How Do Hyundai SUV Sizes, Features, and Powertrains Compare Across the Lineup? The Hyundai utility lineup spans multiple dimensional classes, giving vehicle shoppers options ranging from agile subcompact crossovers to spacious multi-row family haulers. Entry-level models like the Venue and Kona prioritize nimble handling and easy parking. Moving up to the Tucson provides a balanced compact footprint with comfortable five-passenger seating and enhanced cargo space. For expanding families, the midsize Santa Fe offers dynamic exterior styling and flexible cabin configurations. The flagship Palisade elevates capacity further, delivering three full rows of seating and premium cabin appointments. Drivers interested in alternative fuels can explore zero-emission options like the IONIQ 5 or the all-electric three-row IONIQ 9, which offers an extended driving range starting at $58,955 MSRP. Engine configurations across these models range from efficient four-cylinder engines to advanced hybrid and plug-in hybrid setups, along with high-output electric drive motors. Standard front-wheel drive ensures smooth daily travel, while available HTRAC all-wheel drive supplies extra traction for navigating rural back roads in Beaver Township during unpredictable weather. To compare seating dimensions and power options across the crossover lineup, explore our selection of new Hyundai models online. When you are ready to experience these crossovers in person, feel free to visit our showroom, drop us a quick call, or get driving directions to our dealership. Which Hyundai SUV Delivers the Most Cargo Space and Towing Capacity for Rural Drivers? Evaluating cargo capacity and towing capability is crucial for drivers managing tough chores, hauling supplies, or transporting outdoor equipment. Utility scales progressively from lightweight subcompact builds to full-size three-row haulers. The Hyundai Palisade leads the lineup in overall utility, delivering up to 86 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume when the rear seating rows are folded flat. Standard trailering capabilities on the Palisade provide a maximum tow rating of up to 5,000 lbs when equipped with trailer brakes, making it well-suited for pulling boat trailers, small campers, or utility equipment across the rolling farmland terrain in Beaver Township. Fold-flat rear seating across two-row models helps maximize everyday storage space. While subcompact models suit smaller cargo loads and everyday errands, stepping up to the compact Hyundai Tucson provides significantly expanded cargo depth for oversized gear, tools, or hardware. The midsize Hyundai Santa Fe expands loading flexibility further with a wider rear hatch opening and versatile seating configurations ideal for long trips or hauling heavy supplies. Towing specifications vary significantly by vehicle size and powertrain configuration: Hyundai Venue: Not rated for trailer towing Hyundai Kona: Up to 1,000 lbs maximum towing capacity Hyundai Tucson: Up to 2,000 lbs maximum towing capacity when properly equipped Hyundai Santa Fe: Up to 3,500 lbs maximum towing capacity Hyundai Palisade: Up to 5,000 lbs maximum towing capacity with trailer brake assistance For buyers considering late-model utility vehicles or prior model years, reviewing our Herrnstein Hyundai Used Cars provides access to pre-inspected crossovers with proven towing and cargo capability. You can also explore our Herrnstein Hyundai FAQ to learn more about specific hitch options, tongue weights, and factory accessory installations. What Active Safety Features Come Standard Across Hyundai Crossovers and SUVs? Every crossover in the Hyundai lineup comes standard with Hyundai SmartSense, an advanced suite of driver-assist features designed to monitor road conditions and enhance driver awareness. Core protective technologies include standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, and Driver Attention Warning. Using sensor networks and camera systems, these technologies continuously observe surrounding traffic, providing autonomous emergency braking for detected vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists while helping to center the vehicle inside marked lanes during highway travel. Higher trim levels, including the popular SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy packages, build upon these core safety capabilities with extended protection systems. Key driver-assistance additions include: Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist: Actively checks adjacent lanes and applies selective braking if an unsafe lane shift is initiated. Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist: Warns drivers of oncoming cross-traffic while reversing and engages automatic braking when necessary. Safe Exit Assist: Utilizes rear radar detection to temporarily lock rear doors, preventing passengers from exiting into approaching traffic. Highway Driving Assist: Integrates adaptive cruise control with lane-centering tech to maintain preset distances and lane alignment at highway speeds. Testing these safety monitors firsthand gives drivers complete confidence in overall cabin protection. Families seeking late-model utility equipped with these active safety suites can explore our certified pre-owned Hyundai inventory. Keeping these advanced sensor networks calibrated over time is straightforward, especially when utilizing current Herrnstein Hyundai Service and Parts Specials for routine vehicle maintenance. How Do Hyundai Sedans Compare to SUVs in Fuel Efficiency and Highway Performance? While crossovers provide elevated seating and expanding cargo bays, traditional sedans maintain a distinct edge in overall fuel economy and streamlined high-speed tracking. Sleeker profiles and lighter curb weights allow model lines like the Elantra and Sonata to maximize distance between fuel stops while offering engaged throttle response. The compact Elantra serves as a benchmark for daily efficiency. Powered by a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque through an intelligent variable transmission, it handles daily commutes with remarkable ease. For drivers looking to drastically reduce fuel expenditures on routine highway drives around Beaver, the Elantra Hybrid Blue leads the class with up to an EPA-estimated 54 mpg combined. Utilizing a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor to generate 139 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, this hybrid setup utilizes a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission for crisp gear shifts. Upgraded trims such as the SEL and Limited maintain an impressive 49 mpg city / 52 mpg highway / 50 mpg combined rating. Stepping up to the midsize Sonata offers expanded cabin dimensions alongside enhanced highway passing capability. The baseline 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine puts out 191 hp for confident merging, while performance-focused turbocharged configurations ramp output up to 290 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. This level of power delivers sport-tuned acceleration while retaining comfortable, quiet highway cruising dynamics. Drivers planning to transition from an older automobile into a fuel-efficient sedan or high-output highway cruiser can begin by taking a moment to value your trade-in to help determine their upcoming purchasing power. How Can You Find and Finance the Right Hyundai Crossover or Sedan? Selecting the ideal vehicle begins by aligning daily driving needs, seating requirements, and utility goals with a well-planned financial structure. Drivers comparing a compact option like the Tucson SEL against a larger three-row crossover like the Palisade Calligraphy benefit from establishing target spending parameters early. Utilizing an Finance Calculator, What Can I Afford? enables prospective buyers to adjust term lengths, down payment values, and interest estimates to determine how specific vehicle prices translate into predictable monthly payments. Once a target model range and budget are established, securing approval is convenient and straightforward. Completing a confidential online credit application allows finance experts to connect with regional and national lending institutions to arrange competitive rate options prior to your arrival. Furthermore, drivers planning to customize their crossover or sedan with utility add-ons—such as roof rack crossbars, all-weather floor mats, or factory trailer hitches—can explore Parts & Accessories to integrate these additions directly into their final financing package. Arriving at your vehicle appointment with key documentation—including current proof of income, auto insurance details, and valid vehicle titles if trading in an existing car—ensures an efficient, seamless transition into ownership. This proactive approach keeps the vehicle delivery experience clear, fast, and structured around your long-term satisfaction. Here are answers to common questions regarding crossover dimensions, hybrid charging, factory warranty protection, and all-wheel-drive availability across the lineup. Frequently Asked Questions Which Hyundai crossover is smallest and easiest to park? The subcompact Venue is the most compact crossover in the lineup, featuring an overall length under 