Should you Buy a Hyundai Santa Cruz? Thorough Review by A Mechanic
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- Опубліковано 23 лип 2024
- So Should you Buy a Hyundai Santa Cruz? Is it s Truck? Is it an SUV with a Bed? Does this thing make sense?
In this review with look at a 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz. This thing creates a lot of talk from the truck community about it not being a real truck and that it doesn't make any sense. But actually I see a use for this truck but it doesn't come without issues.
First we look at the technical side under the hood and under the car. Then we look at the inside, the outside, some things we like, some things we don't like then a final verdict.
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0:00 Intro
0:45 Under The Hood
8:46 Under The Car
13:15 Exterior Review
18:31 Interior Review
22:56 Things I Don't Like About It
25:46 Final Verdict - Авто та транспорт
Just took an 1800 mile road trip with our 2022 SEL and it was flawless. Wonderful truck. Quiet, smooth, and fun to drive. At age 71 , it is my first new vehicle.
Congrats Larry 👌
Yes I have a 22 sel activity, and I took a 2000 mile road trip and it was perfect. Same as you. Quiet and smooth!! 👍👍 love my Cruz
So happy for you! Congratulations, I got one too.
Congratulations on your first vehicle
56 year old shopper here and I've been having an ear out for what trouble they run into as they break in. Very helpful to hear they can be berable for long travel.
After having watched literally hundreds of auto vids in the last few months, this is by far the best one. Great to get the perspective of a mechanic - someone who will talk about potential issues that most other reviewers don't touch on. Very interesting about the higher trims and DCT transmissions. Went to an auto show yesterday and really liked the Santa Cruz. The good and the bad about the vehicle were clearly explained in this video. Definite thumbs up and subscription for this!
Did you buy a Santa Cruz after all your research? I'm asking because I'm considering the Santa Cruz after months of research and this vehicle fits the bill.
I got my '22 Santa Cruz SEL since they first came out, and I love it. I personally don't need the Turbo, or any of the fancy bells and whistles. It's not a truck, but it's "truck-enough" for my practical usage. Since ownership, I have been averaging 32mpg as well.
I bought the 2022 SEL AWD 2.5 NA for $29.5k over a year ago. Bought 18 " blizzaks for winter and Falken Wildpeak A/T for summer. Bought a soft tonneau cover and class III hitch. Love it! 30+ mpg and it exactly what I was looking for
Thanks for sharing! Definitely interested in the mileage and utility of it without the price of a “real truck.” Only wish is there was a hybrid option like the Ford Maverick. But from what you’re experiencing it may not be necessary.
I'm in the market. Its between this and the Maverick. Because of price I like base (non turbo no DCT). Anyone know the tow capacity? Online you can price it with AWD so I'm assuming that is an option on the low trim.
@@tonyk438 Gandering at the owner's manual for the 2023 year model, the only way you would obtain a 5000 lbs payload capacity is with a turbo, AWD, and 2 occupants. Anything else will only do 3500 lbs.
If anything, it should have no problem with things like small-ish boats, open trailer bed, another vehicle, an RV (small, travel, pop-up), a loaded 12' Uhaul cargo trailer.
@Dustin Holub Thanks! I'm looking at a Scamp trailer. Gotta figure out if 3500 would work. Maverick can do 4k. I really need to talk to Scamp manufacturer to find out I think.
I’m a truck guy and have been for 4 decades.
I just bought a 2024 XRT 2.5T Santa Cruz. I love the fuel mileage, power and the ability to throw some stuff in the back.
It’s my light truck and then I have my diesel when I need to actually pull
That's the way to do it.
Finally a big truck person who can appreciates what this vehicle for what it is and can do! To many big truck guys poop on this and maverick when in fact these vehicles are surprisingly very capable!
@@richardkusimenkah I use my Santa Cruz as a daily driver. I love the snappy little turbo under the hood of this little beast
Watch your battery. Mine has been treated like a baby. I’ve been through 4 batteries in as many months. Something is draining it and the service department can’t figure out what the problem is. Got a trickle charger . Battery still won’t hold charge ..
You nailed it when describing the target buyer. I love my Santa Cruz because it fits in city spaces much easier than a “real truck,” drives like a car/suv, and hauls what I need it to haul ( garden supplies, the occasional piece of furniture or appliance, and rec gear). Perfect for my urban needs.
yea no need to hit a curb in those sharp turns into grocery lots or need to worry about the length of your bed hitting a tail light when backing out a parking space, and no blind spots!
Best review I've seen so far of the Santa Cruz, thanks for your honest insight and observations! I bought a Santa Cruz new last month and I agree with almost all of your opinions here, love that you really explore every feature with a real-world lense and hit mechanical aspects as well.
