There will be a few novelties on the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz. But, the truck is pretty much the same as its debut edition. The new package is going to be available, called Night Edition. As you can guess, this is a darker version of the pickup. Also, the price of the entire lineup is revisited and its higher than before. Not a good news for the truck, especially knowing that unibody models struggle against high-capable pickups built on the ladder frame.
Another interesting speculation is drawing attention – the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz hybrid truck. Well, the architecture allows an easier implementation of such a technology. Plus, the carmaker is launching more SUVs and crossovers with hybrid drivetrains. So, it won’t be impossible to see such a setup for the pickup truck.
2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night Edition
The new model is coming with the turbocharged engine. In a matter of fact, you won’t find a cheaper configuration with a 2.5-liter mill producing 280 hp and 310 lb-ft. An all-wheel drive is standard. The all-black styling is making the pickup more aggressive. Not only that, but other parts are revisited for the Night model, such as bumpers and wheels. The interior is the same as for other trim levels, with all the updates the 2023 YM is bringing. The price of the Santa Cruz Night Edition starts from $35,800.
Other Colors and Options
There are four trim levels available for this truck. Besides the turbo-four engine for upper grades, a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated configuration is there for the SE and SEL packages. The engine delivers 191 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque. But, the turbo models can tow 5,000 lbs. The entry-level package offers six colors: Sage Gray, Phantom Black, Ice White, Hampton Gray, Blue Stone and Mojave Sand. The price bumped up by $1,000 and now it starts at $25,500. A good thing is that some features, such as blind-spot monitors are now standard all across the lineup.
The SEL adds heated mirrors and front seats and lockable cargo bed. Color options are the same, and the package is $1,200 higher than it was used to be. The SEL Premium costs nearly $10,000 more, mostly thanks to the turbocharged engine. The package also adds AWD, Activity package, LED lights and dual-zone climate control.
The top of the range model is the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited. It doesn’t add any new color option. However, the trim level is packed with the most advanced options the lineup is offering. That includes a larger touchscreen display, surround-view monitor, leather seats, more USB ports, ventilated front buckets, navigation and Bose audio. It is also safer than other models thanks to advanced systems the company deploys here. Still, paying $42,000 for a unibody pickup is not an easy pill to swallow if you ask truckers.
Verdict
The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz is still a new model in the market. The company is building up the reputation, but it is a long way to go before they can challenge top truckmakers. Their first model is going to rival Ford Maverick, the smallest pickup in the market.