The 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz is officially classified as a compact unibody pickup truck rather than a traditional crossover SUV or body-on-frame truck. Built with an open composite cargo bed seamlessly integrated into a five-passenger passenger cabin, it delivers authentic pickup utility alongside the smooth ride, comfortable seating, and easy parking dynamics of a modern compact SUV.
For drivers weighing the choice between an everyday commuter vehicle and a versatile gear hauler, the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz occupies a distinct sweet spot. Traditional midsize and full-size trucks rely on rigid body-on-frame construction that often leads to a stiff, bouncy ride quality when the bed is empty. The Santa Cruz eliminates that compromise by pairing an open 4-foot composite cargo bed with a carlike unibody chassis. You gain the open-air haul capacity needed for hardware store runs, dirt bikes, or camping equipment without giving up the quiet interior and nimble handling required for daily traffic.
Inside the cabin, the Santa Cruz seats five adults comfortably with 102 cubic feet of passenger volume. Rather than feeling like a stark commercial work vehicle, the interior features standard synthetic leather upholstery, a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You get the rugged flexibility of a open cargo box combined with the refined cabin environment of a premium crossover.
If you are exploring whether this unique vehicle fits your lifestyle, our team at Great Lakes Hyundai of Dublin is here to help. You can visit our Billingsley Road showroom for a detailed walkaround or give us (614) 782-1029 to speak directly with an expert.
Is the Santa Cruz Built on a Truck Frame or a Car Frame, and How Is It Registered in Ohio?
Unlike traditional trucks, the Santa Cruz shares its unibody platform with the Hyundai Tucson crossover, blending car-like handling with pickup utility. In Ohio, state registration typically classifies the Santa Cruz as a standard passenger vehicle or non-commercial truck based on its declared weight, meaning owners enjoy regular passenger car license plates without commercial vehicle fees.
Understanding the engineering under the sheet metal explains why the Santa Cruz drives so differently from traditional trucks. Body-on-frame trucks attach a separate cab and cargo bed onto a heavy steel frame. Unibody construction forms the body and frame as a single, highly rigid structure made from advanced high-strength steel. This rigid foundation is paired with independent MacPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, allowing each wheel to react independently to bumps, potholes, and expansion joints.
The practical result is smooth, athletic handling that shines during daily driving. On a typical 20-mile highway commute along I-270 in Columbus, the Santa Cruz absorbs road imperfections with calm composure, filtering out body roll and tire chatter. The low step-in height makes getting in and out effortless for family members of all ages, while its tight 39.6-foot turning diameter allows you to maneuver through congested parking lots and fit into standard garages with ease.
This smart architectural foundation makes the Santa Cruz an exceptional alternative to larger, clunkier pickups for drivers who prioritize everyday comfort. You can explore our broad lineup of new Hyundai models to compare how this unibody design delivers maximum efficiency and agility.
What Are the Bed Dimensions and Cargo Features of the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz?
The 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz features a 4-foot composite cargo bed measuring 52 inches long, 54 inches wide at its widest point, and 43 inches wide between the wheel wells, providing 27 cubic feet of open storage space.
While a 52-inch bed is shorter than that of a full-size work truck, Hyundai designed the cargo box with multi-functional features that maximize every square inch:
- Heavy-Duty Sheet-Molded Composite Bed: The entire cargo bed is constructed from molded composite material that resists denting, rusting, and scratching, eliminating the need for an aftermarket drop-in bed liner.
- Lockable In-Bed Storage Trunk: Underneath the bed floor sits a sealed, weather-resistant storage compartment equipped with a built-in drain plug, allowing it to double as a secure tool vault or a drainable ice chest.
- Adjustable Tailgate & Plywood Support: The multi-functional tailgate can be secured in a half-open position aligned with the top of the wheel wells, enabling you to carry standard 4-by-8 sheets of plywood flat across the bed with cross-planks inserted into built-in molded slots.
- Integrated Rear Bumper Steps: Corner steps integrated directly into the rear bumper provide quick, comfortable foot holds to reach items near the cab.
- Utility Track System & Tie-Downs: Up to six heavy-duty D-ring tie-down points come standard, while upper trims add a dual C-channel utility track rail and cleat system for securing cargo.