I love my SC. I have the second from the top tier model. I do work on factory floors over a pretty wide geographic area. Lots of highway miles, and a small bed for my diagnostic took kits, and that locks. Bikes in the back on the weekend. Driven it coast to coast and it was great on 12 hour drive days. Perfect vehicle for what I do.
Hi how do you transport the bikes on this truck?
I use a Thule Easy Fold XT2 hitch mount rack. You'll need to get a hitch installed. This rack works really well as I usually have 2 heavy e-bikes on it. it's really pricey, though. I spent $750 on it last Summer, and I heard it's going for $1000 now. @@APOSTLESDOCTRINEPHOENIX
@@APOSTLESDOCTRINEPHOENIX a lot of folks are turning the front wheel 90 degrees to the side and hanging it over the back of the tailgate (with some sort of padding to protect the tailgate obviously).
The large rear shocks are for the passive self leveling system that comes on all trims. As the suspension moves, the shocks adjust to keep the bed level. It works very well.
Nice explanation.....thanks!!!
Auto leveling for weight on the rear axle or what? If so how is it compare to air suspension?
@@imnotusingmyrealname4566 These have fairly decent towing capacity, so it you're pulling a trailer (or a small camper) those rear struts are going to help level out that weight on the rear end.
Was shocked he missed that.
@@itsmemickey7541I wasn't at all.
This is the best Santa Cruz video on youtube. Thanks for making it.
Sidenote, it just so happens that the bed features specifically the cover and the somewhat hidden trunk storage are what ultimately sold me on seriously considering the Santa Cruz which we ended up buying. Without the integrated bed cover I doubt I would’ve even bought this because I think it makes the bed so much more usable on a day-to-day basis, secure storage out of sight not having to worry about it etc. since I wasn’t trying to buy a truck, the amount of open bed space was not a huge concern to me. So if you’re in the same situation as me when you’re comparing prices you gotta include that really nice bed cover when you’re looking at the price of for example a maverick or a Honda or even a Toyota. those things cost 3k +
You're thoughts are similar to mine.... thanks for the input!!
And, you can add a bed extender for less than $200 to make the bed functionally similar in size to larger beds...
The bed cover is what I love...
I'm back and forth about how much truck I want and need a comfortable daily driver too. I go camping and need more volume for gear and cooler than a hatchback provides. I also do beekeeping. It's currently between a used Subaru of some flavor and this Hyundai with the bed cover. But I'm the odd duck that wants no turbo, no DCT trouble as I take the unpaved roads in state parks, a tow hitch, the tonnau cover, leather-ette seats and fitted cabin liners. I'm feeling dealership won't want to make up a special low-ball priced package for me. The sales guy won't be interested in me and my piddly pocket book.
I'm picturing the closest thing to my 1999 Sportage with leather-ett seats in this dream SC. I start to see why I keep thinking about the SC. It's very like a roof-less Sportage of that very wide and open design of the time. I hauled so much in that SUV! If the SC could drive and take corners like my Nissan NX2000 did, it would be my dream car for sure.
Love the diagrams and outlines to help highlight what you're talking about, these reviews just keep improving.
I've often wondered about this vehicle. All my questions were answered with this very well done evaluation. Thanks for your expertise.
I've driven dozens of cars including the Ford Focus to the BMW 5-series over my lifetime including several trucks like the Chevy S-10 or Ram 1500. I can honestly say that, so far, Santa Cruz gave me the biggest satisfaction of ownership. With other vehicles, it's about getting from point A to point B or what kind of premium options I can enjoy. With SC possibility is wide open. In fact, I usually buy vehicles with full option. But with SC, I just bought base SEL AWD and am quite happy with it.
Same here I've had Cadillac, Ford, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep never would've thought a Hyundai would've been my favorite to drive out of all them.
Thanks for making another great idepth review! As I continue my search for a new ride, I ALWAYS find yours MOST helpful... Gid bless you and your family
@@floydgungl916His reviews are top notch
It’s certainly not for everyone. And I agree it’s definitely not a truck. I bought mine specifically because I was not looking for a truck. Just a capable vehicle with good gas mileage for two adults that had some capabilities to carry larger items occasionally but yet drove comfortably and was fun to drive. The limited trim came with some great tech features many of which I wasn’t sure I cared about that much, but now I love them including the lane changing cameras and all the other comfort and convenience tech. I love driving my limited because it feels like more of a sport sedan. it’s quick and powerful and smooth and the transmission works great at least for street driving. if you’re considering one of these make sure you understand that it is not a Jeep or some off-road machine. While I think it has some design elements that make it look mean and tough and it has a really great looking stance, it’s actually a pussycat underneath. Well something in between a pussycat and a cheetah. 😂
How much gas mileage (MPG) do you get and what’s the range? I’m a big dude 6’5 (300lbs) so trucks are definitely something I want to invest in. But gas ain’t cheap in Texas anymore. I heard it’s between 21-27 MPG?
The Santa Cruz NOT being a truck is the appeal to me.