160 inches. Its elevated seating position and tight turning radius make maneuvering through narrow lanes and tight parking spots effortless, while standard Hyundai SmartSense safety features assist with daily collision avoidance. How does the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid recharge its battery system? The Elantra Hybrid does not require an external plug or charging station. Instead, it utilizes a self-charging hybrid setup that captures kinetic energy during deceleration and braking, redirecting that electrical power back into the battery. The gasoline engine and electric motor work together automatically to maximize fuel efficiency without changing standard driving routines. What warranty protection accompanies a new Hyundai vehicle? Every new model comes with comprehensive coverage, including a 10-year / 100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and a 5-year / 60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty. Owners also receive 5-year / unlimited-mile roadside assistance coverage, which provides round-the-clock emergency support for tire changes, jumpstarts, and unexpected vehicle disablements. Which Hyundai models offer HTRAC all-wheel drive? All-wheel drive with HTRAC AWD is available across crossover models including the Kona, Tucson, Santa Fe, and Palisade. Selected trims also include multi-terrain drive modes, allowing power distribution to adapt seamlessly when navigating unpaved secondary roads around Stockdale during rain or snow. What documentation should buyers bring when purchasing or financing a car? When preparing to complete your purchase, bring a valid driver's license, up-to-date auto insurance cards, recent proof of income, and a current utility bill for residency verification. If you intend to trade in your current vehicle, bring the title, vehicle registration, and all original key fobs. Still have questions about choosing the right crossover or sedan? Review our showroom Herrnstein Hyundai Hours and Directions to plan a visit or speak directly with a sales representative. 2 Where Can You Test Drive and Service Your Next Hyundai Vehicle? Selecting your ideal crossover or sedan becomes simple when you experience its performance in person. Visiting Get Directions to Herrnstein Hyundai allows you to compare cabin room, inspect active driver-assist technologies, and take your preferred model on a comprehensive test drive. Our knowledgeable sales specialists are available at Call us at (740) 779-6555 to answer questions or help arrange your appointment. Beyond the initial purchase, long-term vehicle reliability relies on routine maintenance performed by certified technicians using genuine OEM parts. You can easily Schedule Service online to keep your engine, brakes, and safety systems functioning at factory standards for years to come. © 2026 Herrnstein Hyundai. All rights reserved.
2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz: Trims, Towing, and Rural Value
The 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz is the right pick for buyers who want a compact crew-cab pickup that handles farm chores, hauls gear for weekend fishing trips, and seats five in genuine comfort — all without the bulk of a full-size truck. Prices start at $30,300 for the SE 2.5 and top out at $42,775 for the XRT 2.5 AWD, which jumps to 281 hp and 5,000 lbs towing capacity. Every trim carries a about 27 cu ft cargo bed, a 5-passenger cabin, and a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance technology. Table of Contents How Well Does the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz Serve Beaver Township Families and Outdoor Enthusiasts? Exterior Styling and Rugged Design Features Tailored for Rural Terrain Powertrain Performance and Towing Capacity of the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz in Rural Ohio Interior Comfort and Space for Families and Workers Infotainment and Connectivity Features That Enhance the Driving Experience Safety Technologies and Driver Assistance Systems Built for Rural Roads Comprehensive Pricing Breakdown of All 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz Trims Warranty Coverage and Maintenance Services Supporting 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz Owners Awards, Expert Reviews, and Recognition Highlighting the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz's Strengths Frequently Asked Questions from Shoppers About the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz How Well Does the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz Serve Beaver Township Families and Outdoor Enthusiasts? The 