We love ours, had it a month. I forget its got a bed. It drives fine and gas mileage is great compared to any 1500 or larger truck Carrying my wet float tube, rods, fins, waders and gear is a snap. Had the trailer hitch put on so I could carry our bikes on the rack leaving more room in the bed. Looks nice, haters gonna hate. This rides so much better than box on frame truck and, ive had several. Its an eye catcher for sure lots and lots of looks and questions.. .
Where’d you get a hitch? I can’t find a Hyundai hitch for a 22 Tucson and third party ones show an eta of next June. I’m thinking the Tucson and Santa Cruz hitches aren’t interchangeable but I’m surprised you found one so fast. Ignore the Hyundai bigots. Their beloved Toyotas were lampooned for a long tim in the US too. Hyundai has come an extremely long way and look to be living up to their CEO’s pledge 12 years ago to be a top notch brand in 10 years.
Noooooo. A longer bed would ruin it. That's exactly why people want it, so they don't have to drive an oil tanker. If the size of the bed is a concern, this is not the vehicle for you. The "bigger bigger bigger" trend is ruining cars today.
Really, you complained about the bed!!!! This will carry a refrigerator, stove, washer/dryer, bricks, bags of cement. I have a Chevy s10 and a Isuzu I290 and the Santa Cruz can do what my my trucks can do.PS I now own a Santa Cruz and I LOVE IT.
Traded in my 2016 convertible Mustang for the blue Santa Cruz SEL with Activity AWD. Absolutely love it! Drives smoothly. One of the greatest things is that our 6'3" daughter fits COMFORTABLY in the back seat with headroom and legroom! The small truck bed is perfect for our trips fishing and golfing and for hauling items for our client events. So far, super happy.
My wife and I got our SEL all wheel drive last week. We love it!! It’s great to drive totally comfortable to drive or ride in in the versatility of the bed and the tonneau cover Makes it perfect. We ordered it in sage gray and Wife just loves the color. It has plenty of storage space. It has plenty of legroom. She loves the heated seats, the moon roof. I think the sliding rear window is something of a joke. My license plate is bigger! I wanted this vehicle from the first time I watched a video of it. We test drove it six or eight weeks ago and waited what seems like forever for it to arrive. We traded in a 2017 Santa Fe without any regret.
One thing I can say about Hyundia is the engines hold up pretty well, I have a 2010 hyundia elantra I purchased last year 2020 with 195k. At the end of 2021 It now has 241k with no issues, man these engines are pretty good
383k 4 dr accent. 5 speed. No major problems. Keep oil changed. Mine called for the timing belt to be changed every 85 thousand miles. Which I did. Great little car. Been waiting for Hyundai to make a pick up. This will be my next vehicle.
Love my 2011 Sonata that we bought used. I am really, REALLY loving this truck. We used to have a Mazda extra cab B2000--- smaller pickups are so versatile; they've long been missed, I think.
Good balanced review. I am retired from construction and I thought having a truck was a waste so I got rid of mine. As an avid gardener, every once in a while I need a truck, and I miss mine greatly. The last time I carried some chicken manure in the back of my car, it stunk for a week. This is the perfect solution and it looks sharp enough to get my wife's approval.
Loved it so much after test driving it I traded my 6 month old Tacoma for an Ultimate Trim here is Canada. It's just a better daily driver than a body on frame truck. Not to mention its loaded with features. And like other have pointed out you completely forget there's a bed in the back. It's fantastic.
@Shredder such an overblown story. This is so rare the Dodo Birds are laughing. And Hyundai has a 10 year power train warranty. So yeah, not a worry at all. Now if you mean the Fords on the side of the road? Yep, that's something to worry about.
Do you enjoy the interior more? Ive been looking at both, tacoma interior just feels so mehh, and gear hunting seems annoying. Havent been able to look at a SC yet.
@@regen3rate my whole experience with the Tacoma was a let down. It's a truck, it has an interior like a truck, it rides like a truck, it gets terrible fuel economy. It just wasn't for me. If you NEED a truck for work, towing or offroading and you can live with the trade-offs then go for it. I just could live with it day to day.
The driving & handling ability of this vehicle is great. The safety features are numerous & well designed. The interior comfort & features are outstanding. The body design turns heads everywhere I go: Nothing but thumbs up, honks, & compliments in parking lots. The truck bed is more than enough for the average weekend warrior... I waited for over a year for this vehicle to go into production. It was worth the wait! One last thing: All manufacturers "claim" theirs is the best. Hyundai backs up their talk with the best warranty in the industry.
I'm waiting for my Ultimate trim to show up from the factory, I'm still in the waiting list, but my number's are dropping, I'm still really excited for it!!
That is a fair review. I don’t care too much about the minor objections you raised - and, in fact, like the piano black screen. I agree with the Pros you list and love my new Santa Cruz. Plus, it’s a looker. I’ve owned MBs, Bimmers, Porsches, and multiple sports cars, and I have gotten more raves from folks about the Santa Cruz than about ANY of them. Folks think it looks cool, and is cool. They’re right, it is!
Going in for one of these. Mine would be the premium trim so a lot applies here. Your demo was very good and will show folks an honest evaluation which I appreciate. Thank you….
I just got it today!!!!! It is smooth drive. I got the SEL which is a Lower trim but the dealer did add about 3-4 accessories which was sweet! It’s a beauty and definitely gets a lot of looks.
I used to have a 2004 Tacoma 4 door truck, perfect size... Sold it with over 200K miles, bought a used 2014 Tacoma 4 door truck ITS TOO BIG... Its as big as my old Dodge RAM truck. My 04 Tacoma had a 5' bed, this Santa Cruz at 4'3" I can deal with that.. plus a 10 year warranty and over 22 mpg... My Tacoma is for sale now...
2000+ miles into my new limited Santa Cruz and I have to say, THIS THING IS AWESOME! I spent about 20 hours in research before purchasing mine in Somersworth, NH and its still more car/truck/SUV than I had expected. It’s a very luxurious sports car with tons of power... has the interior space and convenience of an SUV... as well as a super functional truck bed for most of your home, yard, work and play/hobbie/activity needs and tasks. Hyundai nailed it on this one. Everywhere I go this thing is snapping heads around. Great overall value. I highly recommend checking this thing out if your even moderately interested or even curious... you won’t be disappointed.
