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Independent review & score by Carivo
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
|---|---|
| Body Style | Truck |
| Base Price | $25,744â$32,217 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz is a truck that earns a Carivo score of 8.0/10 â rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.5/10, while Performance at 7.1/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability comes in at 8.3/10 â above average, with owner data showing fewer issues than the segment mean. It's not flawless, but it's a dependable choice for most buyers. On safety, it scores an impressive 8.5/10, backed by strong NHTSA crash-test results and a well-rounded driver-assistance suite.
Performance scores 7.1/10 â competent for everyday use. Acceleration and handling are adequate for commuting and highway driving, though enthusiasts looking for a more engaged driving experience will want to look at higher-rated alternatives. Technology comes in at 7.4/10 â functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $25,744â$32,217, 23 MPG, seating 5, the Hyundai Santa Cruz sits in the mid-market bracket of the truck segment. Its value score of 8.4/10 confirms that the price reflects the quality â you're getting a lot for your money here. At 1 year old, it's recent enough that the core feature set holds up well against current competition.
Our take: The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz is a solid, well-rounded truck that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
Carivo scores are built from NHTSA crash-test results, EPA fuel-economy figures, manufacturer-published specifications, and long-term owner reliability data. Every score is reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology â
Explore the full lineup of Hyundai models scored by Carivo â ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.