2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz

Speaking of XRT, Hyundai installs all-terrain tires to help the truck's grip off the beaten path. Previously, the XRT rode on the same street tires as other trims, but there's a bit more happening than just tires. The grille gets a special pattern, and the front and rear fascias are XRT-specific for a better approach angle when off-roading. Prominent red tow hooks are added to the front, and it rides on XRT-specific 18-inch wheels.

As for the inside, changes here are far more prominent. The new greenhouse borrows a page from the recently updated Tucson with a curved panoramic screen incorporating driver and center infotainment displays. Each one is available up to 12.3 inches in size, nestled in a new dash with a shelf above the glove box. A bank of tactile controls for audio and climate settings lives in the middle, with a prominent shift stalk still in place for the transmission. A new Tucson-esque steering wheel is added as well.

The interior upgrade comes with more technology. Over-the-air updates are now possible, and you'll find wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on all trims. Bluelink+ connected car tech is plugged in, along with Hyundai Pay in-car payment systems. Hyundai's Digital Key 2 Touch lets you lock or unlock the truck with your smartphone, and in the safety department, Forward Attention Warning is added. Opt for the XRT and you'll get standard-issue surround-view and blind-spot cameras, too.

Under the skin, you still have a choice of two engines. The 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder is standard, driving either the front wheels or all four. The burly version is the 2.5-liter turbo making 281 hp and 311 pound-feet of torque. It's connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, and on XRT or Limited trims, the turbo gives you a new towing mode good for 5,000 pounds.

The 2025 Santa Cruz reaches dealerships this summer. Pricing will be announced closer to its on-sale date. For reference, the 2024 Santa Cruz starts at $28,275 with destination included. The other end of the scale is the Santa Cruz Limited with a sticker price of $42,695.