@@kens8903 Yes, my “limited” edition does have the turbo (which provides an impressive amount of acceleration). As for mileage on the highway, it really depends on how fast I’m driving. The sweet spot is between 55-65 mph. At that speed range (with the drivetrain set to “Smart”) I average between 29-31 miles per gallon. Conversely, at cruising speeds of between 70-80 mph, the fuel efficiency drops off noticeably… down to about 26-28 miles per gallon.
@@jeffreyeallardjr Thank you! I’m really considering the non-turbo version or the Ford maverick(even though I’ve had nothing but bad luck with the boards in the past, still hopeful) I have a outlander sport, mostly do highways driving and it gets about 30mpg
I’ve never heard of this car until I saw it in the road yesterday…!!! It looked very nice when I saw it. Definitely wouldn’t mind seeing it in person tho
The throttle response thing saying that you had probably has something to do with the turbo, my dad has the santa Cruz limited with the turbo and he has said something about that as well and that tonneau cover works really nicely to start with but after a little while of using it it gets harder to use I think a little bit of like 3 in 1 or WD-40 would probably fix that just to make it slide nicer. Thanks for the great content😊
It has a lot to offer but I wish it had a hybrid option. For some of us it is a perfect size and all the luxuries are icing on the cake. The Maverick is very basic and I admire that, they both should sell very well.
I agree with you that I don’t like all push buttons, plus it’s more dangerous while driving. One reason I love my Tacoma is all the tactile dial’s and knobs.
I just got a Limited. I always get leather seats, even in a car like this...Yes, the double clutch shifts and sounds almost like a manual transmission shifting, I am glad you mentioned it since I drive luxury cars and had not experienced that sound and sensation for a long time and thought something was wrong. The little turbo power to weight is lopsided, the car jumps like a rice burner, very fast off the line. The reason the bed seems shorter is the tonneau cover, it takes out 25% of the bed length, but getting rid of that would also sacrifice the lockable storage space. A compromise. I also wanted the 5,000 lbs towing, and you gotta have this trim level to get that, all wheel plus the turbo. I will not install trailer brakes though, I just want to be able to have a capable trailer that can tow pretty much anything, and that is how I would haul around the big stuff, not in the bed. The times you need that do not justify a PU truck (I have owned many, including an F250) which is another reason I like this concept. That's if you are not in the trades. It is a decent compromise, car yet just enough PU bed to get most things you can't fit in an SUV or would want to... For those wondering where to get the hitch, U-Haul will install one for about $450 all in, but I want a Curt and the wiring kit for that brand, so I bought it myself on Amazon and will install it myself. Also, remember to drive it under 4k rpm and dont use the cruise control for the first 1000 miles to give a good break-in, no trailer towing during that either. I have about 400 mi on mine so far.
I have the limited , and I LOVE IT! I have owned soooo many new vehicles, but this one blows me away! I love the shorter bed. I am a 61 year old home care nurse. So, I have to carry alot of stuff. BUT a long truck bed is not user friendly fir someone who has limited mobility. I can easily reach all my medical gear in this most fantastic vehicle. Ok. You don't like the all black " face plate" due to the possibility that scratches will show up easier. I got that problem " nipped in the bud." I ordered a screen protector on Amazon. Easy peasy!!
If I look at it as a compact pickup, $40K is rather stiff. If I see it as a SUV, with a bed thrown in, it's not so bad a price. I just can't get used to the idea of paying sticker, or more, for a new ride. Maybe it's the new reality of car buying, at least for a while.
You may not like the DCT, but remember, it adds 6 to 10 percent in gas mileage. Probably why the turbo awd only gets a mile less per gallon. I love mine!
Excellent review - very fair. I have the LImited ordered, and it's coming in in a few weeks. Trading in my Dodge RAM 1500 which I love, but don't like the MPG - 9 mpg around town, 14 if I take it to work. And I really don't need a truck that big. This just checks off all the boxes for me. I can still carry home plywood or drywall, large applicances, etc. and with the towing capacity of the Limited of 5000 pounds, I'm more than good. Out of all the cons about the car, my biggest complaint is the piano black center console with no knobs or buttons and manual adjustable front passenger seat.
Just bought the same color. 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL with Activity Package. The truck bed doesn’t bother me at all. I don’t need to haul anything huge or carry excessive ego. I spend my time heading to Anna Maria Island, St. Augustine, St. Pete and Key West so it’s perfect. Then for concerts it works with the cooler under the flat bed.
I like it's funky styling. You won't lose this in a parking lot and I think in a world dominated by blah crossovers and SUVs, having this thing would be pretty fun. If only Subaru would bring back the Baja to rival this thing that would be great!
I have the limited and my transmission Shifts smoothly all the time. Maybe it’s a problem with your tester? The piano black looks pretty and drives me crazy dusting it… No knobs is not a issue. Volume controls are right on the steering wheel. I love the truck
This thing is a slam dunk styling wise. Personally, I'm waiting for the PHEV version (2023? .. cross my fingers), that would make it perfect all around.
I'm definitely looking at one of these in the coming months. Hoping that the back seat leg room is good enough for my two little ones. Definitely in the limited. I test drive the standard se model and honestly bit felt very sluggish. I have this engine and trans in my wife's Sorrento sx and gotta say it's a nice powerful 4 cylinder. My only gripe is that it has little lag once you hit the gas, but honestly it's not a sports car so it's not a huge problem
2:52 dude you're complaining about the 'bed size' and you have a single back pack shown in the bed... Question... of all the FULL SIZED trucks you see on the road today... How many are the beds EMPTY? Of all the FULL SIZED TRUCKS on the road.. how many will EVERY tow ANYTHING in its entire life... less than 10% Im betting. This truck is really all that 75% of the people out there need.
