What to Know About the 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ

Dorsett Hyundai – What to Know About the 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ

The 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ continues to stand out as one of the most versatile vehicles in Hyundai’s lineup, blending the comfort and easy drivability of a modern SUV with the everyday utility of an open bed. For drivers who want something more flexible than a conventional compact SUV but more refined and maneuverable than a traditional pickup, the SANTA CRUZ remains a compelling choice. It is practical, distinctive, and thoughtfully equipped for commuting, weekend projects, outdoor gear, small business needs, and daily family life.

At Dorsett Hyundai, we know many shoppers want a vehicle that feels comfortable during the workweek and capable when plans call for extra cargo space. The 2027 SANTA CRUZ answers that need with a streamlined trim lineup, standard H-Tex-trimmed seating surfaces, smart storage solutions, and an available turbocharged powertrain on the XRT trim. For shoppers serving Indianapolis, Champaign, and Lafayette, this Sport Adventure Vehicle offers a balanced mix of technology, capability, and everyday convenience.

A Streamlined 2027 SANTA CRUZ Trim Lineup

The 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ lineup is focused around three trims: SE, SEL Activity, and XRT. This simplified structure makes it easier for shoppers to compare features and choose the model that best fits their driving style. The SE offers the essentials with a strong value-focused package, the SEL Activity adds popular comfort and bed utility features, and the XRT delivers the most rugged and technology-rich configuration in the lineup.

One of the most notable updates for 2027 is the expansion of H-Tex seating surfaces across all trims. H-Tex is Hyundai’s leatherette upholstery, designed to provide a premium look and feel while being easier to maintain than traditional materials. This gives every SANTA CRUZ cabin a more upscale impression, even at the entry point of the lineup.

• SE: A well-equipped starting point with practical utility, modern connectivity, advanced safety features, and standard H-Tex seating surfaces.
• SEL Activity: Adds comfort, convenience, and open-bed upgrades such as an integrated tonneau cover, utility track system, wireless device charging, and dual automatic temperature control.
• XRT: Focuses on capability, rugged styling, advanced driver assistance, premium audio, onboard navigation, and the standard turbocharged engine with HTRAC all-wheel drive.

Performance and Capability for Real Life

The 2027 SANTA CRUZ offers two Smartstream engine choices. The standard 2.5L GDI and MPI four-cylinder engine produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission for confident everyday driving. It is available with front-wheel drive or HTRAC all-wheel drive, depending on configuration, giving drivers the ability to prioritize efficiency or added traction.

For shoppers who want stronger acceleration and greater towing capability, the XRT comes with a 2.5L turbocharged engine producing 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This engine also uses an 8-speed automatic transmission and pairs with standard HTRAC all-wheel drive. With trailer brakes, properly equipped SANTA CRUZ models can tow up to 3,500 pounds with the 2.5L engine and up to 5,000 pounds with the turbocharged engine. That range makes the SANTA CRUZ useful for hauling small trailers, recreational equipment, supplies, and more.

Hyundai also gives the SANTA CRUZ a confident chassis setup. A unibody structure helps it feel composed and SUV-like on the road, while the multi-link rear suspension with self-leveling capability helps support stability when carrying cargo. Standard features such as Hillstart Assist Control, Downhill Brake Control, Brake Assist, and an electronic parking brake with automatic vehicle hold contribute to a calm and controlled drive.

Open-Bed Utility Without Oversizing Your Drive

The SANTA CRUZ bed is one of its biggest advantages. It is compact enough to keep the vehicle easy to park and maneuver, yet versatile enough for many tasks that would challenge a traditional SUV cargo area. 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. It also provides 27.0 cubic feet of SAE bed volume, giving drivers a useful space for tools, sports gear, camping equipment, luggage, home improvement supplies, and more.

Hyundai designed the open bed with thoughtful details that make it more than just a cargo box. Standard features include a lockable under-bed storage compartment, sidewall bed storage compartments, heavy-duty cargo D-rings, and a multi-functional tailgate with assisted open and close. SEL Activity and XRT trims add even more utility through an integrated tonneau cover with built-in T-slot accessory tracks, a dual C-channel adjustable utility track rail and cleat system, LED bed lighting, and a 115V power outlet in the sidewall storage area.

• Lockable under-bed storage: Helps keep valuables, tools, or smaller cargo out of sight and better organized.
• Integrated tonneau cover: Adds security and convenience on SEL Activity and XRT trims.
• Adjustable utility track system: Helps secure different cargo shapes and sizes with added flexibility.
• Integrated bumper side steps: Make it easier to access the bed from the rear corners.
• 115V power outlet: Supports tools, small devices, and accessories on equipped trims.

