The Good
The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a comfortable ride and distinctive design, appealing emotionally. Practically, it provides decent performance with available turbo engine, reasonable fuel efficiency for its class, and good value relative to features. Initial reliability reports are generally positive, adding to its appeal.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz include limited bed space compared to traditional pickups. Some owners have noted infotainment glitches and potential issues with the dual-clutch transmission in turbocharged models. Rear visibility can also be challenging. Towing capacity, while decent, isn't class-leading.
2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.5L Inline-4: Standard engine.
- 2.5L Turbo Inline-4: Available on higher trims.
- Horsepower:
- 2.5L Inline-4: 191 hp.
- 2.5L Turbo Inline-4: 281 hp.
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.5L Inline-4: 21 MPG City / 26 MPG Highway / 23 MPG Combined (FWD). AWD slightly lower.
- 2.5L Turbo Inline-4: 19 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway / 22 MPG Combined (AWD).
- 0-60 Times (Approximate):
- 2.5L Inline-4: 8.5-9 seconds.
- 2.5L Turbo Inline-4: 6.3-7 seconds.
- Towing Capacity:
- 2.5L Inline-4: 3,500 lbs (with trailer brakes).
- 2.5L Turbo Inline-4: 5,000 lbs (with trailer brakes).
- Trim-Level Features:
- SE: 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist.
- SEL: Blind-spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist, heated front seats, proximity key.
- SEL Premium: 10.25-inch touchscreen, Hyundai Digital Key, LED headlights, sunroof.
- Limited: Leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, Bose premium audio, surround view monitor, blind-spot view monitor.
2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2022 |
| Make | Hyundai |
| Model | Santa Cruz |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | - |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | - |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Have?
One area of concern revolves around the infotainment system. Some owners have reported glitches, software freezes, and connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These problems don't appear widespread but are consistently mentioned in online forums and reviews.
The 2.5L turbocharged engine, while offering strong performance, uses a dual-clutch transmission (DCT). DCTs can sometimes exhibit jerky behavior at low speeds, and long-term reliability can be a concern compared to traditional automatic transmissions. While not a pervasive issue, it's something to monitor.
There have been a few recalls issued for the 2022 Santa Cruz, including potential issues with the trailer hitch wiring harness and seat belt pretensioners. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN with Hyundai to ensure all recall work has been performed.
Long-term reliability is still largely unknown. Keeping up with scheduled maintenance, especially fluid changes for the DCT (if equipped), is essential for maximizing the vehicle's lifespan. Owner forums and online resources will likely provide more comprehensive data as the 2022 models age.
How long will the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Standard driver-assistance features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Driver Attention Warning. Available features on higher trims include Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control, and Highway Driving Assist.
Safety features include airbags, ABS, and electronic stability control. Higher trims offer a Surround View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor, enhancing visibility.
As for crash-test ratings, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz was tested by the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and received a "Top Safety Pick" award. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) also provided it with a 4-star overall safety rating. These ratings reflect the vehicle's strong performance in crash tests and its comprehensive suite of safety features.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Prices and Market Value
2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Cost of Ownership
2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Fuel Efficiency
2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Safety Rating
NHTSA
2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Recalls & Defects
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:gasoline:turbo/Supercharger
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:oil/Lubrication:pipes, Hoses, and Fittings
Trailer Hitches
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Structure:body:roof and Pillars
Structure:critical Fasteners
2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Compare to Other Vehicle?
Compared to traditional mid-size trucks like the Toyota Tacoma or Chevrolet Colorado, the Santa Cruz offers a more comfortable ride and better handling due to its unibody construction. However, it lacks the ruggedness and towing capacity of these trucks. Its bed is also significantly smaller.
If prioritizing fuel efficiency and a lower price point, the Ford Maverick is a strong alternative. If needing more towing capacity or off-road capability, a mid-size truck like the Tacoma or Colorado is preferable. The Santa Cruz excels at blending car-like comfort with some truck utility. It's not necessarily "better" than its rivals, but it caters to a different need.
For a similar blend of car-like comfort and truck utility, there aren't many direct competitors besides the Maverick. Its unique design and feature set make it a distinct choice.