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz fits the rhythms of rural life in Beaver Township better than most vehicles in its class. It is a four-door crew cab with a usable open bed, a comfortable interior, and a footprint small enough to navigate gravel lanes and county roads without the unwieldy length of a traditional midsize pickup. For a family that farms during the week, fishes at Beaver Creek on the weekend, and needs to haul a trailer to a community event, the Santa Cruz covers all three tasks without compromise. The five-trim lineup — SE 2.5, SE 2.5 AWD, SEL Activity 2.5, SEL Activity 2.5 AWD, and XRT 2.5 AWD — gives buyers a clear ladder from a practical front-wheel-drive entry point up to a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive workhorse. Every trim is assembled at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, so the supply chain is domestic and service intervals are well-supported by Hyundai dealers throughout Ohio. If you have questions about which configuration fits your specific situation, Herrnstein Hyundai has a frequently asked questions resource covering common Santa Cruz buyer concerns. Shoppers who want to explore a more budget-conscious path can also browse our pre-owned vehicle inventory for prior-model Santa Cruz listings. Whether you are replacing a worn-out work truck or adding a second vehicle that doubles as a daily driver and weekend hauler, the Santa Cruz lineup gives Beaver Township households a genuine range of options. Exterior Styling and Rugged Design Features Tailored for Rural Terrain At 195.7 inches long, 75 inches wide, and 66.7 inches tall (66.9 inches on the SEL Activity 2.5, SEL Activity 2.5 AWD, and XRT 2.5 AWD), the Santa Cruz occupies a purposeful middle ground between a crossover and a pickup. The 118.3-inch wheelbase keeps the turning circle manageable at 475.3 inches curb-to-curb — a practical advantage when backing down a narrow farm lane or maneuvering in a tight feed-store parking lot. Ground clearance is 8.6 inches across all five trims, and the approach angle is 16.9 degrees on the SE and SEL Activity variants. The XRT 2.5 AWD sharpens that to a 19.9-degree approach angle, making it the most capable trim for uneven terrain. The departure angle holds at 23.2 degrees across the lineup. Painted front and rear bumpers are standard on every trim, and 18-inch alloy wheels with 9.6-inch-wide all-season tires are fitted across the board — no trim gets a steel-wheel compromise. The SEL Activity 2.5 and SEL Activity 2.5 AWD add black roof rails and a glass sunroof as standard equipment, while the XRT 2.5 AWD distinguishes itself with black exterior mirrors and a sliding rear cab window rather than the fixed glass on lower trims. All trims include a fixed rear cargo box step, making it easy to load supplies without climbing over the tailgate. Feature SE 2.5 SE 2.5 AWD SEL Activity 2.5 SEL Activity 2.5 AWD XRT 2.5 AWD Curb weight 3,785 lbs 3,931 lbs 3,900 lbs 4,045 lbs 4,160 lbs Towing 3,500 lbs 3,500 lbs 3,500 lbs 3,500 lbs 5,000 lbs Payload 1,738 lbs 1,735 lbs 1,623 lbs 1,621 lbs 1,638 lbs All five trims share 5-passenger seating and an about 27 cu ft cargo bed. The SE 2.5 carries the highest payload at 1,738 lbs, while the XRT 2.5 AWD leads on towing at 5,000 lbs. If you're trading in a current vehicle to fund the purchase, it's worth getting a precise figure — you can estimate your current vehicle's trade-in value online before you visit the showroom. Powertrain Performance and Towing Capacity of the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz in Rural Ohio The powertrain story across the 2027 Santa Cruz lineup splits into two distinct chapters. The SE 2.5, SE 2.5 AWD, SEL Activity 2.5, and SEL Activity 2.5 AWD all share Hyundai's naturally aspirated Smartstream 2.5L four-cylinder, producing 191 hp at 6,100 rpm and 181 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Paired with the SHIFTRONIC 8-speed automatic, this engine handles everyday hauling, gravel-road commuting, and light trailer work with straightforward competence. The XRT 2.5 AWD is a different machine entirely. Its turbocharged Smartstream 2.5L four-cylinder generates 281 hp at 5,800 rpm and 311 lb-ft of torque at 1,700 rpm — torque arriving nearly 2,300 rpm earlier than the naturally aspirated engine. That broad, low-rpm torque band is exactly what you want when pulling a loaded livestock trailer up a modest grade on a Beaver Township back road, and the XRT's 5,000 lbs towing rating reflects it. The three AWD trims — SE 2.5 AWD, SEL Activity 2.5 AWD, and XRT 2.5 AWD — add full-time all-wheel drive with both automatic and manual