2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz: Pricing, Features, and What Drivers Can Expect 

At Ontario Hyundai in Ontario Auto Center we’re committed to keeping Southern California drivers informed about the latest and most exciting vehicles on the market. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz continues to stand out as a sporty, compact “Sport Adventure Vehicle” that blends the utility of a truck with the comfort and handling of a crossover. Whether you’re commuting around Ontario, heading to work, or gearing up for a weekend escape, the Santa Cruz is engineered to deliver versatility, convenience, and a little bit of fun. It's built for wherever the road or trail takes you. In this guide, we’ll break down pricing, trims, performance, technology, safety features, and what’s new for 2026.

Pricing and Trim Overview

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz is available in five trims, each tailored to a different mix of value, capability, and features. 

• SE 

• Price: ~$29,500 

• Engine: 2.5L NA • 191 hp 

• Drivetrain: FWD / AWD 

• MPG: 22/30 

• Tow Capacity: 3,500 lbs 

• SEL 

• Price: ~$31,150 

• Engine: 2.5L NA • 191 hp 

• Drivetrain: FWD / AWD 

• MPG: 22/30 

• Tow Capacity: 3,500 lbs 

• SEL Activity 

• Price: ~$34,200 

• Engine: 2.5L NA • 191 hp 

• Drivetrain: FWD / AWD 

• MPG: 22/30 

• Tow Capacity: 3,500 lbs 

• XRT 

• Price: ~$41,100 

• Engine: 2.5L Turbo • 281 hp 

• Drivetrain: AWD 

• MPG: 18/25 

• Tow Capacity: 5,000 lbs 

• Limited 

• Price: ~$43,450 

• Engine: 2.5L Turbo • 281 hp 

• Drivetrain: AWD 

• MPG: 18/25 

• Tow Capacity: 5,000 lbs 

This pricing makes the Santa Cruz accessible to a wide range of buyers. From the base SE trim to the fully loaded Limited, each version offers a compelling combination of comfort, tech, and capability. Ontario Hyundai may already have the ideal trim in stock, making it easy for shoppers to get behind the wheel quickly.

Powertrain & Performance

The 2026 Santa Cruz offers two engine options designed to balance efficiency, power, and reliability: 

• 2.5L Naturally Aspirated 4-Cylinder (SE, SEL, SEL Activity) 

• 191 hp / 181 lb-ft of torque 

• 8-speed automatic transmission 

• Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD) 

• 2.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder (XRT, Limited) 

• 281 hp / 311 lb-ft of torque 

• 8-speed automatic (new torque-converter replaces previous dual-clutch) 

• All-Wheel Drive standard 

The introduction of a traditional 8-speed automatic on turbo models improves drivability and smoothness, offering a more confident driving experience, especially when towing or accelerating on highways. The turbocharged engine provides ample power for spirited driving, towing, and even light off-road adventures, making the XRT and Limited trims ideal for active lifestyles. 

 Fuel Economy

The Santa Cruz offers competitive fuel efficiency for its segment: 

• 2.5L FWD: 22 city / 30 highway / 25 combined 

• 2.5L AWD: 21 city / 29 highway / 24 combined 

• 2.5L Turbo AWD: 18 city / 25 highway / ~20 combined 

Car and Driver even recorded 30 mpg on a real-world 75-mph highway drive with the turbo model, which is an impressive feat for a compact pickup with serious capability. This balance of efficiency and performance makes the Santa Cruz ideal for Southern California drivers who want a versatile vehicle without compromising fuel economy. 

 Performance Features & Capability

The Santa Cruz doesn’t just look rugged, its built for more, and that is ito handle real-world tasks: 

• Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs (2.5L NA) | 5,000 lbs (2.5L Turbo) 

• Cargo Bed Features: Lockable under-bed storage, integrated rear bumper steps, heavy-duty tie-downs, available tonneau cover (SEL Activity and above) 

• Off-Road Ready: XRT trim adds standard Terrain Mode for mud, snow, and sand 

Whether hauling bikes, sports gear, camping equipment, or even small trailers, the Santa Cruz adapts effortlessly to daily routines and weekend adventures. Its compact size also makes maneuvering in urban areas and parking easier than traditional full-size pickups. 

 Interior & Technology

The interior of the Santa Cruz is surprisingly upscale and tech-forward for its size: 

• SE Trim: 

• 12.3-inch touchscreen 

• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto 

• Remote start, sliding rear window, four USB ports 

• SEL + SEL Activity: 

• Synthetic-leather seating surfaces 

• Power driver’s seat, heated front seats 

• SEL Activity adds: tonneau cover, 115V outlet, LED bed lighting, moonroof, 12.3-inch digital cluster, wireless charging 

• Limited Trim: 

• Leather seating 

• Ventilated front seats 

• Premium audio system 

• 360° surround-view camera 

From commuting to weekend adventures, the Santa Cruz’s interior prioritizes convenience, comfort, and connectivity, making long drives or city errands equally enjoyable. 

 Safety & Warranty

Hyundai equips the 2026 Santa Cruz with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies: 

• Forward Collision Warning 

• Pedestrian Detection 

• Automatic Emergency Braking 

• Blind-Spot Monitoring 

• Lane-Centering Steering 

• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert 

• Automatic High Beams 

Hyundai also continues offering one of the industry’s most competitive warranties: 

• 5-year / 60,000-mile limited warranty 

• 10-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty 

• 3-year / 36,000-mile complimentary maintenance 

This combination of advanced safety features and long-term coverage provides peace of mind for drivers and their passengers. 

 What’s New for 2026

Hyundai has refined the Santa Cruz based on owner feedback: 

• New 8-speed automatic transmission replaces the previous dual-clutch on turbo models 

• XRT trim adds Terrain Mode for greater off-road capability 

• Interior updates enhance rear-seat comfort and usability on higher trims 

These upgrades ensure the 2026 Santa Cruz is not only more capable but also more enjoyable for everyday driving and weekend adventures alike. 

 Why It’s a Great Fit for Ontario Auto Center Shoppers 

The Santa Cruz is particularly well-suited for Southern California drivers: 

• Versatile: Combines truck utility with crossover comfort 

• Efficient: Strong fuel economy for its capability 

• Adventure-Ready: Perfect for camping, hiking, beach trips, and urban exploration 

• Dependable: Backed by Hyundai warranties and Ontario Hyundai’s service network 

Whether you’re commuting, hauling gear, or venturing off-road, the Santa Cruz adapts to your lifestyle without compromise. 

 Final Thoughts

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz continues to carve out a unique niche in the automotive market. It’s not a traditional pickup, and that’s exactly its strength. With competitive pricing, versatile powertrains, refined technology, and industry-leading warranties, it’s a standout choice for buyers seeking comfort, capability, and style in one package. 

At Ontario Hyundai, our team is ready to help you explore the Santa Cruz in person. Whether you want to check availability, schedule a test drive, or discuss trim options, we’re here to ensure you find the perfect match for your needs. The Santa Cruz proves that a compact pickup can be practical, fun, and ready for anything.