Bull hockey! Got 6k on my Sel Prem 2.5 turbo the dash is a pain to keep clean but it doesn't scratch! But you do have to keep a dust off . Our came with 125 warranty and free oil changes and State inspections! Its really fast 6.2 to 60. Pain in the ass is getting a tow package. U Haul can get the #3 total 7 pin with Brake control for $700.00 out the door. Installed Dealer is a rip off of over 1k plus ! It pulls my 18 ft Satellite with tip out water tank full and gear like it's not even hooked up. Of course the 31 mpg goes away to about 15 to 20 depending beach or mountains. Need the sway bar too . I didn't take any chances. I am a 65 year old Hot Roder and retired 5 million miles Pro Driver and I love this little Hot Wheels! Take it from a long time Ford guy ! Ford really drug their feet on the Maverick and I had been following this a long time... trust me Ford isn't going to give even close to a 100k warranty and never a 125. One . Free oil changes and inspections add up . Hyundai even washes the car for me when I come in kool right! We really Love this SAV IT FITS A RETIRED LIFESTYLE OF A TRUCKER. AS FOR THE SHOE BOX WITH EYES! CHEAPER IS AS CHEAPER DOSE .
I really want one of these! I always wanted a Baja when Subaru had those, but they had stopped making them by the time I could get one. I loved my Hyundai Accent when I had one, so this seems perfect for me. Only thing is I'm two years in on a 2019 Buick Encore. I'm really considering trading it in on one of these.
I really want to hear your thoughts and reviews on the new Maverick as well. Particularly the hybrid models. Do you plan to review that one? This was a superb video as always.
Thank you very much! Yes I hope to get ahold of a Maverick but I’m not sure when. I’ll try to get one for a quick video from a dealership and if I get one for a week I’ll definitely do a couple videos on that one 👍
I'm impressed by the content and 5,000 lb towing capacity for the AWD version. I wonder if the DCT smooths out with time. We have a base Macan and the DCT bothered me at first but it seems to have smoothed out to the point that I don't notice it.
Note that 5k towing needs the turbo engine, not just AWD. You can only get the turbo in the SEL Premium and Limited trims in the US. The SEL AWD, for example, is only rated for 3500lbs.
been waiting a year for the maverick hybrid and i am seeing these in more availability due to their being built in montgomery plant. the mpg on the non turbo at 21 seems better than a tacoma, but just seems rather low even for the ecoboost maverick comparison. the sc has approx same mpg as a jeep wrangler
I am ALL IN with this Santa Cruz. Hyundai really has it's finger on the pulse of styling, affordability and what folks like me want and sometimes need. As is stated, there is A LOT that goes into the Santa Cruz as far as features go. Just to see the rear bed and it's options for carrying plywood and/or sheetrock, with level bilateral bases to keep the items flat and secure with built in tie downs is very hip ! Like I said, I am ALL IN and I bet it is, if you will pardom the expression, a "chick magnet" ! Put, a yellow or black Lab's drooling happy face, ears flapping in the wind, and the ladies will be pulling up next to you throwing their phone numbers at you !
What features are standard on the SE? Do you have to go all the way up to premium trim to get cruise control, blind side monitoring, the 360 degree camera?
Blind spot monitors and 360 view are only on the top trim in the USA. Don't know about cruise control I'll bet it's on everything but adaptive cruise control is only on The limited top model.
@Shredder Hmmm, compared to what? A 68 Buick? Pretty much all modern engines are very reliable if reasonably maintained. I can tell you for a fact the only engine in any car I’ve ever owned that had a serious problem was a 2006 Scion tC (a Toyota) and it was because my son didn’t maintain the oil. That car had perhaps the most deployed and reliable Toyota engine ever made in it. If your assertion is you buy a Taco because of the engine, I’ve got some great swampland for you to build a house on. I doubt 2% of people decide on their car purchases based on the reliability of the engine over the leather, stereo, color, or price.
Bought SEL trim fwd and I use it for work. The bed could be like another 6 or 8in longer but is extremely practical for me. Drives beautifully and very nice inside. I do agree with the black piano console, it sucks for dust. Not many cons and I overall love it. Its better then the wifes 2021 Rav4.
i honestly love the interior, i am not by any means an import guy. i currently own a 18 ford focus st, and i love the cars but looking to get something a bit more rugged and off road worthy while retaining that sports car interior feel. the slick black overlaying everything in combination with illuminated touch is a stellar combo. Regale and sleek, the interior reminds you something of a brand new MB or BMW. I don't understand why people want a physical protruding button over a slick surface. some reviews have mentioned not being to feel the button while driving and having to look to make sure its being pressed, well more than half the population looks down at their phone while driving... so what are we really complaining about here? the info-tainment system looks great and classy, also that makes cleaning the surface incredibly easy. I've pretty much convinced myself to get one, that is pretty obvious. lol
I haven't found anyone who makes a bed cap yet. Sometimes I need one for taller items and need them to stay dry. I hate the way caps look but at times they are useful
Couldn't find a limited without a 5k markup around here so bought a SEL premium I love driving this thing and very compatible with phone and Spotify etc. Just pissed it doesn't have better tek on all the trims. No adaptive cruise control on mine, no blind spot camera monitors, and questionable Lane keep assist and emergency front and rear braking. Still this Ute is comfortable quick and nimble so I will give it a thumbs up so far.
Don’t know where you live, obviously, but I found dealers in NJ, MD, eastern NY all gouging. Western NY, no add on or a very small one. I just bought a Tucson Limited PHEV with $180 add on, after turning down 5 others with add ins from $1,800 to $4,000 and RAV4 Primes with $3,000-5,000 tacked on.
To follow up this thing is really comfortable and quiet as well as quick. Will let you back into a parked car without so much as a warning unless car is moving - wierd Hyundai. Overall a winner and head turner. Got lots of positive comments from from people seeing it for first time. Sport mode actually makes a difference unlike my last car. Also the trunk turned out to be the perfect place to store tools. Took out the back seat under seat storage so I can carry groceries on the floor with saet up. Thumbs up overall.