drive selection modes, giving drivers meaningful traction control on wet or muddy farm access roads. All trims run on regular 87-octane unleaded fuel and carry a 17.7-gallon main tank. The front-wheel-drive trims use a conventional strut front and multi-link rear suspension; the AWD trims add a center differential lock. Every trim gets four-wheel disc brakes with two ventilated front discs, ABS, brake assist, electronic hand brake with auto hold, and hill holder — the full safety-oriented braking suite. Browse our current new Santa Cruz inventory to see which powertrain configurations are in stock. If you're ready to move forward, you can also submit a credit application online and get a head start on the financing process before your visit. Interior Comfort and Space for Families and Workers The Santa Cruz's crew cab gives all five passengers genuine room rather than the token rear-seat squeeze common in compact trucks. Front headroom measures 40.2 inches on the SE trims and 38.2 inches on the SEL Activity and XRT trims — the difference attributable to the panoramic sunroof standard on those upper trims. Rear headroom is 39.6 inches across the lineup. Front leg room is 41.4 inches; rear leg room is 36.5 inches. Front shoulder room is 57.7 inches and rear is 56.1 inches, with front hip room at 54.5 inches and rear at 53.5 inches. For a family loading up for a drive to Beaver Creek State Park, those rear dimensions translate to real comfort for adults, not just children. The seating configuration is 2+3 across all trims, with front bucket seats and a rear split-bench. On the SE 2.5 and SE 2.5 AWD, both front seats are manually adjusted. Starting with the SEL Activity 2.5, the driver's seat gains 5-way power adjustment including electric height, reach, recline, tilt, and lumbar — a meaningful upgrade for the driver who spends long days behind the wheel. Front and rear seats are trimmed in synthetic leather (H-Tex) in either Black or Medium Gray on the SE and SEL Activity trims; the XRT is available in Black H-Tex only. Storage is thoughtfully distributed: a full floor console, a partial overhead console, front cup holders, and below-seat rear storage. The SEL Activity and XRT trims add a cargo area light, illuminated vanity mirrors, and a wireless charging pad. The XRT also includes a heated steering wheel wrapped in leather. For genuine Hyundai accessories — bed liners, cross rails, cargo organizers — the official Hyundai accessories catalog for this dealership is the best place to browse fitment-specific options. Feature SE 2.5 SE 2.5 AWD SEL Activity 2.5 SEL Activity 2.5 AWD XRT 2.5 AWD Horsepower 191 hp 191 hp 191 hp 191 hp 281 hp Torque 181 lb-ft 181 lb-ft 181 lb-ft 181 lb-ft 311 lb-ft Drivetrain Front-wheel drive All-wheel drive Front-wheel drive All-wheel drive All-wheel drive All five trims share a 2.5L engine and SHIFTRONIC 8-speed automatic transmission. Infotainment and Connectivity Features That Enhance the Driving Experience Every 2027 Santa Cruz trim ships with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster — the only difference is that the SE trims use a 4.2-inch analog-TFT hybrid cluster while the SEL Activity and XRT trims receive a fully reconfigurable 12.3-inch digital cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard across all trims, meaning no cable is required to mirror your phone. Both integrations are included as lifetime subscriptions. Bluetooth connectivity, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, AM/FM/digital radio, and a 3-month SiriusXM trial subscription round out the audio baseline on every trim. The SE and SE AWD trims carry a 6-speaker audio system. The XRT 2.5 AWD steps up to an 8-speaker Bose sound system, a meaningful upgrade for anyone who spends time on the road and values audio quality. Hyundai's Bluelink+ connected services platform is standard on all trims, providing remote start, remote lock/unlock, vehicle diagnostics, geo-fencing, speed alerts, theft notification, and driving history analysis — all accessible through a smartphone app. The telematics subscription is included for the life of the vehicle. The SEL Activity and XRT trims add a 36-month remote HVAC subscription, letting you pre-cool or pre-heat the cabin before you get in — useful on cold Ohio mornings before a day of farm work. The XRT 2.5 AWD also includes built-in navigation with a 12.3-inch 3D map display, voice guidance, live traffic information, and map updates — both on a 36-month included subscription. A Surround View Monitor with front, rear, and side cameras is also XRT-exclusive standard equipment. If you'd like to see the