The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz breaks the mold as a compact utility vehicle that seamlessly merges the versatility of a crossover with the functionality of a pickup truck. Marketed as a Sport Adventure Vehicle, it’s designed for those who crave adventure but still require the practicality of a daily driver. The Santa Cruz is aimed at a new segment of buyers who want a vehicle capable of tackling outdoor activities, hauling gear, and comfortably navigating city streets. Its bold exterior styling stands out with sharp edges, a cascading grille that integrates with sleek LED headlights, and a muscular stance that exudes confidence. The innovative design philosophy gives it a unique identity in a crowded market. Whether it’s for camping trips, kayaking excursions, or simply running errands, the Santa Cruz proves to be a versatile and exciting addition to Hyundai’s lineup.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz offers two distinct engine options to cater to varying driving needs. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for daily commuting and light hauling. For drivers who need more muscle, the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine steps up with 281 horsepower and a hefty 311 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful options in its class. Both engines pair with advanced 8-speed transmissions; the standard version uses a conventional automatic, while the turbo engine is mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission for quicker, smoother shifts. The all-wheel-drive system enhances traction on various terrains, and the maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds (when properly equipped) rivals midsize trucks. The Santa Cruz offers impressive versatility, whether you’re towing a small camper, hauling construction materials, or heading off-road.

The exterior design of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz is where its crossover-meets-truck personality truly shines. Its unibody construction departs from traditional body-on-frame truck designs, giving it a modern, aerodynamic look without sacrificing ruggedness. The front end features Hyundai’s signature cascading grille, flanked by daytime running lights that create a distinctive, futuristic appearance. Its 4.3-foot composite bed is shorter than traditional pickups but maximizes functionality with features like a lockable in-bed trunk, adjustable tie-downs, and a sliding tonneau cover to keep cargo secure and dry. The smart bed design also includes a 115V power outlet for charging tools or electronics. Wider wheel arches, optional 20-inch alloy wheels, and bold cladding emphasize its adventure-ready aesthetic. The Santa Cruz balances urban sophistication with outdoor capability, making it a standout choice for buyers looking for both style and utility.

The cabin of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz combines practicality with luxury, creating an inviting environment for drivers and passengers. Designed to feel more like an SUV than a truck, the interior features high-quality materials and ergonomic layouts. Standard equipment includes an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, making it easy to stay connected on the go. Higher trims elevate the experience with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a larger touchscreen display, and a premium Bose sound system that delivers excellent audio quality. Available leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat ensure optimal comfort for long journeys. The rear seats offer adequate space for passengers, and their 60/40 split design allows for flexible storage solutions. Thoughtful touches like multiple USB ports, ambient lighting, and dual-zone climate control add to the overall sense of refinement.

Hyundai prioritizes safety in the 2023 Santa Cruz, equipping it with an impressive array of standard and optional features. The SmartSense suite of advanced driver assistance systems is standard across all trims, providing essential features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian detection, Lane Keeping Assist, and Driver Attention Warning. These technologies help mitigate potential accidents and improve overall driving confidence. For those who want enhanced safety, higher trims offer Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Highway Driving Assist, which provides semi-autonomous capabilities on highways. A high-strength steel frame and multiple airbags provide robust crash protection, and the available Surround View Monitor makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces effortless. With a focus on safety, the Santa Cruz ensures peace of mind whether you’re on a family road trip or navigating busy city streets.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz is available in four trims—SE, SEL, SEL Premium, and Limited—each catering to different needs and preferences. The base SE offers a strong value with cloth seating, an 8-inch touchscreen, and key safety features. The SEL adds convenience features like push-button start, heated side mirrors, and upgraded upholstery. For those seeking a more premium experience, the SEL Premium introduces turbocharged performance, dual-zone climate control, and wireless device charging. The top-tier Limited trim delivers a true luxury experience with leather seats, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, ventilated front seats, and a premium Bose sound system. Buyers can further personalize their Santa Cruz with optional packages and accessories such as roof rails, bed extenders, and all-weather floor mats. This wide range of trims and customization options ensures there’s a Santa Cruz for every lifestyle.

