*Not actual model
Jones Bel Air Hyundai - Should You Choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT for Trail-Ready Confidence around Towson, MD?
The XRT trim of Hyundai’s Sport Adventure Vehicle blends capability with everyday polish in a way that speaks directly to drivers who split time between weekday pavement and weekend paths. With its 281-hp 2.5L Turbocharged GDI-MPI 4-cylinder and HTRAC All Wheel Drive, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT adds the backbone you want for towing, packing gear, and confidently heading out when the weather turns. Terrain Mode Select with Snow, Mud, and Sand settings helps the chassis adapt to changing surfaces, while exposed front tow hooks, exclusive XRT cladding, and all-terrain tires add purposeful function. Inside, the 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation pairs with an available digital instrument cluster for a panoramic, modern feel, and the bed’s molded-in supports, multiple tie-down points, and available integrated tonneau cover make prepping for trailheads straightforward.
Driver assistance is where the XRT separates itself in daily use. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection monitors in busy intersections; Highway Driving Assist helps center the vehicle and maintain distance; Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Curve Control can reduce fatigue on longer drives; Blind-Spot View Monitor and Surround View Monitor make lane changes and tight parking easier; and Forward Attention Warning encourages focused driving. In short, the XRT’s added power and ride height cues are matched by a suite of confidence-enhancing systems that meaningfully ease time behind the wheel.
- HTRAC All Wheel Drive: Delivers confident traction in changing weather and on unpaved routes.
- Terrain Mode Select: Snow, Mud, and Sand modes tailor power delivery and stability control.
- 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation: Crisp mapping and intuitive route planning for day trips.
- Surround View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor: Camera-based visibility for parking and lane changes.
- Integrated tonneau cover (available): Lockable protection that keeps gear secure and out of sight.
Beyond capability, the XRT’s bed design is a highlight. Built-in tie-downs give you flexible anchor points for coolers, camping bins, and bikes. The underfloor storage bin is sealed and drains easily after a day at the beach. Add the available 115V power outlet to keep a tire inflator or portable fridge running when you set up camp. Because these solutions are factory-integrated, everything fits properly, works seamlessly, and preserves the Santa Cruz’s tidy exterior proportions.
The interior follows the same “do more with less fuss” ethos. Physical controls are intuitively placed, materials feel durable yet refined, and the available digital instrument cluster brings modern clarity to navigation prompts, driver assistance alerts, and off-road data. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard, keeping cords out of the cabin while putting your playlists and messages on the big screen. Small touches—like generously sized storage areas, straightforward seat adjustments, and a quiet, well-insulated cabin—matter when you are commuting all week and heading for sunrise starts on Saturdays.
If you are cross-shopping, here is a quick way to frame the XRT question: do you want a vehicle that handles errands, traffic, and tight garages with car-like calm but is genuinely excited for a rutted gravel road? If that resonates, the XRT is precisely tuned for that life. You will benefit from the added capability whenever the forecast or your plans get ambitious, and the tech suite’s everyday utility will show up every time you merge, park, or navigate a busy interchange.
Ready to take a closer look? Jones Bel Air Hyundai is serving Bel Air, Towson, and Owings Mills with knowledgeable guidance on features, accessories, and how the XRT compares with other trims. We will help you evaluate whether you will use Terrain Mode Select often, if the integrated tonneau cover makes sense for your gear, and which safety features best fit your routes. Visit our team for a focused XRT walkaround, a deep dive into driver assistance settings, and a test drive that highlights how the powertrain and chassis balance everyday calm with trail-ready confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What separates the XRT from other Santa Cruz trims?
XRT adds the 281-hp turbocharged engine, HTRAC All Wheel Drive, rugged styling cues, Terrain Mode Select, and an expanded suite of advanced driver assistance features.
Is the integrated tonneau cover standard on the XRT?
The integrated tonneau cover is available and pairs especially well with the XRT’s active-lifestyle focus by protecting and organizing gear.
Can I see the cameras that power Surround View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor in action?
Yes. During a test drive, a product specialist can demonstrate camera views for parking, tight maneuvering, and lane changes so you can see how they enhance confidence.
How does Terrain Mode Select help off pavement?
Terrain modes tailor throttle response and stability control to help maintain traction in Snow, Mud, or Sand, improving control and confidence on mixed surfaces.