Interior Comfort and Everyday Convenience

Inside, the 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ feels more like a refined SUV than a conventional small pickup. Seating for five, supportive front seats, and a smart cabin layout make it comfortable for daily driving. The rear seat area includes 60/40 split tip-up lower seat cushions, adding storage flexibility when you need to keep items inside the cabin rather than in the bed.

Technology is another highlight. SE and SEL Activity trims include a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. XRT upgrades to a 12.3-inch audio-video-navigation touchscreen with onboard navigation, Dynamic Voice Recognition, and a Bose Premium Audio System. All trims include Bluelink+ connected car features, AM/FM/HD Radio, SiriusXM, front and second-row USB Type-C ports, and a rearview camera.

The XRT trim receives several notable convenience upgrades for 2027. Premium features expanded to the XRT include a heated steering wheel, auto-dimming mirror, rear armrest with cup holders, Bose Premium Audio, and a power sunroof. Combined with standard H-Tex seating surfaces, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch, and advanced driver assistance features, the XRT feels especially well-rounded for shoppers seeking a more complete package.

Safety and Driver Assistance Technology

Hyundai equips the 2027 SANTA CRUZ with a broad set of safety and driver assistance features. Every trim includes important systems such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Safe Exit Warning, Rear Occupant Alert, and steering wheel haptic feedback for select alerts.

The XRT trim adds an even more advanced driver assistance package. It includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection, 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. These features can help add confidence during highway driving, lane changes, parking, and busy traffic situations.

• Blind-Spot View Monitor: Displays a camera view of the vehicle’s blind spot on equipped XRT models.
• Surround View Monitor: Helps provide a more complete view around the vehicle when maneuvering in tight spaces.
• Highway Driving Assist 1: Supports more relaxed highway travel on equipped models.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist: Helps detect and respond to cross traffic while backing up.
• Safe Exit Warning: Can help alert occupants to approaching traffic when exiting the vehicle.

Which 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Trim Is Right for You?

Choosing the right SANTA CRUZ depends on how you plan to use it. The SE is a smart fit for drivers who want distinctive styling, open-bed practicality, and modern safety without overcomplicating the shopping process. The SEL Activity is likely to appeal to shoppers who want more comfort and bed versatility, especially because it includes features such as the integrated tonneau cover, utility rail system, heated front seats, wireless charging, and dual automatic temperature control.

The XRT is the strongest choice for drivers who want maximum capability and the most advanced feature set. Its standard turbocharged engine, HTRAC all-wheel drive, Terrain Mode Select, navigation, Bose audio, heated steering wheel, sunroof, premium driver assistance technologies, and rugged design details make it the most adventurous version of the SANTA CRUZ lineup.

1. Choose SE: If you want the core SANTA CRUZ experience with strong value and everyday practicality.
2. Choose SEL Activity: If you want added comfort, cargo management features, and a more versatile open-bed setup.
3. Choose XRT: If you want turbocharged performance, standard all-wheel drive, premium technology, and rugged capability.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How many trims does the 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ offer?

The 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ is offered in three trims: SE, SEL Activity, and XRT. This simplified lineup helps shoppers compare features more easily.

Does every 2027 SANTA CRUZ include H-Tex seating surfaces?

Yes. For 2027, H-Tex-trimmed seating surfaces are standard across all trims, giving every SANTA CRUZ cabin a more premium look and feel.

What is the most capable 2027 SANTA CRUZ trim?

The XRT is the most capable trim. It includes the 2.5L turbocharged engine, standard HTRAC all-wheel drive, Terrain Mode Select, advanced driver assistance features, and several premium interior upgrades.

How much can the 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ tow?

When properly equipped with trailer brakes, the 2.5L SANTA CRUZ can tow up to 3,500 pounds, while the turbocharged XRT can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

Is the 2027 SANTA CRUZ more like an SUV or a pickup?

The SANTA CRUZ blends both ideas. It drives with the comfort and refinement many shoppers expect from an SUV, while offering an open bed with useful cargo features similar to a compact pickup.

A Smart Choice for Drivers Who Want More Flexibility

The 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ continues to be a unique and highly practical option for drivers who want one vehicle that can do many things well. It is comfortable enough for daily commuting, flexible enough for projects and gear, and advanced enough to satisfy shoppers looking for modern technology and safety. With its streamlined trim lineup, standard H-Tex seating, expanded XRT features, and clever open-bed design, the SANTA CRUZ remains a standout choice for anyone who wants utility without moving into a full-size truck.

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