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for buyers, and the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz delivers competitive numbers for its class. The standard 2.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive, while the turbocharged variant offers 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. These figures make it an efficient choice for a vehicle with pickup truck capabilities. In addition to its fuel economy, the Santa Cruz benefits from Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty, including a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. Combined with competitive pricing and the promise of long-term reliability, the Santa Cruz offers significant value for budget-conscious buyers who want a versatile, efficient vehicle without compromising on quality or features.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz is a master of versatility, seamlessly adapting to both urban environments and outdoor escapades. Its compact size and unibody construction make it agile in crowded city streets, easy to park, and comfortable for daily commuting. At the same time, its rugged features, like available all-wheel drive and high ground clearance, enable it to handle unpaved roads and light off-roading with confidence. The short truck bed offers enough space for outdoor gear, groceries, or construction materials, while the innovative in-bed trunk adds a secure, weatherproof storage solution. Whether you’re navigating tight city corners or heading to a campsite, the Santa Cruz is designed to handle it all.

One of the standout features of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz is its ingenious approach to storage. The bed, although shorter than that of a traditional truck, is packed with utility. The lockable in-bed trunk offers hidden storage, perfect for tools, valuables, or wet gear, while the sliding tonneau cover keeps cargo protected from the elements. Adjustable tie-down points and a 115V power outlet add further functionality. Inside, the cabin features multiple storage compartments, including under-seat storage in the rear, cup holders in all rows, and strategically placed cubbies for small items. These thoughtful storage solutions make the Santa Cruz a highly practical choice for diverse needs.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz ensures you stay connected and entertained on every journey. The standard 8-inch touchscreen offers intuitive access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless smartphone integration for music, navigation, and communication. Higher trims introduce a 10.25-inch touchscreen with crisp graphics and additional functionality, including dynamic voice recognition and customizable display settings. The available Bose premium sound system delivers exceptional audio quality, enhancing every drive. Additional features like wireless device charging and multiple USB ports ensure that all passengers can stay powered and connected, whether on a quick commute or a cross-country road trip.

For those who crave adventure, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz provides off-road capability that rivals larger trucks. The HTRAC all-wheel-drive system adapts to changing road conditions, offering enhanced grip on snow, sand, and gravel. With its high ground clearance and sturdy suspension, the Santa Cruz can tackle rugged trails and unpaved roads with ease. The turbocharged engine option provides ample torque for climbing steep inclines or pulling heavy loads. Whether exploring forest trails or navigating rocky paths to a remote campsite, the Santa Cruz is more than capable of delivering an adventurous experience.

As part of Hyundai’s commitment to sustainability, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz incorporates eco-friendly materials and efficient manufacturing processes. The vehicle’s aerodynamic design reduces drag and improves fuel economy, making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to larger trucks. Inside the cabin, Hyundai has used sustainable materials in upholstery and trims where possible. While not an electric or hybrid vehicle, the Santa Cruz’s efficient engines and relatively low emissions make it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious drivers.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz occupies a unique niche in the automotive market, bridging the gap between compact SUVs and traditional pickup trucks. It competes with vehicles like the Ford Maverick and Honda Ridgeline, but it sets itself apart with its bold styling, innovative features, and Hyundai’s signature value proposition. Unlike traditional trucks, the Santa Cruz offers a car-like driving experience with refined handling and ride quality, appealing to buyers who may not have considered a truck before. With its balance of utility, comfort, and price, the Santa Cruz redefines what a compact truck can be.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz is designed with long-term ownership in mind, supported by Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty. The 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty provide peace of mind for buyers. In addition to its warranty coverage, the Santa Cruz has low maintenance costs compared to traditional trucks, thanks to its efficient engines and Hyundai’s reputation for reliability. Owners also benefit from Hyundai’s Blue Link Connected Car Services, offering remote start, vehicle health monitoring, and emergency assistance. This combination of durability, affordability, and convenience makes the Santa Cruz an excellent long-term investment.