Independent rear suspension and a unibody are much more preferable to me than body on frame construction and a live axle that I don't need.
Why didn’t you get the maverick instead?
@@curtismaloney7188 Styling.
There's nothing wrong with the Maverick - I like them, but it's not a vehicle that I'd really be into looks wise - and if I'm not into the look of a particular vehicle, I won't own it.
I have a 2018 Tucson and looking for a new car, love this design, thank your for your honest opinion Elessar!!
Stumbled on to your vehicle reviews. Love the mechanic angle/approach where you thoroughly cover the pluses and minuses of the engine and drivetrain in particular and the expert knowledge you share. Everyone seems to speak to the styling and infotainment features. Your honest insights and where you speak to the down-the-road reliability of the engineering are refreshing. Bravo, bravo!
The "I will self destruct in time transmission..." BEST LINE EVER
This is by far the best car review channel on UA-cam. Thanks for doing these reviews in depth. Love how you don’t compromise and roast what needs to be roasted. Will you ever do one of a Subaru Outback wilderness?? I’d love to see that review!
Agreed. It combines wholehearted good intentions with fair minded analysis. It's a model I try to apply in my work.
Amazed CCN only has 38k subscribers. Should be 4mil.
CCN does a good job... though he does seem to nit pick on non Toyotas, and sorta give a Toyota a pass when stuff is cheap. Like the exhaust and sound proofing comments.
Check out Alex on Autos also.. he does not tend to roast cars.. but concentrates on the facts, figures and dimensions and features.. and compares similar cars against each other.. does road testing.. 0-60, noise, ride, MPG etc. Hes been around a while.
@@kens97sto171 he gave the Mazda CX-5 a pretty good review I felt.
@@korndawggy1801
I'm not saying he doesn't do good reviews. And I definitely respect his mechanical ability. I've learned a lot by watching his videos.
A little bit harsh sometimes on non Toyota vehicles.
For example in this particular video you mentioned the lack of any cladding underneath the car or the exhaust and drive shaft were. Saying he thought there should be sound deadening material there or something. And yet he also commented that the car was extremely quiet while driving on the highway. Maybe that's why her day didn't put sound deadening material there because it wasn't necessary.
Toyota does plenty of dumb stuff mechanically with their cars too.
Different manufacturers seem to do different dumb stuff though lol.
Always great to see an objective and honest review from an expert. Hopefully you can get a Maverick soon to compare. A Ranger/Tacoma/Frontier/Colorado would also be good to show the mechanical difference when you go to body on frame.
We got the 2023 Limited. Love it so far. This is our "road trip" vehicle. It will suit our travelling needs just fine. Thanks for the review, and I'll keep my eyes open for the items you discussed.
I've been considering this vehicle, and seen many reviews, and honestly, hands down, this has been the best review!! Loved it!! Keep up the great work.
Most well rounded review ever. The last segment summary hits it on the nail.
Very good review!! You hit the nail on the head with this type of vehicle. Those who know, know. I'm a former Ridgeline owner and I would consider this vehicle. Tha ks for the info on the trans. I typically put 30k a year on my vehicles so reliability/durability takes priority over almost anything for me. Keep up the good work sir. 👏
Every time I watch one of your videos I learn something new, this is an awesome channel, love the detail you go into that very few other reviewers do.
You do phenomenal reviews. I have watched several of your Toyota/Lexus reviews and they are spot on and informative. I am so happy that I was not the only one concerned about a DCT in this vehicle. I went with a trim level that has all the options available without the DCT and Turbo engine. I wish it had the Turbo, but I can live with the lack of Power. The Santa Cruz has been a fantastic daily for my wife and fits our needs. Plus, it just looks pretty unique.
My dad and I were discussing engine choices. He wanted to have enough power without it feeling slow. He had a 1966 GTO back in the 70s. I compared my mom's 2019 Ram with the 395hp Hemi + 8spd and how he laughs at how silly it is with that much power. So, my point to him was: Do you really need a Turbo-charged 281hp and an 8spd in a smaller and 1000lbs lighter than my V8 Dakota (making ~240hp) with 100hp less than my mom's Ram? But what's the top speed of your mom's truck (limited 108mph, unlimited it could do 130mph+) is response: "OH, umm yeah smaller engine, cheaper insurance and less tickets."
Great review, have a 23 SEL and love it. Plenty of power with the NA engine. Very comfortable and practical and so much more functional than an SUV for carrying stuff around.
I have the 2024 Santa Cruz SEL with the 2.5 N/A engine. I get tired of these reviews with these guys running the turbo engines saying the naturally asperated engine is so under powered. I bet most of those idiots have never driven one to know anything about it. And since you can only get the DCT trans in the turbo model that makes it a no sale to me as the DCT's are junk. My wife and I both love our little truck and if we need a bigger truck we have our F-150 XLT Sport with a tuned 5.0 if need more power.
