Trims and Powertrains

The 2025 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ offers a quintet of great choices: the SE, SEL, SEL Activity, XRT, and Limited. A 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission form the powertrain for the SE, SEL, and SEL Activity. Front-wheel drive (FWD) comes standard, while all-wheel drive (AWD) is an option. The XRT and Limited get a more potent turbocharged version of the 2.5-liter engine, which makes 281 horsepower. This engine is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and comes standard with AWD.

SE

If you’re seeking exceptional value in a stylish and versatile package, the SE comes through in every way. This well-equipped base trim is far from basic, providing a strong selection of amenities, including proximity keyless entry, push-button ignition, remote start, LED interior lighting, cloth upholstery, a 60/40-split rear seatback with tip-up lower seat cushions, automatic bi-LED headlights, LED daytime running lights and taillights, and rear privacy glass. Utility is another strong suit, thanks to the multi-functional remote-release tailgate and sheet-molded composite cargo bed, which features heavy-duty cargo D-rings and lockable under-bed and sidewall storage compartments.

Technology is front and center in the SE, as it boasts a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM satellite radio, HD Radio, and Bluetooth hands-free connectivity. A multi-speaker sound system delivers crisp audio, while four USB ports (two front and two rear) will keep you plugged in on the go.

To top it off, the SE comes loaded with advanced driver-assistance technologies through the comprehensive SmartSense suite, which consists of forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, blind-spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, lane following assist, driver attention warning, automatic high beams, safe exit warning, and rear occupant alert. It also gets a rearview monitor and a set of eight airbags (front, front side, side-curtain, and rear side with rollover sensors).

SEL

The SEL takes comfort and convenience to the next level with a refined selection of premium features. This trim adds dual-zone automatic climate control and rear air-conditioning vents for greater cabin comfort, along with H-Tex leatherette upholstery and heated front seats with power adjustability for the driver. On the exterior, the SEL stands out with roof rails and heated side-view mirrors that are upgraded with LED turn-signal indicators.

SEL Activity

The SEL Activity builds on the SEL’s premium features with added functionality and adventure-ready attributes. It enhances utility with LED bed lighting, a factory-installed tonneau cover for the cargo bed, T-slot utility tracks, and a dual C-channel adjustable utility track rail and cleat system for extra-flexible cargo management. A 115-volt power outlet built into the sidewall and a rear sliding window add to the convenience factor. In addition to those rugged enhancements, the SEL Activity gets a power tilt-and-slide sunroof, wireless phone charging, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.

XRT

The rugged XRT makes a lasting impression with its dominating design and exclusive features. While it forgoes the sunroof found in the SEL Activity, it stands out with dark exterior accents, rugged fender flares, and black H-Tex upholstery. Additional refinements for this trim include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and the convenience of Hyundai Digital Key 2, which allows keyless access via compatible smartphones.

The other infotainment components added at the XRT level are onboard navigation, dynamic voice recognition, and the innovative Hyundai Pay system for contactless in-vehicle transactions. Safety and driver assistance are also more advanced in this trim, thanks to an enhanced forward collision-avoidance assist system with cyclist and junction-turning detection, an active blind-spot view monitor, navigation-based smart cruise control with stop-and-go, highway driving assist, and intelligent speed limit assist.

Limited

The range-topping Limited trades the XRT’s unique styling for a more refined and luxurious presentation. It brings back the power tilt-and-slide sunroof and enhances the premium experience with rain-sensing windshield wipers, a surround-view monitor, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, and a heated steering wheel. The cabin also boasts 64-color ambient interior lighting, genuine leather upholstery, and ventilated front seats for next-level comfort. To complete the experience, the Limited is the only Santa Cruz trim that gets a top-shelf Bose audio system.