2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Debuts As A Perfect Alternative To Bulky Pickups

First unveiled in a concept form at the 2015 North American International Auto Show, Hyundai’s first pickup truck is here, though the automaker calls it Sport Adventure Vehicle. The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz features a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine generating 190+ horsepower (142+ kilowatts) and 180+ pound-feet (244+ Newton-meters) of torque. The power goes to all the wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. With this powertrain, the truck can tow up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kilograms).

Those looking for more power can opt for a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder mill yielding 275+ hp (205+ kW) and 310+ lb-ft (420+ Nm). The engine sends power to all the wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. This variant can pull 5,000 pounds (2,268 kilograms).

From the front, the Santa Cruz appears similar to the 2022 Tucson. The daytime running lights join neatly into the grille design, however, they are only noticeable when lit. The truck features a sharply raked A-pillar, giving it a sleek look. Hyundai also made the C-pillar angled to render the truck a more lively appearance.

The real usability of the truck is evident at the back where the bed provides numerous practical facilities. You can lift a part of the 52.1 inches (132.3 centimetres) long bed to discover a hidden storage space. Other notable features include steps at the corner of the bumper for easier entrance, an extendable tonneau cover at the base of the cab, and lots of bed extension accessories.

Peek inside and we find a standard eight-inch infotainment screen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 10-inch display, as well as a digital instrument cluster, is optional.

Hyundai has ensured the safety of occupants through forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist, and driver attention warning. To make the Santa Cruz safer, you have to pay extra for adaptive cruise control, blind-spot collision avoidance, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance, a blind-spot camera, safe exit assist, surround-view monitor.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz will hit the dealerships this summer. The pricing details will be revealed closer to the launch.

Source: Motor1