Video Review: 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz

The Santa Cruz provides solid towing capabilities and a practical bed size.

Aaron’s favorite little pickemup, the Santa Cruz. Not much has changed this year, but the removal of the dual-clutch transmission in the upper models is kind of a bummer. Doesn’t change its ride quality or capability, though.

Video summary (AI): The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz remains largely unchanged since its 2022 introduction, offering a stylish, SUV-like driving experience with a functional truck bed. It competes closely with the Ford Maverick but stands out for its comfort and aesthetics. While the dual-clutch transmission is discontinued, the Santa Cruz provides solid towing capabilities and a practical bed size, making it a versatile choice in the compact pickup segment.

Aaron Turpen
An automotive enthusiast for most of his adult life, Aaron has worked in and around the industry in many ways. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press (RMAP) and freelances as a writer and journalist around the Web and in print. You can find his portfolio at AaronOnAutos.com.