The Good
The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a comfortable ride and distinctive design that appeals emotionally. Practically, it provides decent fuel efficiency (especially with the base engine), a versatile bed for hauling, and a strong turbocharged engine option for added performance. Reliability is generally good, and it presents a solid value proposition for its unique blend of SUV and truck characteristics.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz include limited rear seat space compared to some SUVs, and the bed's smaller size compared to traditional pickups. Some find the infotainment system can be distracting. Be mindful of potential repair costs associated with the more complex features, and consider the higher trims' price point.
2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz: Quick Overview
Key specs for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz:
- Engine Options:
- 2.5L Inline-4: Standard on SE and SEL trims.
- 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4: Available on SEL Premium, Night, and Limited trims.
- Horsepower:
- 2.5L Inline-4: 191 hp
- 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4: 281 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.5L Inline-4: 21 city / 26 highway mpg (FWD)
21 city / 25 highway mpg (AWD) - 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4: 19 city / 27 highway mpg (AWD)
- 2.5L Inline-4: 21 city / 26 highway mpg (FWD)
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.5L Inline-4: Around 8.5 seconds
- 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4: Around 6.0-6.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- 2.5L Inline-4: 3,500 lbs
- 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4: 5,000 lbs
- 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: HTRAC All-Wheel Drive standard, 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, Hyundai Digital Key.
- Night: Dark exterior styling, unique 20-inch alloy wheels, turbocharged engine.
- Limited: Leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, Bose premium audio, surround view monitor, blind-spot view monitor.
2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2023 |
| Make | Hyundai |
| Model | Santa Cruz |
| Trim | - |
| Style | All-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Truck |
| Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3708 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6000 pounds |
| Overall Height | 66.7 inches |
| Overall Length | 195.7 inches |
| Overall Width | 75 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 118.3 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5-L I4 |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 8-Speed |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $25,450 |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Have?
How long will the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features comprise multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and anti-lock brakes. Higher trims often add blind-spot view monitor, which projects a camera view of blind spots in the instrument cluster when signaling.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) should be checked for the 2023 model year, as these ratings can vary. As of my knowledge cut-off, the Santa Cruz typically receives good safety ratings, but always verify the latest information from these official sources for the most accurate assessment of its safety performance.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Prices and Market Value
2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Cost of Ownership
2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Fuel Efficiency
2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Safety Rating
NHTSA
2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Recalls & Defects
Trailer Hitches
Structure:body:roof and Pillars
Structure:critical Fasteners
2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Warranty
Basic
Corrosion
Drivetrain
Maintenance
Roadside Assistance
2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Compare to Other Truck?
Alternatives to consider include the Ford Maverick for budget-conscious buyers or those prioritizing fuel economy, and the Honda Ridgeline for buyers needing more truck-like capabilities. The Subaru Outback might also be considered by buyers who do not need an open bed but want similar practicality. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences. The Maverick presents a strong value play, while the Ridgeline emphasizes truck capabilities. The Santa Cruz finds a middle ground with a unique design and comfortable ride.
Ranks #6 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★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz a Good Truck?
William Fincher on January 19, 2025
Our 2023 SEL PREMIUM santa cruz has been a blast.Our 2023 SEL PREMIUM santa cruz has been a blast. Drives smooth/quiet. The bed with the factory sliding cover is perfect for tools and secure. I throw a tarp over the tools in heavy rain/snow because it's not totally water proof. The turbo is nice, mileage respectful.
LTC_RN_Retired on December 7, 2024
The vehicle rides great.The vehicle rides great. We now take it on our trips instead of my wife's Honda because it rides so much better. It quickly warms up, which is important to us as we live in a harsh winter environment area. The interior is roomy making it easy to secure items in an inside environment. But they are still easy to access from inside the vehicle. It has a lot of power, allowing me to tow a trailer on interstates without a problem. Two drawbacks: 1. The electronic touch lock/unlock is problematic. The dealer replace the driver side door handle and will have to do it with the passenger side. 2. The tonneau cover lock mechanism freezes up sometimes in the winter making the pickup truck bed difficult to access. Overall, I like the vehicle very much and would purchase another one.
Tom on February 25, 2024
Awesome ride.Great gas mileage, comfortable, love the driver assist, turbo is a fast truck and just enough room for golf clubs, ebikes, and whatever else I need to haul around. Not a single problem after 20,000 miles. A lot of these negative reviews are competing dealerships leaving garbage reviews.
Karen M Young on November 25, 2023
Why I love my Santa CruzI absolutely love my Santa Cruz. As the sole driver, I knew we needed a truck, but I didn't want to drive a truck. We saw the Santa Cruz on the highway and I loved it. I did some research. I just wanted to get behind the wheel--no intention of buying. We took Genie home with us that day. Genie, because she's everything I wanted in a vehicle. Love the safety features, the taneau cover, the footsteps in the bumper are great as I am 5' 1/2" and 74 years young. I have no trouble getting into the truck bed. She's pretty peppy, too!
Laura on October 31, 2023
My dream car, a dudI have spent $1600 within the first year and again $800 yesterday to replace the fuel injectors. There's four on the car and two have gone bad on a brand new truck with the extended warranty bumper-to-bumper 120,000 mile coverage if you injectors are not covered the truck is not waterproof so you can't put anything in the back without it getting soaking wet the whole reason I bought the truck as a fireman and nurse to keep my gear dry
Chewch on October 18, 2023
Not what I thought it would be.The car is okay for what it is but could be so much better. They should have spent more time and effort on the practical than on the “tech glitz.†The emphasis on the Hyundai “tech†is a big let down for me: it's not user friendly and; it's both annoying and downright unsafe. You have to take your eyes off the road to make the often multiple step things happen. It's intrusive to your need to drive. The car is a “nanny car†and nanny is a big pain.
James Klier on August 4, 2023
Love my Hyundai Santa CruzLove the styling and features of the car and the over all experience at the dealer was a positive one. If anything just was bit disappointed after driving the vehicle with its performance. I still love my new Santa Cruz and will enjoy this for many years to come.
Jules on April 22, 2023
This Truck Can Pull a Trailor.This is my 3rd Hyundai vehicle
JDecker on April 1, 2023
So far so good!I've had my Santa Cruz for a month now and so far loving the experience. I had a 2013 chevy Silverado1500 crew cab I bought new and decided to downsize. It has been a great decision.
Bruzoo on March 26, 2023
Eclectic fun and practicalI am a short person. I can SEE in the Santa Cruz while being able to reach the pedals. The interior is luxurious and the ability to drive in snow and mountains is wonderful. (I live in Colorado). I can use the remote start from a good distance - allowing me to have a warm car! This vehicle is AGILE! Easily maneuvering in Denver traffic. And it's FUN to drive. I bought it for antiquing and it holds quite a lot. I put a full size doctor's scale in the truck bed without issue! The mileage varies greatly. I've gotten as much as 31 mpg and as low as 21. So far, I'm very impressed! A hyundai! Who knew? We've usually stuck to Toyota and Honda. My last vehicle was an Audi.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma