2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz: One Stylish and Smooth Pickup

While trucks are certainly utilitarian, this doesn’t mean that they can’t also be fun to drive and even luxurious. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz proves that a pickup can do a lot of different things, and do them well. Here you’ll get to know this new model with highlights from Kearny Mesa Hyundai.

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz

Exterior Design

For the 2025 model year, the Hyundai Santa Cruz received a refresh, and that carries over to the 2026 truck. This includes a wider grille, a more angular tailgate, and integrated LED lighting for the head- and taillights. Both the front and rear bumpers have a bolder and more rugged look, too.

Power and Performance

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz has two engine options. The base is a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder that produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. The available turbocharged 2.5-liter, four-cylinder will give you 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.

This new truck has excellent handling, and it’s easy to maneuver in tight quarters. Front-wheel drive is standard in this new Hyundai truck, but all-wheel drive is available.

Towing and Hauling

When properly equipped, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz can tow up to 3,500 lbs with front-wheel drive and 5,000 lbs with all-wheel drive. A four-foot bed is standard, and it offers a maximum payload of 1,411 lbs.

Interior Highlights

Up to five people can fit nicely in the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz, and the interior is extremely comfortable. Cloth upholstery is standard, but either synthetic or genuine leather can be added. Other available amenities include power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Interior

Technology Features

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz comes with an assortment of tech components. These include proximity keyless entry, push-button start, wireless Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®, and HD radio. The infotainment system has several control options, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen, voice commands, and physical buttons and knobs.

Safety Features

Safety is a cornerstone of the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz, as it comes well-equipped with protection systems. These include:

  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection
  • Blind-Spot Collision Warning
  • Lane-Keeping Assist
  • Lane Following Assist
  • Driver Attention Warning
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist

Explore the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz in San Diego, CA

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz has everything you could need in a pickup truck. Interested in learning more about it? Get in touch with our Hyundai dealership in San Diego, CA. We can also help you quickly get pre-approved for Hyundai financing.