2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz (VRP) - Empire Hyundai Of New Rochelle

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz continues to define the compact adventure-ready pickup segment with its clever blend of SUV-like comfort and truck-like utility. At Empire Hyundai of New Rochelle, drivers can explore this versatile model firsthand and experience how effortlessly it transitions between daily commuting, active weekend lifestyles, and light-duty hauling. With its smooth ride quality, smart features, and bold design, the 2026 Santa Cruz stands out as a capable, stylish, and practical choice for Westchester-area drivers.

Starting Price & Trim Overview

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz has a starting MSRP of approximately $29,500 for the SE trim. Moving through the lineup, the SEL trim begins around $31,150, while the SEL Activity trim is priced near $34,200. At the higher end, the adventurous XRT trim starts around $41,100, and the range-topping Limited trim begins near $43,450. Pricing may vary depending on options, available incentives, and dealer inventory, but shoppers at Empire Hyundai of New Rochelle will find competitive offers across multiple trims, including well-equipped XRT and Limited models.

Performance & Powertrain

Hyundai offers two powertrains for the 2026 Santa Cruz. The standard engine, found in the SE, SEL, and SEL Activity trims, is a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter 4-cylinder producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. Drivers seeking more capability can step up to the turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, offered on the XRT and Limited trims, which delivers an impressive 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. For 2026, Hyundai pairs the turbo engine with a smooth and responsive eight-speed automatic transmission, replacing the prior dual-clutch unit for enhanced drivability and everyday comfort. The Santa Cruz’s sport-tuned handling feels confident in tight city streets while remaining capable enough for weekend getaways.

Drivetrain, Towing Capability & Fuel Economy

Depending on trim, buyers can choose between front-wheel drive and Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel-drive system. Front-wheel-drive Santa Cruz models achieve an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city, 30 mpg on the highway, and 25 mpg combined. All-wheel-drive versions return approximately 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. When properly equipped, the turbocharged AWD Santa Cruz can tow up to 5,000 pounds, giving it excellent capability for small trailers, powersports gear, and work equipment. Base engine configurations offer a towing capacity of around 3,500 pounds.

Interior Comfort & Technology

Inside the 2026 Santa Cruz, drivers will find a comfortable, refined cabin designed to feel more like a modern crossover than a traditional pickup. Even the base SE trim includes strong features such as a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, LED lighting, and keyless entry with push-button start. Safety is a standout advantage, with standard features including forward collision avoidance, lane keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, driver attention warning, and automatic high beams.

The SEL trim adds heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver’s seat, synthetic-leather upholstery, and heated side mirrors. The SEL Activity trim increases everyday convenience with a power sunroof, an integrated locking tonneau cover, bed lighting, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and wireless device charging. The XRT trim enhances ruggedness with standard terrain drive modes and more aggressive styling, while the Limited trim focuses on luxury and advanced convenience features for a premium experience.

Dimensions & Everyday Utility

The 2026 Santa Cruz offers seating for five and features a compact yet functional 52-inch truck bed that maximizes versatility without making the vehicle cumbersome to maneuver. At about 195.9 inches long, it fits easily into New Rochelle garages, parking decks, and urban streets while still offering the open cargo area many drivers need. Its bed is designed with smart storage solutions, tie-down points, and available locking covers to keep gear secure on the go.

What’s New for 2026

For 2026, the Santa Cruz introduces a few strategic updates. The turbocharged models now feature a traditional eight-speed automatic transmission in place of the dual-clutch system, improving ease of use and long-term reliability. The XRT trim gains terrain mode as standard equipment, enhancing off-pavement capability. Small refinements in interior comfort and trim-level features also help make the 2026 Santa Cruz more refined and well-rounded than before.

Visit Empire Hyundai Of New Rochelle Today

Experience the excitement of the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz firsthand by visiting Empire Hyundai of New Rochelle. Our knowledgeable team is ready to walk you through its innovative features, impressive versatility, and bold design. Get behind the wheel for a test drive and see why the 2026 Santa Cruz is the perfect blend of SUV comfort and pickup capability.