Hyundai Revamps Santa Cruz with Bolder Design and Enhanced Capability [W/ Gallery + Video]



Hyundai has unveiled a significant refresh for the 2025 Santa Cruz, its popular Sport Adventure Vehicle. Debuting at the New York International Auto Show, the upgraded Santa Cruz boasts a bolder exterior design, a more capable XRT trim, and a host of technological advancements.

This update underscores the Santa Cruz's growing importance within Hyundai's lineup, as emphasized by both José Muñoz, president and Global COO of Hyundai Motor Company, and Olabisi Boyle, senior vice president of product planning and mobility strategy for Hyundai Motor North America.



2025 Santa Cruz New Enhancements and Available Features

XRT Trim (Specific Changes)

  • New XRT-exclusive front and rear bumper fascia designs
  • New XRT-exclusive front grille
  • Front tow hooks
  • Wrench-inspired XRT-specific 18-inch wheels
  • 245 / 60 R 18 all-terrain tires
  • Increased approach angle
  • XRT trim adds Surround View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor[i]
  • XRT logo debossing on front upper seatbacks


Exterior Changes

  • New front fascia  
  • New grille
  • New wheel designs
  • New daytime running lights

Interior Changes

In keeping with the more capable exterior, the upgraded Santa Cruz interior provides a high-tech image combined with increased functionality. The new panoramic curved display houses an optional 12.3-inch driver information cluster and available 12.3-inch audio-video navigation (AVN) system for an immersive digital experience. In addition, the center stack controls are more ergonomic, with additional physical switchgear for frequently used audio and HVAC functions. The strong horizontal and vertical shapes of the new instrument panel are consistent with Santa Cruz’s refreshed exterior changes while offering additional storage including a new shelf above the glovebox.

  • New instrument panel
  • New panoramic curved display houses an optional 12.3-inch driver information cluster and available 12.3-inch audio-video navigation (AVN) system
  • New audio/video/navigation and HVAC controls with switches and buttons
  • New steering wheel
  • New air vents
  • Rear seat center armrest with two cupholders


New Infotainment/Convenience Technology

  • Wireless Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto integration on all trim levels
  • Over the Air (OTA) software and firmware update support added[ii]
  • USB-Type-C ports
  • Bluelink+ Connected Car technology[iii]
  • Hyundai Pay in-car payment system[iv]
  • Integrated Memory System
  • Digital Key 2 Touch
  • Fingerprint scanner
  • New towing drive mode (2.5L turbocharged powertrain on Limited and XRT only)

 
Safety Technology

  • Forward Attention Warning (FAW)


New Color Choices

  • Rockwood Green and Canyon Red exterior color choices
  • Medium Gray seating surfaces

2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz: Powertrain Options and Capability

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz offers two engine choices, both paired with advanced transmissions for a balance of power, efficiency, and capability.

Standard Engine and Transmission:

  • 2.5-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine generating 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque.
  • Eight-speed automatic transmission for smooth and responsive gear changes.
  • This combination delivers a pleasurable driving experience and impressive fuel economy.

Turbocharged Option for Extra Power and Towing:

  • Upgraded 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine pumping out 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.
  • Eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) for a more engaging driving experience.
  • Steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters provide additional control when desired.
  • New for 2025, a tow mode optimizes performance when hauling trailers or heavy cargo.

All-Wheel Drive for All Conditions:

  • Both engine options can be equipped with HTRAC® all-wheel-drive for confident handling in various weather conditions and terrains.
  • This electronically-controlled system distributes torque between the front and rear axles for optimal traction.
  • A Sport setting provides a more dynamic driving experience by sending additional power to the rear wheels.
  • Towing capacity reaches up to 5,000 lbs with the turbocharged engine and AWD, making the Santa Cruz a capable companion for weekend adventures.

Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency or towing prowess, the 2025 Santa Cruz has a powertrain option to suit your needs. The available all-wheel-drive system adds further peace of mind and capability, making the Santa Cruz a versatile choice for any driver.


Comments