- Factory Lockable Tonneau Cover & 115V Outlet: An available heavy-duty retractable aluminum tonneau cover seals the bed for weather-tight security, complemented by an available 115-volt bed power outlet for running electric tools or camping equipment.
When shoppers evaluate the Santa Cruz near Scioto River park trails in Dublin, they frequently ask whether the under-bed trunk is truly watertight before loading muddy kayaks or coolers. The sealed lid and rubber gasket keep moisture out, while pulling the bottom plug drains melted ice or rinse water in seconds.
For buyers looking at pre-owned alternatives, reviewing our pre-owned vehicle options is a great way to explore different bed setups and utility configurations.
Dimensions & Capacity
Capacity and dimensions by trim
| Feature | SE 2.5 | SE 2.5 AWD | SEL Activity 2.5 | SEL Activity 2.5 AWD | XRT 2.5 AWD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| :-- | :-- | :-- | :-- | :-- | :-- |
| Seating | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 27.0 cu ft | 27.0 cu ft | 27.0 cu ft | 27.0 cu ft | 27.0 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 3,785 lbs | 3,931 lbs | 3,900 lbs | 4,045 lbs | 4,160 lbs |
| Towing | 3,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Payload | 1,738 lbs | 1,735 lbs | 1,623 lbs | 1,621 lbs | 1,638 lbs |
How Much Weight Can You Carry and Tow with a Santa Cruz?
The 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz delivers a maximum payload capacity of 1,411 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped with the turbocharged engine.
Payload capacity covers the combined weight of passengers in the cabin and cargo in the bed. The composite cargo bed itself is rated to hold approximately 600 lbs of gear, leaving the remaining capacity for cabin occupants and items stored under the rear seats. Self-leveling rear suspension comes standard across every trim, automatically adjusting ride height when heavy cargo is loaded into the rear bed to preserve balanced steering and headlight alignment.
Towing performance is defined by your powertrain selection:
- 2.5L Four-Cylinder Engine: Standard on the SE and SEL Activity trims, this engine produces 191 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque paired with an 8-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic transmission. In both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, this setup is rated to tow up to 3,500 lbs with trailer brakes, making it ideal for small utility trailers, jet skis, or lightweight pop-up campers.
- 2.5L Turbocharged Engine: Standard on the rugged XRT trim, this turbocharged powerplant generates 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. Matched with standard all-wheel drive and a dedicated Tow Mode, it raises maximum towing capacity to 5,000 lbs, providing the muscle needed for ski boats, enclosed cargo trailers, or double-axle camper trailers.
Whether you plan to tow a fishing boat on weekends or haul gardening soil for home projects, selecting the right powertrain ensures smooth acceleration and confident braking. You can browse our certified pre-owned inventory to see late-model utility options backed by comprehensive factory coverage.
Engine & Performance
Powertrain specs by trim
| Feature | SE 2.5 | SE 2.5 AWD | SEL Activity 2.5 | SEL Activity 2.5 AWD | XRT 2.5 AWD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| :-- | :-- | :-- | :-- | :-- | :-- |
| Engine | 2.5L | 2.5L | 2.5L | 2.5L | 2.5L |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 191 hp | 191 hp | 191 hp | 281 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | SHIFTRONIC | SHIFTRONIC | SHIFTRONIC | SHIFTRONIC | SHIFTRONIC |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
Does the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz Have All-Wheel Drive for Columbus Winter Driving?
Yes, the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz offers available HTRAC All-Wheel Drive on the SE and SEL Activity trims, while making it standard equipment on the XRT trim.
Central Ohio winters bring unpredictable weather, ranging from freezing rain and slush to heavy snowfall and icy morning commutes. Hyundai's HTRAC All-Wheel Drive system uses an electro-mechanical clutch to continuously monitor vehicle speed, wheel traction, and driver inputs. Under clear highway conditions, power is directed primarily to the front wheels to maximize fuel efficiency. The moment sensors detect wheel slip on snow or ice, the system active-couples power to the rear wheels, distributing torque variable between front and rear axles to maintain stability.
The off-road-oriented XRT trim enhances winter capability with standard Terrain Mode Select, allowing you to engage dedicated Snow, Mud, or Sand modes to recalibrate throttle response and traction control parameters. Additional cold-weather comfort features available across the lineup include:
- Heated Front Seats: Three-stage heated seats quickly warm cabin occupants on frigid mornings.
