal for freshening the Santa Cruz was to give it an even bolder, stronger design. We also wanted Santa Cruz to be more capable, and the available XRT trim delivers with all-terrain tires, front tow hooks and improved off-road capability. Customers are going to appreciate all the new design details and enhancements inside and out. Santa Cruz is a true sport adventure vehicle.”

– Jose Munoz, President & Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor Company

If you’re in the market for a new pickup truck but are looking for something small and unique, then you should definitely consider checking out the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz. As we mentioned, this year the young truck underwent some exciting enhancements so we thought we’d go through them all here while also highlighting some of its available features.

• Updated front fascia
• Updated grille
• Updated wheels
• Updated daytime running lights
• Updated instrument panel
• Updated steering wheel
• Updated air vents
• Updated controls, switches and buttons; featuring audio, video, navigation, HVAC
• Available panoramic curved display; featuring 12.3” driver information cluster, 12.3” audio-video navigation system
• New XRT-exclusive fascia designs; featuring front and rear bumpers, front grille
• Front tow hooks; on XRT
• Wrench-inspired 18” wheels; on XRT
• 245/60R18 all-terrain tires; on XRT
• Increased approach angle; on XRT
• Surround View Monitor; now on XRT
• Blind-Spot View Monitor; now on XRT
• Front seatback featuring trim logo debossing; on XRT
• Wireless Apple CarPlay; now on all trims
• Wireless Android Auto; now on all trims
• Over-the-Air software, firmware updates
• USB Type-C ports
• Bluelink+ Connected Car
• Hyundai Pay
• Integrated Memory System
• Digital Key 2 Touch
• Fingerprint scanner
• Towing Drive Mode; on Limited and XRT with 2.5L turbocharged powertrain
• Forward Attention Warning
• New Color Options
  • Rockwood Green exterior
  • Canyon Red exterior
  • Medium Gray interior

In addition to highlighting all the enhancements and exciting features, we thought we should touch on the available powertrains found in the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz so that you get a good idea of what’s possible with the truck. The standard option is a 2.5L in-line four-cylinder engine that’s capable of generating up to 191 horsepower alongside 181 pound-feet of torque. It’s tethered to an eight-speed transmission system that delivers an engaging experience each time you slide behind the wheel, plus enhances the efficiency of the truck.

Alternatively, you can opt for the available 2.5L turbocharged powertrain, which boosts performance up to 281 hp and 311 lb-ft. of torque. Instead of the regular automatic, this engine comes with an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission, which includes paddle shifters if you enjoy the feel of manual shifting. With either engine option, you’ll also benefit from the awesome HTRAC all-wheel drive system, which delivers peace of mind on all manner of driving and road conditions.

If you think you might be interested in a 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz of your own, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us right here at Titus-Will Automotive Group. We can’t wait to see you behind the wheel!