Did you give tow capacity and tounge weight. I really want one of these rigs. Towing a small camper ( tear drop or possibly small casita ) is a must. I'm assuming that theres an awd option ? Definitely think some bfg all terain radials would look killer. Thanks.
I love mine. It’s perfect and it pretty much self drives on the interstate. Mine isn’t jerky. I’ve driven them before. I have the limited. You have volume in the steering wheel. I have this color too. No to the longer bed. If you need that then you should buy a truck with it. The short bed is what I love.
We have an sel and we love it. My only complaint is the infotainment system is so technical I can’t understand. It. We traded a Nissan Rogue sl and that had a really user friendly media system. Anyway, we love the Santa Cruz.
I have the SE, and I'm SO glad I didnt spend thousands more for things I dont need and things that are more likely to break. I dont need heated seats and steering wheel. I dont need power seat, because once I set the seat, it never moves again. I have a VOLUME CONTROL on my SE. Since I know how to drive, having done that for 50 years, I DONT NEED THE CAR TO DRIVE ME. I dont need camera's and warnings and all that crap. When I drive, I DRIVE, watching every move going on around me. So if you dont need all those bells and whistles, get the SE AND SAVE MANY THOUSANDS!
Really like our limited my dislike is that it doesn’t have auto folding outside mirrors and the rear window slider is manual. A power slider would have been great addition. Other then that very happy.
You could also get the activity package on the SEL and still get all the cool add-ons. I got the SEL myself but couldn’t afford the activity. But we take what we can get.
A 6 foot cargo bed will be a very good space yet 4 feet okay good enough since it is a mid size truck. And of course in my own opinion hyundai is very good in aesthetics. it looks pretty to me
Nice job, I like it would I buy it, I don't like the black either, those button's look like a pain in the ass. Is 2022 the frist Year? I don't remember seeing them before. With big tires they look sharp, I like comfort.
Nice review. I so agree about the bed length. I think this would just frustrate me. But the bigger question is why we must have FOUR doors on a truck. Get rid of the sedan back seats and lengthen the bed!
@@peytonzahnd598 yes we did. It was only the base model. Couldn't ever get our rear ends in the higher trim. It was enough for us to land on a '22 Santa Fe Calligraphy instead. Thanks for asking
How much room is there in that front passenger seat in front of the rear-facing car seat? That’s my only concern keeping me from pulling the trigger on this.
The DRL strobe that you are seeing is a desyncing of the LED’s display rate vs the cameras recording frame right. It’s not something you would see with your own eyes, just the camera
I hate that the limited doesn’t have wireless CarPlay. I agree with you on the rest except for the longer bed. Some of us don’t have the space for a larger vehicle so the Santa Cruz is the perfect size for me
You missed a nice plus that a lot of buyers would be looking for and that is the towing capacity. It can tow 3500 lbs and the turbo can tow 5,000 lbs, which would allow the towing of smaller RV’s, boats, or some toys. Compared to the Ford Maverick which can tow 3,000 & 4,000 lbs, the Santa Cruz has the Maverick beat.
The Ridgeline does have vents in the backseat. It actually also has Tri Climate control so the occupants in the back can have their own specific temperature while the driver and passenger can also has their own temperature to their liking. When it comes to interior comfort, the Ridgeline wins hands down.
We love ours, had it a month. I forget its got a bed. It drives fine and gas mileage is great compared to any 1500 or larger truck Carrying my wet float tube, rods, fins, waders and gear is a snap. Had the trailer hitch put on so I could carry our bikes on the rack leaving more room in the bed. Looks nice, haters gonna hate. This rides so much better than box on frame truck and, ive had several. Its an eye catcher for sure lots and lots of looks and questions.. .
Where’d you get a hitch? I can’t find a Hyundai hitch for a 22 Tucson and third party ones show an eta of next June. I’m thinking the Tucson and Santa Cruz hitches aren’t interchangeable but I’m surprised you found one so fast.
Ignore the Hyundai bigots. Their beloved Toyotas were lampooned for a long tim in the US too. Hyundai has come an extremely long way and look to be living up to their CEO’s pledge 12 years ago to be a top notch brand in 10 years.
@@JohnCap523 i found it at a dealer in La Puente Ca. They didn't have the harness yet, still on a boat off the coast. Good luck.
Looks like Hyundai and Ford want their share of the truck that been spoiling urban truck people. Yea, the Ridgeline.
Noooooo. A longer bed would ruin it. That's exactly why people want it, so they don't have to drive an oil tanker. If the size of the bed is a concern, this is not the vehicle for you. The "bigger bigger bigger" trend is ruining cars today.
Amen
On point👌
just a Lil longer wouldn't hurt
@@lavapop1900 That’s what she said
A bed extender adds appx 2 feet, now 6 foot bed, $229 on Amazon
Loving the blind spot monitors that come on with the turn signals. All vehicles should have that.
Really, you complained about the bed!!!! This will carry a refrigerator, stove, washer/dryer, bricks, bags of cement. I have a Chevy s10 and a Isuzu I290 and the Santa Cruz can do what my my trucks can do.PS I now own a Santa Cruz and I LOVE IT.
Did you pay over the sticker price?
I can't find any Santa Cruz is St Louis
Traded in my 2016 convertible Mustang for the blue Santa Cruz SEL with Activity AWD. Absolutely love it! Drives smoothly. One of the greatest things is that our 6'3" daughter fits COMFORTABLY in the back seat with headroom and legroom! The small truck bed is perfect for our trips fishing and golfing and for hauling items for our client events. So far, super happy.
My wife and I got our SEL all wheel drive last week. We love it!! It’s great to drive totally comfortable to drive or ride in in the versatility of the bed and the tonneau cover Makes it perfect. We ordered it in sage gray and Wife just loves the color. It has plenty of storage space. It has plenty of legroom. She loves the heated seats, the moon roof. I think the sliding rear window is something of a joke. My license plate is bigger! I wanted this vehicle from the first time I watched a video of it. We test drove it six or eight weeks ago and waited what seems like forever for it to arrive. We traded in a 2017 Santa Fe without any regret.