- Heated Side Mirrors: Integrated heating elements melt ice and clear frost from side mirrors automatically.
- Self-Leveling Rear Suspension: Keeps the rear end elevated and stable when navigating deep snow drifts with cargo in the bed.
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist: Includes pedestrian and cyclist detection to monitor slick intersections.
Before winter weather arrives, evaluating your current vehicle's trade value toward an all-wheel-drive model is quick and straightforward. You can secure a cash value estimate using our trade-in cash offer online tool.
Which 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz Trim Best Fits Your Commute and Weekend Trips?
The 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz lineup is streamlined into three distinct trim levels— SE, SEL Activity, and XRT—with a starting base MSRP of $30,300 for the entry SE trim and $42,775 for the range-topping turbocharged XRT.
Santa Cruz SE
The SE trim serves as an accessible entry point equipped with the 191-hp 2.5L four-cylinder engine. Standard features include a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, stain-resistant cloth seating, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a comprehensive Hyundai SmartSense safety suite featuring Lane Keeping Assist and Blind-Spot Collision Warning.
Santa Cruz SEL Activity
The SEL Activity adds popular convenience and bed technology upgrades. It features the factory integrated tonneau cover, dual C-channel utility track rail system, 115V bed power outlet, LED bed lighting, a power tilt-and-slide sunroof, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless device charging, an 8-way power driver seat with lumbar support, and heated front seats wrapped in durable H-Tex synthetic leather.
Santa Cruz XRT
The rugged XRT trim is tailored for drivers seeking maximum power and off-road style. It comes standard with the 281 hp turbocharged engine, HTRAC All-Wheel Drive, 18-inch XRT alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, exposed front tow hooks, exclusive dark exterior cladding, a dark chrome grille, a Bose premium audio system, a heated steering wheel, Smart Cruise Control 2 with Stop & Go, and a 5,000 lbs towing capacity.
Every new 2027 Santa Cruz comes protected by America's Best Warranty, including a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty, and 3 years or 36,000 miles of complimentary factory maintenance.
When you are ready to compare monthly budget options, you can get pre-qualified in minutes by completing our online finance application.
Pricing
Pricing by trim
| Feature | SE 2.5 | SE 2.5 AWD | SEL Activity 2.5 | SEL Activity 2.5 AWD | XRT 2.5 AWD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| :-- | :-- | :-- | :-- | :-- | :-- |
| Base MSRP | $30,300 | $31,800 | $34,700 | $36,200 | $42,775 |
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Q: Is the under-bed trunk in the Santa Cruz waterproof and drainable?
Yes, the lockable under-bed storage compartment features a rubber weather seal that keeps out water, dirt, and road grime. It includes a removable drain plug at the bottom, making it easy to wash out after storing muddy outdoor gear or to use as an in-bed cooler filled with ice.
Q: Does the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz require a trailer brake controller for maximum towing?
Yes, reaching the maximum 5,000 lbs towing capacity on turbocharged trims requires a trailer equipped with trailer brakes and an installed trailer brake controller. The Santa Cruz comes pre-wired for 4-pin or 7-pin trailer harnesses depending on trim configuration.
Q: Can the Santa Cruz fit 4-by-8 sheets of drywall or plywood in its cargo bed?
Yes. By unlatching the tailgate support cables and placing the tailgate into its self-adjusting half-open position, the top of the tailgate aligns level with the wheel housings inside the bed. Placing two 2-by-4 boards into the bed's molded side slots creates a flat elevated platform that supports 4-by-8 sheets above the wheel wells.
Q: What standard driver-assist safety features are included on the 2027 Santa Cruz?
Standard Hyundai SmartSense features across all trims include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and Safe Exit Warning.
Q: What connectivity services come included with the 12.3-inch touchscreen display?
Every 2027 Santa Cruz includes standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Bluetooth hands-free streaming, dual front USB-C ports, and standard Bluelink+ connected car services, which allow you to remotely start the engine and lock or unlock doors via a compatible smartphone included with purchase.
Prices and MSRP referenced in this article are estimates for informational purposes only and do not constitute an offer to sell. See dealer for complete details. Fuel economy estimates shown may differ from official EPA ratings and should not be relied upon as a guarantee of actual vehicle performance.