Anotherrrrrr…….interesting video as always! Keep up the heat shield details and muffler comments. That really does show you what your buying. Thank you.
Very good job and informative video. Thanks AMD for all your efforts and input you put in these videos.
This is the best review of a vehicle I've ever seen. Great job and thank you!
Love my SC with the turbo. The sweet spot for these seems to be the middle trims. At the low trim, you should really look at the Maverick for lower entry cost. At the high trim you should be looking at the Ridgeline or something else more capable. I am basically the target demographic so it fits me perfectly - a small town/rural suburban homeowner with messy hobbies that often has to park in a parking garage for work or in small city visits. I do dump runs every couple of weeks, take my mountain bike out, need to bring landscape or yardwork materials home through the spring and summer, have lowes or home depot lumber runs, etc. This thing covers all that kind of stuff without the thousand dollars extra in gas each year and dealing with a bigger vehicle that I would get with a midsize or full size truck.
Your nitpicks are pretty accurate though, that go pro fender thing was a very half-assed gimmick and the tonneau should have strictly been an extra you can add on to any trim, not included. It is well built and pretty rugged, but it eats up almost a foot of bed depth for large objects and is a pain to remove or install (from my understanding, I haven't tried yet).
I hope you got lot of money and paid cash for a disposable truck...I mean a turbo on a Hyundai Engine???? that's bollocks
ford is having all sorts of reliability problems--I have owned a stinger and now a Kona N and have had no problems with either and I have gone to public drag night with them--
@@JPisTheWord Bro why are you so nasty to people who owns a vehicle that isn't a toyota or a Honda?
@@JPisTheWord ....... the turbo engine option on the top version of this vehicle increasing the towing power from est. 3500 # tp 5000#.....there are some independant videos online that compare the two engines...and how the vehicle performance compares to the smaller pickup trucks......Santa Cruz was pretty darned capable in towing power comparisons.
Your description of your use of the vehicle is similar to mine. Thanks for your input.
Glad to hear your final thoughts on the Santa Cruz! This was easily the best deep dive I have seen on the "truck". Hope to cross paths again in the future. 👋
This is the best overall review of the Santa Cruz. I really enjoyed your under the chassis insight which was the only one of its kind I've seen so far. Your insights on the engine design were also excellent and the only one I've seen before. I really enjoy how you not only review how the vehicle looks but your comments on build quality are very insightful. One of your best reviews yet. Thank you for the excellent reivew.
Best review. You are so detailed and easy to understand. 👍
I bought a 23 Limited specifically because it wasn't a "real" truck. Just as you said at the end, I wanted it for some truck utility but for the most part I want a nice comfortable daily driver. Also, unlike the Maverick, the SC isn't trying to look like a truck and I love the way mine looks.
Good points!
I was considering buying one of these and you had great information on this vehicle that the dealer dosen't really talk about or maybe dosen't know. I don't need a limited or turbo in small truck. The base model is all I need for daily driver. Great video !
True indeed!
thank you for taking the time out or your day to make this video mate!
I just got the 2023 sel Activity. And damn this is literally my perfect vehicle so far. I don't need a full pickup but need a small bed for my creative lifestyle. I think the SEL and SEL activity is a great deal depending on what you want.
I have 13k on my turbo santa cruz with many upgrades making close to 400hp and havent had issues yet. Hyundai has stated they will replace transmissions with recalls with a loner car if ever afflicted (early models mine included... its an issue with the high pressure pump and not the transmission itself. I am an ASE Certified mechanic and shop manager) I do agree with many points expecially the exhaust bits. Brakes are plenty efficient. Suspension is great for what it is. Performance for what the vehicle is far beyond competitors. 0 to 60 times in the turbo version is a bit ridiculous for what the vehicle is.
Great input
Thx
Any links to what you did for the hp increase I myself have the same model for a month now n love it
Does it have true dual exhaust on it?
I passed on a great deal today for a Limited ‘24 because I wanted to wait for the next gen. But it’s tempting not to. Coming with a 2017 Audi S5 the turbos are the one. Only somewhat concerned about what I’m hearing with the DCT.
@@kt9495 So I have the trasmission with the recall in 2022. I am Highly modified and the transmission is great. The recall is only on the high flow oil pump. If it fails. New transmission under warranty regardless of mods due to the recall.
With the corrected oil pump on the 2023s and up... the transmission can easily handle 400+ AWHP. Keep in mind... this is not a dry dct. It is a wet DCT. Wet DCTs are what they use in bugatti, paganni, ferrari. Hell half the super cars out there use wet dct transmissions. Most cheaper cars use dry dct. This is the reason for shift farts vs smooth shifts. The Santa Cruz has wet dct for many reasons but Hyundai is using their lines to experiment for their Genesis line.