Santa Cruz's infotainment system in person, check our dealership hours and directions before making the trip to 2827 River Rd, Chillicothe. Safety Technologies and Driver Assistance Systems Built for Rural Roads The 2027 Santa Cruz carries a strong safety foundation across every trim. NHTSA awarded the Santa Cruz an overall 5-star crash test rating, with 5 stars in both frontal and side impact categories and a 4-star rollover rating. IIHS testing returned Good ratings in the small overlap front driver-side and side impact tests, with Good headlight performance as well. Standard driver-assistance technology on the SE 2.5 and SE 2.5 AWD includes Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) with Pedestrian Detection, which activates at speeds above 6 mph and applies the brakes at low speeds from both front and rear directions. Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) monitors lane position and applies corrective steering input when drift is detected. Blind Collision Warning (BCW) monitors the blind spot zones and alerts the driver without requiring a turn signal. Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (RCCA) uses radar to detect crossing traffic when reversing and can apply the brakes to prevent a collision. A rear camera with guidance display is standard on all trims. The SEL Activity 2.5 and SEL Activity 2.5 AWD add an emergency call function and an accident data recorder to the baseline suite. The XRT 2.5 AWD takes driver assistance to a higher level. Its forward collision system is named Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA) w/ Junction Turning, adding junction-turn detection to the standard pedestrian and vehicle detection. The XRT also includes NSCC (Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control) with stop-and-go function, which links the adaptive cruise system to the navigation map for predictive speed management — a genuine benefit on winding rural routes. Traffic sign recognition and autonomous drive Level 2 partial automation complete the XRT's safety package. All trims include 6 airbags — dual front, front side, and front-and-rear curtain — plus height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, a 3-point center rear seatbelt, and LATCH child-seat anchors. Comprehensive Pricing Breakdown of All 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz Trims The 2027 Santa Cruz lineup covers a $12,475 spread from the entry-level SE 2.5 to the fully-loaded XRT 2.5 AWD, with each step up the ladder adding meaningful equipment rather than cosmetic differentiation. Feature SE 2.5 SE 2.5 AWD SEL Activity 2.5 SEL Activity 2.5 AWD XRT 2.5 AWD Base MSRP $30,300 $31,800 $34,700 $36,200 $42,775 All trims carry a $1,600 destination charge. The SE 2.5 at $30,300 is the most accessible entry point — front-wheel drive, 191 hp, manual front seats, 6-speaker audio, and the full standard safety suite. The SE 2.5 AWD adds all-wheel drive for $31,800, a $1,500 premium that makes sense for anyone who regularly drives unpaved roads in wet or icy conditions. The SEL Activity 2.5 at $34,700 is a significant step up in daily usability: it adds a standard tonneau cover over the cargo bed, a 5-way power driver's seat with lumbar support, dual-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, black roof rails, heated front seats, a wireless charging pad, illuminated vanity mirrors, a cargo area light, and a sliding rear cab window. The SEL Activity 2.5 AWD brings all of that to all-wheel drive for $36,200. The XRT 2.5 AWD at $42,775 is the performance-oriented flagship: the turbocharged engine, 5,000-lb towing, Bose audio, full navigation, Surround View Monitor, NSCC adaptive cruise, heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and the upgraded autonomous drive Level 2 package. For buyers who tow regularly and want the most capable version of the Santa Cruz, the XRT justifies its price in capability. To learn more about the dealership's history and commitment to the Chillicothe area, visit our about page. Warranty Coverage and Maintenance Services Supporting 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz Owners Hyundai backs the 2027 Santa Cruz with a warranty structure that is among the most generous in the compact truck segment. The basic vehicle warranty runs 5 years or 60,000 miles. The powertrain warranty extends to 10 years or 100,000 miles — covering the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components that matter most to buyers who use their truck for real work. Anti-corrosion protection runs 7 years, and the paint warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles. Roadside