Every Hyundai dealer is gearing up for another exciting year of the Hyundai Santa Cruz. This midsize pickup truck. Even though the very first Santa Cruz model didn’t hit the road until 2022, the new model year comes with some exciting changes.
Read on to learn more about what to expect from the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz.
If It’s Not Broke, Don’t Fix It
The Hyundai Santa Cruz isn’t completely new for the 2023 model year. There are quite a few elements that don’t need to be updated since they were well received. For example, the base-level 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (191 horsepower; 181 lb-ft of torque) is back for entry-level trims. Of course, there is also a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine (281 hp; 311 lb-ft of torque) available on higher-level trims.
Hyundai keeps a wide suite of standard features, like a composite cargo bed, a six-speaker sound system, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Shoppers can also find things like a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, and a premium Bose sound system on other trims.
What’s New for the Santa Cruz in 2023?
The Santa Cruz has only been available at your local Hyundai dealer for a year, so you might not expect too many changes in the next model. Hyundai made sure to throw in some enhancements to ensure this is the best model yet.

Here are the most notable changes for 2023:
- The entry-level price increased by $1,010 (now $26,745)
- Added standard blind-spot monitoring
- Added standard rear cross-traffic alerts
- Updated 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment center on Premium and higher trims
- SEL Premium gets adaptive cruise control with GPS-based curve control
- Updated voice-recognition software
- The paint colors Ice White and Mojave have been replaced with Atlas White and California Sand
The Brand New Santa Cruz Night Model
To make sure that the new Santa Cruz stands at the Hyundai dealer, Hyundai created a brand new Night Edition that is sure to impress. This edition starts at $37,105, and it is the least expensive way to get ahold of that 2.5-liter turbocharged engine and standard all-wheel drive.
The Night Edition comes with 20-inch alloy wheels, front and rear black skid plates, and tubular black side-step rails. You’ll also notice dark grill trim, black mirror caps, and black door handles.
Increased Value
While the price tag of the Santa Cruz went up a little, this pickup truck still offers tremendous value. Shoppers often compare the Santa Cruz to Ford’s midsize pickup, the Maverick. Sure, the Maverick has a lower starting price, but it only comes with a fraction of the equipment.
On top of giving you more of the features you desire at an affordable price, Hyundai also has an unbeatable warranty, which includes seven years of rust coverage, three years of maintenance, and roadside assistance for five years.
If you’re interested in exploring everything the 2023 Santa Cruz has to offer, stop by your local Hyundai dealer today.
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