Ranks #141 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 141 | 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz a Good Vehicle?
Kathy on December 6, 2024
The paint is chipping off of it everywhere small chipsThe paint is chipping off of it everywhere small chips when it rains or when you wash your car, you open the doors and inside the door frame, it is always wet.
Squier Smith on October 9, 2024
We have a 2022 Limited with 24000 miles.We have a 2022 Limited with 24000 miles. It serves its purpose well with the ability to cary bark dust and as a daily driver. The creature comforts are very nice with the cooled seats and the heated steering wheel. is inexcusable that the top model has a manual passenger seat. The headlights are the worst I have ever driven with.
J on September 2, 2024
Purchased a used 2022 Santa Cruz with 25,000 miles.Purchased a used 2022 Santa Cruz with 25,000 miles. So far it's the best vehicle I've owned. For starters, it's a beautiful looking vehicle. I live in a rural country area and folks have approached me giving compliments and asking about the truck. It does stand out as a unique “truck†since they haven't been out for very long. The interior on the premium SEL package is luxurious. Worth the extra money for the sun roof and heated seats. Seats are way more comfortable than the Elantra which I traded in. Performance is impressive. The Sel premium comes with the 2.5 turbo which is more power than I really need but I love the extra umph when getting onto the highway. The AWD is perfect for New England weather. I think the blind spots were worse in the Elantra compared to the Santa Cruz which was surprising. Great safety features, comfortable ride. Has everything I need in a small truck. The Tonnaeu cover in the back looks sexy and is worth spending extra to get the premium package. I can't wait to add more accessories to my little truck. If you have the money i recommend checking out the Limited or XRT package. Nothing negative to report so far.
Vietnam Vet on December 21, 2023
Buyer BewareThe molding is bad and different colors , passenger mirror has melted from the inside out , rear bumper has split completely into . I h less than 10 thousand miles on this thing . The dealer is no help at all . I can't park it inside the garage for fear it'll catch the house on fire , like the mirror melting . Trying to sell it now . They claim this Hyundai has the best warranty of all . They really do because they never work on the vehicles to make the right .
Lizzie on November 8, 2023
Love mt B.S. truck. (Baby shark)I love my little truck. I have a 2022 turbo. It will get up and haul but. It tows great. Only promise dash lights up when towing. They don't have a fix for it. Nothing wrong but is bugs me. For a $55,000.00 truck they need to fix this
Que27 on October 5, 2023
I love itLove this vehicle, I would like a front end camera, the heated seat button on the dash not to my rear. More cubbies would be handy. Please get rid of the piano black.... It shows ALL the dust!
Chops Miner on August 15, 2023
The Santa Cruz Sport Activity Vehicle or truck-letI have recently owned model year 2022: the Ford Maverick First Edition Rapid Red w 4 k tow package + The Hybrid Alto Blue Mav XLT Lariat with the 2k tow package. Both were / are nice vehicles and fill or scratch an itch for a truer "truck ownership" experience. And I will be keeping my 22 SC Ltd, Phantom Black; the Warranty worked into my cost of ownership / ROI has me believing it will be less expensive over the lifetime I will own this SC. SC has a comfortable interior - but I like the Mav's numerous and fully functional storage nook areas. I like having the back trunk drop in storage on the SC - smart move! Overall I like the driving, parking experience with the SC Overhead view, the side cameras and the front and back cameras. LANE ASSIST, Cruise with Distance monitoring - ALL of these function soooo much better than the Maverick.
Denny on May 18, 2023
Will buy this one againGreat little truck overall. Couple of things 1 the top for the small bed leaks 2 do not like the icon dash Board, takes your eyes off the road too much 3 too much hard plastic in the interior
Alycia on May 5, 2023
Fuel door actuatorOnly issue I have had with my 2022 hyundai santa cruz is the actuator on my fuel door sticks and prevents the fuel door from opening. We have had to have it replaced.
Angel on April 30, 2023
Hyundai Santa Cruz 2022Es vago. No tiene fuerza, la cabina trasera le entra el agua cuando llueve. Se baja aoutomaticamente los cristales de la puerta del chofer y pasajero. Con las llave ðŸâ€â€˜
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.