My Santa Cruz runs sub 5 second 0 to 60 times (again highly modified with mostly custom parts) and can easily beat any wrx (bolt ons or not... with tuner or not)... roll raced a 500whp 2003 rustang on the highway from 50 to 120... walked like a dog in the park. Beat a tesla model 3 from a dig to 60.
So from a highly modified view with the troubled transmission to a potential buyer of a 2023 or later stock reliability standpoint... i have 25k miles on my car now. With over 10k miles of harsh driving with way more power and still holding up... Id say the rumors... although true.. are very far between. (I say this now and my tranny blows tomorrow! Hahahaha! Wouldnt that be funny... for all but me. Lol!) But yeah... no problems for me on a modified 2022.
As usual, excellent review which provides useful information. Thank you very much!
All my vehicles have been trucks but my first. I like my santa cruz. It fits in my garage and just great for hauling plywood etc. The 2.5 turbo has giving up to 30 mpg. Love the extra power and the comfort of it interior. I also love driving it.
Thanks for the honest review - the comparison of the two engines is especially helpful. I'm currently driving my wife's "old" 2007 Santa Fe with over 200,000 miles on it and it just won't quit, so we've been very impressed (I've owned other Hyundai's as well). The Santa Cruz would be for "retirement" and would possibly get used to pull a small camper, but I'm also a musician, and the lockable bed on these is perfect for hauling valuable music gear out of sight (and with plenty of room).
P.S. The Lord bless you as well!!!
I compared the Ridgeline to the Santa Cruz extensively before finally deciding on the Ridgeline. Yep, the DCT was a major deciding factor. I tow a motorcycle trailer around 3,500 pounds, and I don't need that DCT to go out on me. The rear seat of the Ridgeline is much more usable and can carry actual passengers. The bed size is obvious. The resale value of the Santa Cruz is dismal compared to the Ridgeline. BUT, the Santa Cruz LOOKS AWSOME!
AMD, thank you for all that you are doing! Yes, may the Lord bless you and keep you and your family
I believe all 2nd Gen. RLs have DCTs. Honda automatic transmissions give out mostly in the heavier V6 models… like the RL or the Odyssey. Their 4-cyl. manual transmissions lasted forever back in the day. I have a 2019 RL, and it’s a DCT.
Thanks for the great review! I am taking a serous look at the Santa Cruz and its awesome to have such an in depth review of the build!
Just bought one of these, and I'm the buyer you mentioned at the end of the video. It drives like a car, fits in my garage, but I chose it over a RAV4 because I need an open bed. I really hope Toyota comes out with a competitor so I can come back home! Really liked the review.
Santa Cruz over a Rav4???🤦♂
@@JPisTheWord he needs a small open bed .
@@JPisTheWordAnd?
@@JPisTheWordwhy not? He/she mentioned open bed. That's the requirement. Rav4 can't do that.
@@jmartyt9810 Just throw it in the back of a RAV4. I’ve carried rocks and dirt in my RAV4. It’s suspension is super stiff and sags less than half tons. Pickups and sedans are useless vehicles.
Nice review. I have the SEL with Activity Package. It is exactly what I needed and wanted. Highway mileage is getting 34 mpg. Great ride. Quite and comfortable. Two things I don't think you hit on were 1400 pound payload and 3500 pound towing capacity.
So glad to hear that!!! That is exactly the combo l want to get for my next vehicle.....thanks for the input. Good to know you are getting better mileage than estimated.
I got the same trim. I love it...
Now, I do consider that the highest trim, not always the best you can buy. Thanks to this wonderful review.
I really like your review to the point and you can call out things that are bad and not just read the brochure like other reviewers
My only problem with this thing is the bed seems a bit too short. Instead of having that bed cover, they should’ve made the back wall collapsible so that the bed extends into the back seats.
I own a SC and I agree with your statement. Although I do like the sliding bed cover they could’ve made it lighter and easy to remove then with pass-through fold-down rear seats few could reasonably complain about the bed length.
I miss our Chevrolet Avalanche too
Nice review! I'm impressed that You found a genuine use for it :) the Hyundai classics were mentioned like DCT and turbo in the rear of the engine bay :D I'd actually pay the dealer more money to cover the piano black with a tape or something. I just hope the switch between shortcuts and AC control will be gone in few years when I visit the dealership for a next car - again, I'd pay more to get the traditional buttons :/
I kinda expected You to comment a bit more on the Smartstream engine with CVVD tech :p
Engineering Explained channel was pretty impressed with it, but looking at the numbers like 5% more fuel efficiency and 4% more power output, it seems like something a regular user won't notice.
I love this guy . He really knows his stuff !!
This was an extremely useful vid for me when you first published & I was doing research knowing my current 15 yr old Ford Escape hybrid was on its last legs. It gave up the ghost end of December & I bought a non-Turbo Santa Cruz SE. Think it will be perfect for my needs. Thank you again!