I've been on wait list for a sage grey limited for ages now, I'm getting closer and closer to just giving in and taking it in a different color.
One thing I can say about Hyundia is the engines hold up pretty well, I have a 2010 hyundia elantra I purchased last year 2020 with 195k. At the end of 2021 It now has 241k with no issues, man these engines are pretty good
Have a 2011 Hyundai Sonata, and other than the starter, everything has held up well despite a lot of abuse.
if anyyyyyone can top this w high miles plz post it and that would be 'trouble-free' holycow 241k!! it dont get much better than that congrats man!!
383k 4 dr accent. 5 speed. No major problems. Keep oil changed. Mine called for the timing belt to be changed every 85 thousand miles. Which I did. Great little car. Been waiting for Hyundai to make a pick up. This will be my next vehicle.
Love my 2011 Sonata that we bought used. I am really, REALLY loving this truck. We used to have a Mazda extra cab B2000--- smaller pickups are so versatile; they've long been missed, I think.
Small update, car currently has 251k and still going strong ☺️
Good balanced review. I am retired from construction and I thought having a truck was a waste so I got rid of mine. As an avid gardener, every once in a while I need a truck, and I miss mine greatly. The last time I carried some chicken manure in the back of my car, it stunk for a week. This is the perfect solution and it looks sharp enough to get my wife's approval.
Loved it so much after test driving it I traded my 6 month old Tacoma for an Ultimate Trim here is Canada. It's just a better daily driver than a body on frame truck. Not to mention its loaded with features. And like other have pointed out you completely forget there's a bed in the back. It's fantastic.
@Shredder I'm no mechanic so why do you say that? Also I believe Hyundai has a 5-year powertrain warranty.
@Shredder such an overblown story. This is so rare the Dodo Birds are laughing. And Hyundai has a 10 year power train warranty. So yeah, not a worry at all. Now if you mean the Fords on the side of the road? Yep, that's something to worry about.
@@jimji2774 Because he’s a Toyota fanboy and just loves his drum brakes and faux leather.
Do you enjoy the interior more? Ive been looking at both, tacoma interior just feels so mehh, and gear hunting seems annoying. Havent been able to look at a SC yet.
@@regen3rate my whole experience with the Tacoma was a let down. It's a truck, it has an interior like a truck, it rides like a truck, it gets terrible fuel economy. It just wasn't for me. If you NEED a truck for work, towing or offroading and you can live with the trade-offs then go for it. I just could live with it day to day.
The driving & handling ability of this vehicle is great. The safety features are numerous & well designed. The interior comfort & features are outstanding. The body design turns heads everywhere I go: Nothing but thumbs up, honks, & compliments in parking lots. The truck bed is more than enough for the average weekend warrior...
I waited for over a year for this vehicle to go into production. It was worth the wait!
One last thing: All manufacturers "claim" theirs is the best. Hyundai backs up their talk with the best warranty in the industry.
I'm waiting for my Ultimate trim to show up from the factory, I'm still in the waiting list, but my number's are dropping, I'm still really excited for it!!
That is a fair review. I don’t care too much about the minor objections you raised - and, in fact, like the piano black screen. I agree with the Pros you list and love my new Santa Cruz. Plus, it’s a looker. I’ve owned MBs, Bimmers, Porsches, and multiple sports cars, and I have gotten more raves from folks about the Santa Cruz than about ANY of them. Folks think it looks cool, and is cool. They’re right, it is!
Going in for one of these. Mine would be the premium trim so a lot applies here. Your demo was very good and will show folks an honest evaluation which I appreciate. Thank you….
I just got it today!!!!! It is smooth drive. I got the SEL which is a Lower trim but the dealer did add about 3-4 accessories which was sweet! It’s a beauty and definitely gets a lot of looks.
I used to have a 2004 Tacoma 4 door truck, perfect size... Sold it with over 200K miles, bought a used 2014 Tacoma 4 door truck ITS TOO BIG... Its as big as my old Dodge RAM truck. My 04 Tacoma had a 5' bed, this Santa Cruz at 4'3" I can deal with that.. plus a 10 year warranty and over 22 mpg... My Tacoma is for sale now...
I’d wait for the hybrid or PHEV. Mileage will be nearly double and a lot zippier.
2000+ miles into my new limited Santa Cruz and I have to say, THIS THING IS AWESOME! I spent about 20 hours in research before purchasing mine in Somersworth, NH and its still more car/truck/SUV than I had expected. It’s a very luxurious sports car with tons of power... has the interior space and convenience of an SUV... as well as a super functional truck bed for most of your home, yard, work and play/hobbie/activity needs and tasks. Hyundai nailed it on this one. Everywhere I go this thing is snapping heads around. Great overall value. I highly recommend checking this thing out if your even moderately interested or even curious... you won’t be disappointed.
I really want one. But I need something with more Towing capability
Does yours have the turbo? Also, what’s your mileage like on the highway?
@@kens8903 Yes, my “limited” edition does have the turbo (which provides an impressive amount of acceleration). As for mileage on the highway, it really depends on how fast I’m driving. The sweet spot is between 55-65 mph. At that speed range (with the drivetrain set to “Smart”) I average between 29-31 miles per gallon. Conversely, at cruising speeds of between 70-80 mph, the fuel efficiency drops off noticeably… down to about 26-28 miles per gallon.
@@jeffreyeallardjr Thank you! I’m really considering the non-turbo version or the Ford maverick(even though I’ve had nothing but bad luck with the boards in the past, still hopeful) I have a outlander sport, mostly do highways driving and it gets about 30mpg
I’ve never heard of this car until I saw it in the road yesterday…!!! It looked very nice when I saw it. Definitely wouldn’t mind seeing it in person tho
Love your great honest review Nolan
Keep up the good work
Thank you very much Miguel!
The throttle response thing saying that you had probably has something to do with the turbo, my dad has the santa Cruz limited with the turbo and he has said something about that as well and that tonneau cover works really nicely to start with but after a little while of using it it gets harder to use I think a little bit of like 3 in 1 or WD-40 would probably fix that just to make it slide nicer.