Hyundai understands that every driver has unique needs, and the 2023 Santa Cruz reflects this with a range of customization options. Accessories like bike racks, roof-mounted cargo boxes, and bed organizers allow buyers to tailor the vehicle for specific lifestyles, whether they’re outdoor enthusiasts, DIY hobbyists, or urban professionals. The wide selection of trims and packages ensures that every buyer can find the perfect balance of features, performance, and price. The Santa Cruz doesn’t just fit into your life—it enhances it, offering flexibility and style in equal measure.

Kunes Hyundai of Quincy is your trusted dealership for Hyundai vehicles, conveniently located to serve drivers from Mendon, Hamilton, and Liberty, IL. Whether you’re looking for a sleek sedan, a versatile SUV, or an eco-friendly hybrid, Kunes Hyundai of Quincy offers a wide selection of new and pre-owned Hyundai models, expert maintenance services, and a commitment to exceptional customer care. With a reputation for reliability and innovation, Hyundai vehicles are a top choice for drivers across the region, and Kunes Hyundai of Quincy is here to meet your automotive needs.  

For residents of Mendon, IL, Kunes Hyundai of Quincy is just a 15-minute drive south via IL-96, making it an easy and convenient option for all your vehicle needs. Mendon, a small community with a rich agricultural heritage, is home to drivers who need dependable and versatile vehicles. At Kunes Hyundai of Quincy, Mendon customers can explore a range of models, including the Hyundai Santa Fe and Hyundai Tucson, perfect for family life and rural commutes. For those seeking fuel efficiency and modern technology, the Hyundai Elantra and Sonata sedans offer a comfortable ride with advanced features. Mendon drivers also appreciate the dealership’s professional service center, where factory-trained technicians provide expert maintenance and repairs to keep their vehicles running smoothly.  

If you’re traveling from Hamilton, IL, Kunes Hyundai of Quincy is a quick 40-minute drive east via US-136 and IL-96. Hamilton, located along the scenic Mississippi River, is a community where reliable vehicles are essential for both daily life and weekend adventures. At Kunes Hyundai of Quincy, Hamilton customers can find versatile SUVs like the Hyundai Palisade, offering spacious interiors and cutting-edge safety features, or the Hyundai Kona, which balances performance with compact convenience. The dealership also offers hybrid and electric models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, perfect for eco-conscious drivers looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Hamilton residents can count on the dealership’s dedicated team to provide transparent financing options and a stress-free buying experience.  

For drivers from Liberty, IL, Kunes Hyundai of Quincy is just a 20-minute drive northwest via IL-104, making it a convenient destination for high-quality vehicles and services. Liberty’s small-town charm and close-knit community create a demand for vehicles that combine practicality and innovation. At Kunes Hyundai of Quincy, Liberty residents can explore options like the Hyundai Venue and Hyundai Santa Cruz, ideal for balancing daily commutes with adventurous weekend outings. The dealership also offers a variety of pre-owned vehicles, providing budget-friendly options without sacrificing quality. Liberty drivers trust the service center at Kunes Hyundai of Quincy for routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, as well as more complex repairs.  

Kunes Hyundai of Quincy is more than just a dealership—it’s a proud partner in the communities of Mendon, Hamilton, and Liberty. The dealership takes pride in supporting local events, schools, and organizations that contribute to the vibrancy of these towns. From participating in community fundraisers in Mendon to sponsoring events in Hamilton and contributing to initiatives in Liberty, Kunes Hyundai of Quincy is dedicated to making a positive impact in the region.  

Drivers from Mendon, Hamilton, and Liberty trust Kunes Hyundai of Quincy for its exceptional selection of Hyundai vehicles, professional service, and commitment to customer satisfaction. Whether you’re shopping for a new or pre-owned vehicle, exploring financing options, or scheduling maintenance, Kunes Hyundai of Quincy is here to provide an outstanding dealership experience. Visit today to discover why so many drivers in the area choose Kunes Hyundai of Quincy as their automotive partner.