I'd love to see your review of the Ridgeline and your thoughts on its quality and features. Awesome review of the whole santa cruz
The large rear shocks on the Santa Cruz are mono tube automatic self leveling ride control units. They work great and are a valuable feature for carrying a heavy payload without bottoming out. Better payload than the 2017 Tacoma Off Road Double Cab Long Bed 4x4 that I had for 5 years.
Tacoma DCLB 4x4 payload-about 950 pounds.
Santa Cruz payload-1,400 pounds with better ride and handling.
The Santa Cruz plastic pieces on the leading edges of suspension components is a nice feature. It keeps those steel pieces from becoming gravel, sand blasted and rusted out over time. Something that happens to the rear shocks and suspension when you drive on graveled and sanded snow covered highways or graveled country roads on property.
The Santa Cruz weighs about 4,100 pounds. It's built pretty stout. As a small vehicle, it's only a few hundred pounds lighter than a larger Tacoma 4x4 Double Cab Long Bed 4x4.
The tonneau will get in the way for carrying motorcycles or long sofas.
The tonneau cover works fine and doesn't get in the way if you're carrying 8 ft lumber, fence posts and boards or any other yard construction or landscape materials.
But a Tacoma, will last 3x miles than a Santa Cruz if properly taken care of
@FaWaSmE Yeah but not everyone wants a bigger truck though.
A great review in and out. Loved the attention to detail!
You are such a wonderful speaker! I enjoyed this so much that you gained a new subscriber!
💜
Just thinking about this review and what I really need in a pick-up.
1.excellent reliability (what good is a pick-up without that?).
2. Great handing and road feel (a pickup that's an SUV is great for that) 99% of the time I'm on-road and the worst traction moments for me would be torrential rain or bad snow storm. An automatic traction system is best and safest instead of manually needing to switch to 4-hi or 4-low.
3. Some usable space (mid size works best with space for stuff and passengers)
4. Decent payload for the occasional used engine or trans. on a pallet. 1500lbs will do it.
5. Light to medium towing for moving the occasional small trailer full of furniture, 5000lbs max is fine.
6.quiet ride that's smooth when empty or loaded with a rear suspension that doesn't put me in a tree if I approach the exit too quickly (rear independent suspension is perfect for a street only non offroader).
I'll take a Ridgeline thankyou, now if only they would build a hybrid model with the Acua MDX Type S drivetrain. Sorry, I'm just dreaming. 😂🙏
I have a 2011 Ridgeline EX-L Navi… and I would like something smaller and better on gas, but the more reviews I watch, the more I appreciate my Ridgeline. It just keeps going and going …
Totally agree with AMD's assessment...Nathan from TFL got a SEL with the non-turbo engine and 8 speed auto, and with knobs on the stereo and wireless Carplay/Android Auto. I think that would be the sweet spot, except for me the SEL with the Convenience Package for the moonroof would be ideal. The only thing missing from the SEL Premium & Limited trims, that I'd want honestly, are the LED headlights.
I have the non turbo SEL with the activity package. I put LED lights on myself with no problem. Love my SC. I'm a suburban homeowner and do it yourselfer. This car/truck is perfect for me. AND, I love the way it drives. Much more fun than my previous '15 Highlander.
I got the non-turbo SEL (without activity package) for the same reasons you outlined. Physical controls + gauges, heated seats, conveniences like lane shift warnings, remote start, etc. The only thing I wanted out of the activity package was the tonneau cover...but I wasn't willing to spend 3 grand to get that with all of the stuff I didnt want (like the moon roof, or sliding back window). I can always get a foldable tonneau cover later on for like 400 bucks.
I love the vehicle. The 191 HP is just fine on the base engine. I've had my SC since September 2022, and I still get compliments from random strangers when I take it into town. They have so many questions lol. Never got that in my previous vehicles.
Great review!!! You have a simple common sense way of explaining complex mechanical definitions. I hope you review more trucks like this.
I love your reviews, please never stop!
You're one of the only mechanics/reviewers that gets into the details about the engine and transmission which is what I most want to hear. Car manufacturers don't explain half as much these days as they used to and salespeople almost never know these details. I also appreciate your common sense observations and opinions. You usually confirm what I was already thinking, but you say it in a nicer way! 😉
Cool, compact ute for running around town in right up until the warranty ends and the engine chugs oil or the transmission explodes. I'm glad to see these compact trucks coming back since full size and even mid size trucks are getting far to big and expensive for most people.
Really great review and presentation. Enjoyed your directness and explaining this vehicle in an non- salesman style.
I have thought about this vehicle as an step down from my 2011 Tundra. I am loyal Toyota Man but at 62 years old, retired and crusing towards my last days, I don't use my Tundra as an truck. I just like the cab and how it helps me to see ahead.
The Santa Cruz is on my list of replacements for my Tundra.
Great Work!!