Thanks for the great content😊
I had the jerky when I first got my Limited. Now I tap the throttle quick short taps and it moves much smoother.
It has a lot to offer but I wish it had a hybrid option. For some of us it is a perfect size and all the luxuries are icing on the cake. The Maverick is very basic and I admire that, they both should sell very well.
The issue with the Maverick is some dealerships would charge a $10k mark up while on the Santa Cruz, the highest I know is around $2.5k.
I agree with you that I don’t like all push buttons, plus it’s more dangerous while driving. One reason I love my Tacoma is all the tactile dial’s and knobs.
I just got a Limited. I always get leather seats, even in a car like this...Yes, the double clutch shifts and sounds almost like a manual transmission shifting, I am glad you mentioned it since I drive luxury cars and had not experienced that sound and sensation for a long time and thought something was wrong. The little turbo power to weight is lopsided, the car jumps like a rice burner, very fast off the line. The reason the bed seems shorter is the tonneau cover, it takes out 25% of the bed length, but getting rid of that would also sacrifice the lockable storage space. A compromise. I also wanted the 5,000 lbs towing, and you gotta have this trim level to get that, all wheel plus the turbo. I will not install trailer brakes though, I just want to be able to have a capable trailer that can tow pretty much anything, and that is how I would haul around the big stuff, not in the bed. The times you need that do not justify a PU truck (I have owned many, including an F250) which is another reason I like this concept. That's if you are not in the trades. It is a decent compromise, car yet just enough PU bed to get most things you can't fit in an SUV or would want to... For those wondering where to get the hitch, U-Haul will install one for about $450 all in, but I want a Curt and the wiring kit for that brand, so I bought it myself on Amazon and will install it myself. Also, remember to drive it under 4k rpm and dont use the cruise control for the first 1000 miles to give a good break-in, no trailer towing during that either. I have about 400 mi on mine so far.
Very well done! Love the Santa Cruz, thanks for the awesome and honest review!
I have the limited , and I LOVE IT! I have owned soooo many new vehicles, but this one blows me away! I love the shorter bed. I am a 61 year old home care nurse. So, I have to carry alot of stuff. BUT a long truck bed is not user friendly fir someone who has limited mobility. I can easily reach all my medical gear in this most fantastic vehicle. Ok. You don't like the all black " face plate" due to the possibility that scratches will show up easier. I got that problem " nipped in the bud." I ordered a screen protector on Amazon. Easy peasy!!
Bought a sel this past Saturday the price was good and we love it
If I look at it as a compact pickup, $40K is rather stiff. If I see it as a SUV, with a bed thrown in, it's not so bad a price. I just can't get used to the idea of paying sticker, or more, for a new ride. Maybe it's the new reality of car buying, at least for a while.
That $40k is for the upper models. The SE is about $25k and the SEL with Activity package I bought was $34.5k after taxes etc.
$41k for absolutely loaded , every option Limited trim. Base is $24,000 and change.
Bought the SEL AWD base model. Very happy with it, and it only has a couple less features than the high end pkg's
wife has had hers 3 months, loves it, no issues
You may not like the DCT, but remember, it adds 6 to 10 percent in gas mileage. Probably why the turbo awd only gets a mile less per gallon. I love mine!
Excellent review - very fair. I have the LImited ordered, and it's coming in in a few weeks. Trading in my Dodge RAM 1500 which I love, but don't like the MPG - 9 mpg around town, 14 if I take it to work. And I really don't need a truck that big. This just checks off all the boxes for me. I can still carry home plywood or drywall, large applicances, etc. and with the towing capacity of the Limited of 5000 pounds, I'm more than good. Out of all the cons about the car, my biggest complaint is the piano black center console with no knobs or buttons and manual adjustable front passenger seat.
How long did you wait after placing an order?
Just bought the same color. 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL with Activity Package. The truck bed doesn’t bother me at all. I don’t need to haul anything huge or carry excessive ego. I spend my time heading to Anna Maria Island, St. Augustine, St. Pete and Key West so it’s perfect. Then for concerts it works with the cooler under the flat bed.
I like it's funky styling. You won't lose this in a parking lot and I think in a world dominated by blah crossovers and SUVs, having this thing would be pretty fun. If only Subaru would bring back the Baja to rival this thing that would be great!
I have the limited and my transmission Shifts smoothly all the time. Maybe it’s a problem with your tester? The piano black looks pretty and drives me crazy dusting it… No knobs is not a issue. Volume controls are right on the steering wheel. I love the truck
This. The tester I drove was super smooth as well.
Am a kia Guy
I love small things
This Car look perfect
Not a truck not a Masive SUV
Just Perfect first time i saw this car i fell in Love with it
I heard the shifter will get alot smother as you use it
This thing is a slam dunk styling wise. Personally, I'm waiting for the PHEV version (2023? .. cross my fingers), that would make it perfect all around.
I've had mine for 6 months. Never a problem. Love it completely, but would love a volume.
I have had a new one and I love everything and I paid $30.000. The truck is awesome and I recommend it.
I routinely watch reviews, and I am glad I came across your channel. Thank you!
Nice ride and it has a real engine. Having a Turbo was the way to go.
I really like it !!!
I traded my 14 tundra crewmax !
I have the premium !
It is awesome !
I'm definitely looking at one of these in the coming months.
Hoping that the back seat leg room is good enough for my two little ones. Definitely in the limited. I test drive the standard se model and honestly bit felt very sluggish. I have this engine and trans in my wife's Sorrento sx and gotta say it's a nice powerful 4 cylinder. My only gripe is that it has little lag once you hit the gas, but honestly it's not a sports car so it's not a huge problem
This is a good review man, thank you. I'm looking for a santa cruz pretty soon ( they've been outa stock for a while)
2:52 dude you're complaining about the 'bed size' and you have a single back pack shown in the bed... Question... of all the FULL SIZED trucks you see on the road today... How many are the beds EMPTY? Of all the FULL SIZED TRUCKS on the road.. how many will EVERY tow ANYTHING in its entire life... less than 10% Im betting. This truck is really all that 75% of the people out there need.
