Hyundai has been teasing the launch of its first pickup truck for quite a long time. The Santa Cruz concept (pictured above) was first unveiled at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. After many years of waiting, Hyundai has officially announced that the new model is going into production next year! Its release date is currently unknown, but we will keep you in the know as we gain more information.
The Santa Cruz will be manufactured at Hyundai's assembly plant in Montgomery, Alabama, alongside the Santa Fe and other core Hyundai models. The truck promises to bring the full appeal and quality that other Hyundai vehicles have, but it will combine this with the extra functionality of a pickup truck. Right now, there are few concrete details about the model, but there are many things we expect.
Modern Style and Features
If its look is close to the concept, the Santa Cruz will have innovative, sleek exterior styling with muscular definition from front to rear. Some of the features that it will likely carry are Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, tie-down hooks, rear-hinged rear doors, wireless charging, a Harman Kardon sound system, and an in-truck hotspot. Advanced safety technologies are also anticipated, including lane-keeping assistance, automatic emergency braking, and other systems.
Performance Options
Exact specs are not yet available for the 2022 Santa Cruz, but many sources speculate that the truck may share the same platform and engines as the Hyundai Santa Fe. If so, the Santa Cruz could get a 2.4-liter four-cylinder gas engine that produces 185 horsepower, as well as the option of a turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower. On the Santa Fe these powertrains are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission combined with front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. In addition, there are rumors that the Santa Cruz could get hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, just like the redesigned 2022 Tucson.
We can't wait for the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz to go on sale in Phoenix, Arizona. Keep up with our blog to see updates as the new model's arrival approaches!