I subscribed
Well thought out and organized review Mr. Car Care Nut.
It’s for those light duty everyday things. They’re just for those occasional bulky items that you just can’t fit in certain vehicles at a certain price points. One should never set their expectations at an unreasonable level here. It is a decent reasonable vehicle. If you want a full fledged truck then you buy one of those and be done with it.
I have a 2023 SC Limited. I do like it quite a bit, But I think the best way to summarize it is a car with a lot of great ideas behind it but also with a lot of compromises. The car for it's price point is pretty feature rich, but is missing:
- A HUD
- Memory seats
- Power Passenger seat
- Rear center arm rest
- Usable rear storage
- Any kind of practicality to the rear glass window
Also, while the outlet in the bed is nice, Hyundai just kind of threw it in there because other trucks have it. It's power draw is actually the same as a cigarette outlet, so you can't actually use it for anything other than like, charging a phone. No tools, no big radio, no generator, no small cooking appliances for camping, etc. You'd be hard pressed to even charge something like a laptop.
Another thing is the bed lights only come on with a switch by the driver side foot well, or when the storage bin is open. So if you tend to keep you cover closed, you have to constantly make sure to hit the button to see anything.
My last big gripe is the headlights and radar on the limited. He already mentioned in the video about the headlights getting covered in snow. Its 100% true. The bottom of the car just eats up all that shit on the road and it gets stuck there. That also affects the front camera/radar which affects cruise control and forward collision assist. The front radar is so bad with weather I've already had it deactivate from just moderate rain, let alone snow.
It rides super nice. Handles like an SUV so its super smooth. The AWD handles great in inclement weather. And the fuel economy is pretty good. I think eventually though I'd like to swap to a fully loaded Tacoma or Tundra with the hybrid engine. Still get decent mpgs but also get all the truck stuff with out compromises.
And no USB-C style plugs in the cabin...fail!
I transport up to three foster dogs along with my two on a regular basis. A manual passenger seat is a plus because it moves forward so much faster than a power seat.
Honest review, better than any I have viewed.
You have the best reviews ever. No BS or hype.
The Santa Cruz I own, Turbo tricked out at 24,000 miles that transmission is going out.
The door seal around the drivers door had to be replaced the 1st time at 6,000mi. This because a tall person 6"+, rubs their butt across the door seal upon entry. Door seals are not warranty items, even with the upgraded warranty.
The reason for the "large" rear shocks is because it has self leveling rear suspension - loaded up with things like bags of mulch the bed doesn't droop like the F-150 I had which was replaced by my '22 Santa Cruz Limited. Great overall review! I would point out that many SC owners with the DCT are reporting issues - Hyundai has been pretty cagey about the recall and fix. I had mine it for the "drivability" recall and much preferred the way it drove before the update was done (and that was months ago so it's not a relearn drive it some and it'll get better issue). I'm on the fence as to if I'll have the recall done (scheduled for next week) - I've heard reports of the truck "bricking" itself after it's been "updated" and requiring a new transmission. Honestly, even with all the concerns it's been GREAT and I have no regrets in replacing my 2018 F-150 XLT 5.0l with this. By the way - I call it a "SUV Car Truck Thing" - I've only gotten a few weird looks from "truck people" - most (even in HD trucks like 2500 and F-250) seem to like it after they look at it. If you need a truck then buy a "real" truck if you need a truck bed occasionally then this or the Maverick works well!
Best car review I have ever seen!! Thank you!!
I love these detailed videos! Thank you!
Hope to see this format "should you buy" with the new Lexus RX and Toyota Grand Highlander
So, to get a decent transmission you buy the naturally-aspirated model. But, my big question is do they still insist on low-tension piston rings, because if they do then it's an oil burner and not worth buying at any price.
I looked at it and finally decided on the hybrid Maverick because of the tremendous gas mileage
Great coverage
As usual
Thanks *very* much for this! It was quite helpful!
The 10 year/100,000 miles is a great selling point, but as many have stated, it’s all about whether they will do the warranty work. Genesis should have their own dealerships, not in the same building as Hyundai and Kia. We looked into Genesis as well, but steered toward Lexus due to more positive dealership experience. YMMV.
Hyundai wont fix or replace the transmission on my NEW Santa Cruz. 7 months old, 7,000 miles. DO NOT TRUST HYUNDAI
@@cmscms123456 FAKE NEWS TROLL.
@@cmscms123456 quit trolling. The bumper to bumper warranty would cover this......unless you did something to void it
@@cmscms123456 yeah thats exactly right.
mechanic dude at hyundai dealership once told me similar story.
and the owner drives lexus. 😂😂
@@moondog3056 Crushed that trans off roading I suspect.
I was set on buying this, but you've changed my mind lol. Ford Maverick next pls?
Great information and perspective on the mechanical parts!
Thank You. Most complete review I have seen.