Bull hockey! Got 6k on my Sel Prem 2.5 turbo the dash is a pain to keep clean but it doesn't scratch! But you do have to keep a dust off . Our came with 125 warranty and free oil changes and State inspections! Its really fast 6.2 to 60. Pain in the ass is getting a tow package. U Haul can get the #3 total 7 pin with Brake control for $700.00 out the door. Installed Dealer is a rip off of over 1k plus ! It pulls my 18 ft Satellite with tip out water tank full and gear like it's not even hooked up. Of course the 31 mpg goes away to about 15 to 20 depending beach or mountains. Need the sway bar too . I didn't take any chances. I am a 65 year old Hot Roder and retired 5 million miles Pro Driver and I love this little Hot Wheels! Take it from a long time Ford guy ! Ford really drug their feet on the Maverick and I had been following this a long time... trust me Ford isn't going to give even close to a 100k warranty and never a 125. One . Free oil changes and inspections add up . Hyundai even washes the car for me when I come in kool right! We really Love this SAV IT FITS A RETIRED LIFESTYLE OF A TRUCKER. AS FOR THE SHOE BOX WITH EYES! CHEAPER IS AS CHEAPER DOSE .
I’m sold on it! I love pick up trucks and was looking into the Colorado but I love the Santa Cruz.
I really want one of these! I always wanted a Baja when Subaru had those, but they had stopped making them by the time I could get one. I loved my Hyundai Accent when I had one, so this seems perfect for me. Only thing is I'm two years in on a 2019 Buick Encore. I'm really considering trading it in on one of these.
Thank you for the review. I love this vehicle. I'm sold.
I really want to hear your thoughts and reviews on the new Maverick as well. Particularly the hybrid models. Do you plan to review that one? This was a superb video as always.
Thank you very much!
Yes I hope to get ahold of a Maverick but I’m not sure when. I’ll try to get one for a quick video from a dealership and if I get one for a week I’ll definitely do a couple videos on that one 👍
I'm impressed by the content and 5,000 lb towing capacity for the AWD version.
I wonder if the DCT smooths out with time. We have a base Macan and the DCT bothered me at first but it seems to have smoothed out to the point that I don't notice it.
Note that 5k towing needs the turbo engine, not just AWD. You can only get the turbo in the SEL Premium and Limited trims in the US. The SEL AWD, for example, is only rated for 3500lbs.
been waiting a year for the maverick hybrid and i am seeing these in more availability due to their being built in montgomery plant. the mpg on the non turbo at 21 seems better than a tacoma, but just seems rather low even for the ecoboost maverick comparison. the sc has approx same mpg as a jeep wrangler
Just bought one and I love it.
Excellent review.
Thank you!
I am ALL IN with this Santa Cruz. Hyundai really has it's finger on the pulse of styling, affordability and what folks like me want and sometimes need. As is stated, there is A LOT that goes into the Santa Cruz as far as features go. Just to see the rear bed and it's options for carrying plywood and/or sheetrock, with level bilateral bases to keep the items flat and secure with built in tie downs is very hip ! Like I said, I am ALL IN and I bet it is, if you will pardom the expression, a "chick magnet" ! Put, a yellow or black Lab's drooling happy face, ears flapping in the wind, and the ladies will be pulling up next to you throwing their phone numbers at you !
I agree that the ladies will like this. My two women friends already want one or at least want to ride in one ! Oh my God one replied !
@Shredder Keep making inane comments. Someone will listen…
@@jimji2774 who cares?
Thank you for sharing. Seriously thinking of purchasing one. Very helpful
What features are standard on the SE? Do you have to go all the way up to premium trim to get cruise control, blind side monitoring, the 360 degree camera?
Blind spot monitors and 360 view are only on the top trim in the USA. Don't know about cruise control I'll bet it's on everything but adaptive cruise control is only on The limited top model.
Actually located a 360 view on my Premium now.
Price a bit up there.
$52,000 for a similarly equipped Taco with drum brakes and faux leather.
@Shredder Hmmm, compared to what? A 68 Buick? Pretty much all modern engines are very reliable if reasonably maintained.
I can tell you for a fact the only engine in any car I’ve ever owned that had a serious problem was a 2006 Scion tC (a Toyota) and it was because my son didn’t maintain the oil. That car had perhaps the most deployed and reliable Toyota engine ever made in it. If your assertion is you buy a Taco because of the engine, I’ve got some great swampland for you to build a house on. I doubt 2% of people decide on their car purchases based on the reliability of the engine over the leather, stereo, color, or price.
Thanks for the GREAT video, coming from a long time Tacoma owner, this may have enticed my decision! May I ask what color yours is?
My husband has this and we love it
The bed length is fine. Perfect for this vehicle.
Bought SEL trim fwd and I use it for work. The bed could be like another 6 or 8in longer but is extremely practical for me. Drives beautifully and very nice inside. I do agree with the black piano console, it sucks for dust. Not many cons and I overall love it. Its better then the wifes 2021 Rav4.
i honestly love the interior, i am not by any means an import guy. i currently own a 18 ford focus st, and i love the cars but looking to get something a bit more rugged and off road worthy while retaining that sports car interior feel. the slick black overlaying everything in combination with illuminated touch is a stellar combo. Regale and sleek, the interior reminds you something of a brand new MB or BMW. I don't understand why people want a physical protruding button over a slick surface. some reviews have mentioned not being to feel the button while driving and having to look to make sure its being pressed, well more than half the population looks down at their phone while driving... so what are we really complaining about here? the info-tainment system looks great and classy, also that makes cleaning the surface incredibly easy. I've pretty much convinced myself to get one, that is pretty obvious. lol
Good review! might have to consider one in the future.... for now, still loving my 06 Subaru Baja, but maybe when it's retired :)
I haven't found anyone who makes a bed cap yet. Sometimes I need one for taller items and need them to stay dry. I hate the way caps look but at times they are useful
Couldn't find a limited without a 5k markup around here so bought a SEL premium
I love driving this thing and very compatible with phone and Spotify etc. Just pissed it doesn't have better tek on all the trims. No adaptive cruise control on mine, no blind spot camera monitors, and questionable Lane keep assist and emergency front and rear braking. Still this Ute is comfortable quick and nimble so I will give it a thumbs up so far.
