Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL, a vehicle that blurs the lines between a traditional pickup truck and a compact SUV. If you're looking for something versatile, stylish, and packed with features, the Santa Cruz SEL might just be your perfect match. Let's get into the nitty-gritty details and see what makes this ride stand out from the crowd.

Overview of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL is more than just a truck; it's a lifestyle vehicle designed for adventure and everyday practicality. The Santa Cruz carves its own path by fusing the utility of a pickup truck with the comfort and maneuverability of an SUV. The SEL trim enhances the base model with a suite of upgrades, creating a sweet spot in the lineup that balances affordability and premium features. Its distinctive design, highlighted by a bold front grille and sleek lines, ensures it turns heads wherever it goes. The Santa Cruz SEL isn't just about looks, though; it's engineered to deliver a smooth and responsive driving experience, making it equally at home on city streets and rugged trails. Whether you're hauling gear for a weekend getaway or navigating your daily commute, the Santa Cruz SEL offers the versatility and capability to handle it all with ease. The interior is thoughtfully designed, offering a comfortable and tech-savvy environment for both driver and passengers. With its blend of innovation, style, and functionality, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL redefines what a modern pickup truck can be.

Key Features and Specifications

When it comes to the key features and specifications of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL, there's a lot to get excited about. Under the hood, you'll typically find a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. This engine usually produces around 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, providing enough grunt for everyday driving and light-duty hauling. For those who crave more power, an optional turbocharged 2.5-liter engine is available, boosting the horsepower to an impressive 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. The SEL trim typically comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and seamless gear changes. It also offers available HTRAC all-wheel drive, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions. Inside the cabin, you'll find a well-equipped infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. Safety features include forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, and driver attention warning. The composite molded bed offers secure storage, complemented by lockable underfloor storage. Overall, the Santa Cruz SEL combines performance, technology, and practicality, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and capable vehicle.

Engine and Performance

Delving into the engine and performance of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL, it’s clear that Hyundai has focused on providing a driving experience that is both engaging and practical. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is a solid performer, providing ample power for daily commutes and routine tasks. Generating around 191 horsepower, it ensures the Santa Cruz SEL feels responsive and capable in various driving scenarios. The eight-speed automatic transmission complements this engine perfectly, offering smooth and timely gear shifts that enhance overall drivability. For those seeking a more thrilling experience, the optional turbocharged 2.5-liter engine is a game-changer. This powerhouse boosts the output to an impressive 281 horsepower, transforming the Santa Cruz SEL into a genuinely quick and agile vehicle. The added torque of 311 lb-ft ensures robust acceleration and confident passing power, making it ideal for highway driving and more demanding tasks. The available HTRAC all-wheel-drive system further enhances the performance, providing superior traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. Whether navigating slick city streets or tackling light off-road trails, the HTRAC system ensures the Santa Cruz SEL remains composed and in control. The suspension is tuned to strike a balance between comfort and handling, absorbing bumps and road imperfections while maintaining a stable and predictable ride. Overall, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL offers a range of engine and performance options that cater to different driving preferences and needs, making it a versatile and enjoyable vehicle to drive.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL, you're greeted with a blend of comfort and technology that enhances the overall driving experience. The interior is thoughtfully designed with quality materials and a layout that prioritizes ergonomics and ease of use. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a pleasure. The SEL trim typically includes features like heated front seats, adding an extra layer of comfort during colder months. The infotainment system is anchored by an 8-inch touchscreen display that is intuitive and responsive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration come standard, allowing seamless connectivity with your smartphone for navigation, music, and communication. The Santa Cruz SEL also includes a range of tech features designed to keep you connected and informed on the road. A rearview camera helps with parking and maneuvering in tight spaces, while features like Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports ensure you can easily connect your devices. The available Hyundai Digital Key allows you to use your smartphone as a key, adding a layer of convenience and security. The interior also offers ample storage space, with well-placed compartments and cubbies for stowing your belongings. Overall, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL's interior combines comfort, convenience, and technology to create a welcoming and functional environment for both driver and passengers.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The safety and driver-assistance features of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL are designed to provide peace of mind and enhance overall driving safety. Hyundai has equipped the Santa Cruz SEL with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies to help prevent accidents and protect occupants. Standard features typically include forward collision avoidance assist, which uses sensors to detect potential collisions and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid an impact. Lane keeping assist helps you stay centered in your lane by providing gentle steering corrections if you start to drift, while lane departure warning alerts you if you unintentionally veer out of your lane. Driver attention warning monitors your driving patterns and provides alerts if it detects signs of fatigue or distraction. The Santa Cruz SEL also includes a rearview camera, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. Available features may include blind-spot collision avoidance assist, which alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot and can even provide steering assistance to help you avoid a collision. Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist helps you back out of parking spaces safely by detecting approaching vehicles from the side. Smart cruise control with stop & go automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, and can even bring you to a complete stop and resume driving in stop-and-go traffic. With its array of safety and driver-assistance features, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL prioritizes your safety on the road.

Trim Levels and Options

Exploring the trim levels and options for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz, you'll find a range of choices to suit different preferences and needs. Starting with the base SE trim, you get a well-equipped vehicle with essential features like an 8-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a suite of standard safety technologies. Moving up to the SEL trim, you gain additional features like heated front seats, a blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert. The SEL trim also offers the option to upgrade to the more powerful turbocharged engine, providing a significant boost in performance. The Santa Cruz also offers the Night and Limited trims. Each trim level offers a unique set of features and styling elements, allowing you to customize your Santa Cruz to fit your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize affordability, performance, or luxury, there's a Santa Cruz trim that's right for you.

Pros and Cons of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL

Like any vehicle, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL has its pros and cons. On the positive side, it offers a unique blend of SUV comfort and truck utility, making it a versatile choice for various lifestyles. The standard engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, while the optional turbocharged engine delivers impressive performance. The interior is well-designed and equipped with user-friendly technology, and the available all-wheel drive enhances traction and stability. However, the Santa Cruz SEL also has some drawbacks. The bed is smaller than that of a traditional pickup truck, which may limit its utility for some buyers. The rear seat can be a bit cramped for taller passengers, and the fuel economy is not as good as some compact SUVs. Overall, the pros of the Santa Cruz SEL outweigh the cons for those seeking a versatile and stylish vehicle that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures.

Pros:

• Unique blend of SUV comfort and truck utility
• Available turbocharged engine delivers impressive performance
• Well-designed interior with user-friendly technology
• Available all-wheel drive enhances traction and stability

Cons:

• Smaller bed than a traditional pickup truck
• Rear seat can be a bit cramped for taller passengers
• Fuel economy is not as good as some compact SUVs

Final Verdict: Is the Santa Cruz SEL Right for You?

So, the big question: is the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL right for you? If you're after a vehicle that breaks the mold, offering a blend of SUV comfort and pickup truck versatility, then the Santa Cruz SEL is definitely worth considering. It's perfect for those who need the occasional utility of a truck bed but don't want the bulkiness and rough ride of a traditional pickup. The SEL trim strikes a great balance between features and price, giving you a lot of bang for your buck. However, if you need a full-size truck for heavy-duty work, the Santa Cruz SEL might not be the best fit due to its smaller bed and towing capacity. Also, if you frequently carry rear passengers, the limited rear seat space could be a concern. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you value style, versatility, and a comfortable ride, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL is a compelling option. I hope this review helped you make a decision. Happy driving, guys!