"They made a bit of a small compromise. And when I say small, I mean a big compromise." 😂
We just got a 2024 Limited for my wife. It is absolutely amazing to drive and the mileage is great. I have a 2019 GMC Sierra with the 12,200 lb tow package so we didn’t need another truck. I like the looks of it inside and out. Mileage is almost 31 on the interstate and should get better once it gets some miles on it. It is quite fast off the line. It is just fun. I did purchase the full 100,000 mile warranty.
It’s also very quiet inside at interstate speeds.
Great job! I’m now a new subscriber 👍👍
Great, thorough review! Thanks!
Not in a million years will I ever buy a Hyundai/Kia again after all the bull I had to go through with the recall on my mom's vehicle....
I do not recommend to purchase a Hyundai Santa Fe. I just had mine replaced the transmission at 2000 miles. They also have replaced the transmission computer and it still continues to have issues I found out that all of the dual clutch transmissions. have the same issues and they cannot figure out the problem
You do the best reviews
Thanks for doing an honest review and identifying potential long-term reliability issues.
The oil cooler and the transmission choices were probably choices made to try to get to 5k tow rating.
😂😂😂 Love the calling of the GoPro mount a "situation" 🤣🤣🤣 👍👍👍 Why not place the mount UNDER the side-view mirror... so the "situation" is UNDER control 🙃
Thanks again for the thorough & honest review!!!
P.S. Hope Hyundai purchased all the rights to copy that "Lockable Trunk Space", Storage Space under the rear seats, a squashed Subaru Ex-Forester profile, the early Jeep Cherokee snow & bugs block my head-lights (which can be a good feature for deterring owners from following too closely to the cars in front 🤨) ...
The go pro BS is one of those things that a committee of hipsters just HAD to have on it. That gimmick at an auto show or on a concept vehicle that is supposed to force a certain vehicle culture around it... Feels like Hyundai gave up on the gimmick as it came to full production as well.
The buyer of this truck is someone who couldn't find a Maverick for sale anywhere in their town except from scalpers. Hopefully, that will be different with the 2025 models.
this is a real car review, not the frou-frou fluff that mainstream utubers offer up. subscribed.
If I was looking at this, I would get Honda ridge line
I'm not even in the market to buy this car but I'm still watching. Very informative.
I've had this for a year now. This is the most accurate review I've seen. While I love the safety tech, my transmission failed at 4k miles. The most herky jerky transmission I've ever had in a vehicle. Overall I wish I would have kept my 2017 Ridgeline. It's just a tad bit roomier in all the most important places with a smooth transmission and stable V6. Hyundai made some dumb decisions with this vehicle.
The DCT gearbox is a dum idea and problamatic. In Australia they put the DCT in the diesel Santa fe. They have a great 8 speed auto that is in the 3.5 litre petrol Santa fe version. A great gearbox.
Best part of it was the cheerful manner the video opened " Helloo and welcome" 👌
Have to agree with the "Best Review" comments. I own the 2023 Activity Package (non-turbo) and was curious to hear about the differences. Most reviewers are always talking about the Turbo Model. Was nice to actually learn about the differences. I'm happy after watching this that I chose the Non-Turbo.
Good review, I'm also the buyer you mention at the end. I prefer car like handling, ride quality, silence and fuel economy. But I have a need to carry a mountain bike, occasional flea market items, and lumber yard stuff. I've been looking at these since they came out. I don't need turbo power, and prefer a conventional transmission. I've been a Genesis owner for 6 years (superb trouble-free car) and want to stay within the Hyundai ecosphere. SUVs bore me and Mavericks are pretty much unavailable and super expensive. This Santa Cruz should do nicely. A car with a bed. I had the use of a new Tucson for a week recently, also superb, if the Santa Cruz is a Tuscon with a bed, it is the perfect car.
I agree with you mate. Not available in Australia yet, but I reckon there is a market for it.
Not everyone needs a " truck".
@@conradscheepers I own one and call it a "Ute". Had heard they weren't destine for Oz - to me that's sacrilege for the land that defined such a vehicle.... And yer right, I've owned many a "big truck" - this will do what near 90% of "truck owners" need , and in lower trims carry air the rest of the time for much less ;-)
At 7:42 DCT = Destruction Clutch Transmission👍
the best review! Thanks
1st time watching your review, not picking on you at all, I love your accent & english, your sense of humor and light sarcasm In poking fun & pointing out flaws. Great review, I wanted to like them more than I do, too bad they didn't think things out like you pointed out. I have to say that past Hyundai's we've owned had very well thought out amenities and some better engineerined than other big names, and didn't cost extra, but had some drivetrain flaws that made us look elsewhere after several bad experiences. I'll be watching more, thanks for the great explanations that were just enough without getting too deep & technical beyond need.
Where is thatToyota stout? Just priced a Tacoma had to see my cardiologist