Don’t know where you live, obviously, but I found dealers in NJ, MD, eastern NY all gouging. Western NY, no add on or a very small one. I just bought a Tucson Limited PHEV with $180 add on, after turning down 5 others with add ins from $1,800 to $4,000 and RAV4 Primes with $3,000-5,000 tacked on.
To follow up this thing is really comfortable and quiet as well as quick. Will let you back into a parked car without so much as a warning unless car is moving - wierd Hyundai. Overall a winner and head turner. Got lots of positive comments from from people seeing it for first time. Sport mode actually makes a difference unlike my last car. Also the trunk turned out to be the perfect place to store tools. Took out the back seat under seat storage so I can carry groceries on the floor with saet up. Thumbs up overall.
Great demo,thanks,helped me to make up my mind.
I have had mine for 3 weeks now and can’t find any fault with it.
I love this thing, hardly any in stock in my area in top trim! I like this better than the ridgeline or MAverick
Did you give tow capacity and tounge weight. I really want one of these rigs. Towing a small camper ( tear drop or possibly small casita ) is a must. I'm assuming that theres an awd option ? Definitely think some bfg all terain radials would look killer. Thanks.
AWD and tows 5k.
I own a night edition love it
I love mine. It’s perfect and it pretty much self drives on the interstate. Mine isn’t jerky. I’ve driven them before. I have the limited. You have volume in the steering wheel. I have this color too. No to the longer bed. If you need that then you should buy a truck with it. The short bed is what I love.
Awesome
You are right, my biggest complain is the halogen light.
our dealership has them now, 10% over sticker, drove it nice enough but bigger than I was expecting
We have an sel and we love it. My only complaint is the infotainment system is so technical I can’t understand. It. We traded a Nissan Rogue sl and that had a really user friendly media system. Anyway, we love the Santa Cruz.
I have the SE, and I'm SO glad I didnt spend thousands more for things I dont need and things that are more likely to break. I dont need heated seats and steering wheel. I dont need power seat, because once I set the seat, it never moves again. I have a VOLUME CONTROL on my SE. Since I know how to drive, having done that for 50 years, I DONT NEED THE CAR TO DRIVE ME. I dont need camera's and warnings and all that crap. When I drive, I DRIVE, watching every move going on around me. So if you dont need all those bells and whistles, get the SE AND SAVE MANY THOUSANDS!
Love it❣ We are Ordering a 2022 White Santa Cruz Limited
Really like our limited my dislike is that it doesn’t have auto folding outside mirrors and the rear window slider is manual. A power slider would have been great addition. Other then that very happy.
If your the driver your going to use the steering wheel controls for the volume
Yes most of the time, but It’s not just the volume that’s touch controls though.
Voice activation also controls most functions of entertainment and climate
You could also get the activity package on the SEL and still get all the cool add-ons. I got the SEL myself but couldn’t afford the activity. But we take what we can get.
Looks great. I have a Honda Ridgeline and this would be a great option.
Looking very hard at purchasing one. It’s between this or Jeep Gladiator
@7:07 "So the backseat is big enough to fit my fat butt"... 🤣🤣🤣 I'm dying...
A 6 foot cargo bed will be a very good space yet 4 feet okay good enough since it is a mid size truck. And of course in my own opinion hyundai is very good in aesthetics. it looks pretty to me
It’s not a midsize. It’s a compact.
Nice job, I like it would I buy it, I don't like the black either, those button's look like a pain in the ass. Is 2022 the frist Year? I don't remember seeing them before. With big tires they look sharp, I like comfort.
I love it!!!!!!!
Got the SEL about 3 months ago. Been loving it ever since. SE model $25,000. at this time they are not available anywhere
Nice review. I so agree about the bed length. I think this would just frustrate me. But the bigger question is why we must have FOUR doors on a truck. Get rid of the sedan back seats and lengthen the bed!
Very good review. Our search has expanded from Toyota to now these and we're pleasantly surprised so far. Now to go test drive it. Thanka for sharing.
@Spirit’ed Wrenchers did you ever test drive one?
@@peytonzahnd598 yes we did. It was only the base model. Couldn't ever get our rear ends in the higher trim. It was enough for us to land on a '22 Santa Fe Calligraphy instead. Thanks for asking
How much room is there in that front passenger seat in front of the rear-facing car seat? That’s my only concern keeping me from pulling the trigger on this.
Just bought one
How do you turn the bed lights on?
Excellent video! I want to know how you got the drl's to strobe like they were!
I love my Cruz!
The DRL strobe that you are seeing is a desyncing of the LED’s display rate vs the cameras recording frame right. It’s not something you would see with your own eyes, just the camera
I hate that the limited doesn’t have wireless CarPlay. I agree with you on the rest except for the longer bed. Some of us don’t have the space for a larger vehicle so the Santa Cruz is the perfect size for me
You missed a nice plus that a lot of buyers would be looking for and that is the towing capacity. It can tow 3500 lbs and the turbo can tow 5,000 lbs, which would allow the towing of smaller RV’s, boats, or some toys. Compared to the Ford Maverick which can tow 3,000 & 4,000 lbs, the Santa Cruz has the Maverick beat.
You can get the bed extender gate to increase bed length.
I love it! I want one.
Is the bed waterproof 💦 ?
The Ridgeline does have vents in the backseat. It actually also has Tri Climate control so the occupants in the back can have their own specific temperature while the driver and passenger can also has their own temperature to their liking. When it comes to interior comfort, the Ridgeline wins hands down.
It's a great truck, but it's BIG. And this addressed that issue. Not everyone wants a giant truck.
I don't see the big deal with the volume knob... Maybe I don't listen to much music..hahaha
Great video!
Looks great (minus the dearth of physical buttons on the infotainment). I'll definitely short-list it if it comes out in a full electric soon.
We like all the storages.
Does that tonneau cover lock?