Key Features of the 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ

Smartstream Powertrains

The 2027 SANTA CRUZ offers two Smartstream engine choices designed to match different driving priorities. The Smartstream 2.5L GDI + MPI DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder engine produces 191 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 181 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, delivering a balanced feel for daily driving, commuting, and light-duty utility. The XRT trim steps up to the Smartstream 2.5L Turbo GDI + MPI DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder engine with 281 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 311 lb-ft of torque from 1,700 to 4,000 rpm, giving the vehicle stronger acceleration and added confidence when carrying passengers or cargo. Both engines use an 8-speed automatic torque converter transmission, and regular unleaded fuel is recommended. Front-wheel drive is standard on the 2.5L configuration, while HTRAC AWD is available with the 2.5L engine and standard with the 2.5T XRT. XRT also includes Terrain Mode Select, making it the strongest choice for shoppers who want enhanced capability beyond paved-road routines.

Open Bed Utility System

The open bed is one of the defining strengths of the SANTA CRUZ because Hyundai designed it for organized, everyday usefulness rather than simple empty space. Every trim includes a lockable under-bed storage compartment, Sheet Molded Composite bed, sidewall bed storage compartments, heavy duty cargo D-rings, a multi-functional tailgate with assisted open and close, and integrated rear bumper side steps. The bed measures 48.4 inches at the upper length, 52.1 inches at the lower length, and 74.8 inches with the tailgate open, with 27.0 cubic feet of SAE bed volume. SEL Activity and XRT add an integrated tonneau cover with two built-in T-slot accessory tracks, dual C-channel adjustable utility track rail and cleat system, 115V power outlet in sidewall storage, and LED bed lighting. The built-in T-slot accessory tracks support 440 lbs. distributed over a minimum of four T-slot attachment points, giving owners flexible ways to secure cargo, accessories, and gear.

H-Tex® Seating Surfaces

For 2027, H-Tex® seating surfaces are standard across all trims, which gives the SANTA CRUZ cabin a more refined and durable feel. SE includes H-Tex® seating surfaces, while SEL Activity and XRT build on the comfort story with an 8-way power driver’s seat, power driver’s lumbar support, and heated front seats. The rear seat is practical, too, with 60/40 split tip-up lower seat cushions that allow owners to adjust the cabin layout when carrying people, bags, tools, or personal items. Passenger space is well considered, with 41.4 inches of front leg room, 36.5 inches of rear leg room, and 101.8 cubic feet of passenger interior volume. XRT adds Black-only H-Tex® seating surfaces, a leather-wrapped shift knob, and a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel. This interior approach helps the SANTA CRUZ feel comfortable on daily drives while staying ready for the active use expected from a vehicle with an open bed.

12.3-inch Digital Technology

Technology in the 2027 SANTA CRUZ is designed to feel familiar, useful, and easy to access. SE and SEL Activity include a 12.3-inch Touchscreen Display with ccNc Lite and 6-speakers, while XRT adds a 12.3-inch Audio-Video-Navigation color touchscreen with ccNc, onboard Navigation, Dynamic Voice Recognition, and Bose® Premium Audio System. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto are standard across the lineup, along with AM/FM/HD Radio/SiriusXM®, Bluelink+, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio with a 3-month trial subscription, HD Radio Technology, front dual USB Type-C ports, second row dual USB Type-C ports, and a rearview camera. SEL Activity and XRT also include a 12.3-inch Digital Instrument Cluster and Wireless Device Quick Charging 15W. OTA update capability supports ECU and multimedia updates across the lineup, while map update capability is included on XRT. The result is a cabin that supports navigation, entertainment, communication, and vehicle information with a clean modern presentation.

Hyundai SmartSense

The 2027 SANTA CRUZ includes a strong set of safety and driver-assistance features aimed at everyday awareness. Standard systems across the lineup include Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, Driver Attention Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, steering wheel haptic feedback for Lane Keeping Assist and Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Safe Exit Warning, and Rear Occupant Alert. SE and SEL Activity include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection, while XRT upgrades to Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection using a sensor fusion-type system. XRT also adds Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Forward Attention Warning, Highway Driving Assist 1, and Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control with Curve Control. Core safety equipment includes Anti-lock Braking System with 4-wheel disc brakes, Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control System and Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Management, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System with Individual Tire Indicator.