We cross-shopped three others and this won on towing stability. the fuel bill when towing is the trade-off.
EXPERT REVIEW · COMPACT TRUCK
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz review
Hyundai Santa Cruz: capability first, comfort close behind. Illustrative review
9.0/10 OffLot expert score
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz sits near the top of its class. Standard driver-assist suite; cab is quiet at highway speed. Tall step-in height and upper trims get expensive quickly, so test the trim you'd actually buy. Starting around $30,000, it undercuts most direct rivals.
What's good
- Standard driver-assist suite
- Cab is quiet at highway speed
- Strong tow and payload ratings for the class
What to check
- Tall step-in height
- Upper trims get expensive quickly
Best for: Owners who tow or haul every week. Starting MSRP: $30,000.
Owner reviews · 4.3 of 5 from 3 owners
Replaced an older Hyundai with this one. Big step up in towing stability; I'd like a little more rear-seat room.
We cross-shopped three others and this won on towing stability. the fuel bill when towing is the trade-off.
Price trend · used Hyundai Santa Cruz, 12 months
Average used asking price in the OffLot demo index: $19,750 · -3.04% last 30 days · -1.55% year over year.