assistance is included for 5 years with unlimited mileage. Hyundai Bluelink+ also provides vehicle diagnostics and breakdown assistance through the telematics system, so issues can be flagged before they become roadside problems. When service is needed, Herrnstein Hyundai's service department handles all Hyundai-authorized maintenance and warranty work. You can book a service appointment online at your convenience. Shoppers considering a certified pre-owned Santa Cruz from a prior model year can browse our certified pre-owned inventory for vehicles that carry an extended Hyundai CPO warranty. Awards, Expert Reviews, and Recognition Highlighting the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz's Strengths The Santa Cruz has earned consistent third-party recognition since its introduction. The NHTSA's 5-star overall crash test rating is the most direct safety credential in the segment, and the IIHS's Good ratings in side impact and small overlap front driver-side tests reinforce that the structure performs well in real-world crash scenarios. The IIHS also rated the Santa Cruz's headlights Good — a result that matters for rural drivers navigating dark county roads without streetlights. Industry observers have consistently noted the Santa Cruz's unusual positioning. The vehicle occupies a category of its own: more useful than a crossover for buyers who need an open bed, but more livable than a traditional compact pickup for buyers who spend most of their time on pavement. The combination of a crew cab with genuine rear-seat space, a composite-lined pickup bed with a standard tonneau cover on SEL Activity trims and above, and a technology package that rivals crossovers in the same price range makes the Santa Cruz a genuinely hard vehicle to replicate with alternatives from the Ford Maverick, Toyota Ridgeline, or Subaru Outback segments. The IIHS TSP (Top Safety Pick) designation further validates the Santa Cruz as a credible choice for families who prioritize occupant protection alongside utility. Frequently Asked Questions from Shoppers About the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz Q: What is the maximum towing capacity of the 2027 Hyundai Santa Cruz? The XRT 2.5 AWD is the only trim rated at 5,000 lbs towing capacity. All other trims — the SE 2.5, SE 2.5 AWD, SEL Activity 2.5, and SEL Activity 2.5 AWD — are rated at 3,500 lbs. The XRT achieves its higher rating through the turbocharged Smartstream 2.5L engine producing 311 lb-ft of torque, compared to 181 lb-ft on the naturally aspirated trims. For towing a small utility trailer or livestock trailer across the rolling terrain near Beaver Township, the 3,500-lb rating on the SE and SEL Activity trims is sufficient for most light hauling tasks. Q: Does the 2027 Santa Cruz come with all-wheel drive, and which trims offer it? Three of the five available trims offer all-wheel drive: the SE 2.5 AWD ($31,800), the SEL Activity 2.5 AWD ($36,200), and the XRT 2.5 AWD ($42,775). The SE 2.5 and SEL Activity 2.5 are front-wheel drive only. The AWD system on all three trims includes both automatic and manual drive selection modes. For buyers on gravel roads or wet farmland, the AWD trims are worth the premium. Q: How large is the cargo bed on the 2027 Santa Cruz? The pickup bed measures 52.1 inches in length, 53.9 inches in width, 42.7 inches between the wheelhouses, and sits at a 31.6-inch loading floor height. Total cargo volume is about 27 cu ft across all five trims. The bed includes a composite liner, sliding tie-down anchorage points, and load hooks as standard. The SEL Activity 2.5, SEL Activity 2.5 AWD, and XRT 2.5 AWD add a standard manual tonneau cover. Q: What payload can the 2027 Santa Cruz carry in the bed? Payload ratings vary slightly by trim due to curb weight differences. The SE 2.5 carries the highest payload at 1,738 lbs, followed by the SE 2.5 AWD at 1,735 lbs, the XRT 2.5 AWD at 1,638 lbs, the SEL Activity 2.5 at 1,623 lbs, and the SEL Activity 2.5 AWD at 1,621 lbs. All five trims are well-suited to hauling farming supplies, landscaping materials, or outdoor recreation gear. Q: Where can I see the 2027 Santa Cruz in person and what trims are available? Herrnstein Hyundai is located at 2827 River Rd, Chillicothe, OH 45601. You can view our current new vehicle inventory online to check which trims and configurations are on the lot before making the drive. To get directions to the showroom, use this map link. You can also reach the sales team directly at (740) 779-6555 to ask about specific trim availability or to schedule a test drive. © 2026 Herrnstein Hyundai. All rights reserved.