South Korean automaker Hyundai is all-set to launch its first-ever pickup truck, the 2022 Santa Cruz in the markets. The truck famed for its exceptional maneuverability owing to shorter and lower built can be used for off roading in the midst of a rugged terrain as well as for daily commutes, occasionally involving towing and transporting goods. The unibody truck is however unable to fare well against its competitors, Jeep Gladiator and Toyota Tacoma, when it comes to matching towing capacity.
While the production begins next month in Montgomery, Alabama, the vehicle will be available to customers in Summer.
The 2022 Santa Cruz pickup truck will be offered in four trim levels including (From L to R, increasing specs and prices) SE, SEL, SEL Premium and Limited.
The higher end variants will come packed with more powerful engine, and exquisite features like dual-zone climate control and a leather covered steering wheel, shift knob an auto dimming rearview mirror for added comfort and luxury.
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Engine and performance
Hyundai Santa Cruz 2022 model will come in two powertrain options; a 2.5-liter four-cylinder variant with 190 horsepower and 180-pound feet torque and a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder variant having 275 horse power and 310-pound feet torque. Both the trim levels come with the power and comfort of an all-wheel drive.
While the top variant with its power engine, will be able to tow at least 5000 pounds, the standard 2.5-liter trim level has the capacity to tow just over 3500 pounds.
Hyundai is planning to launch the vehicle in six exterior colors which include Ice White, Phantom Black, Hampton Grey, Sage Gray, Blue Stone, and Desert Sand.
Interior
In stark contrast to other mid-size pickups, Hyundai Santa Cruz comes with an exquisitely designed cabin giving a luxurious look, especially with its fully digital gauge cluster, traditional center console mounted shifter and an 8.0 inches infotainment system. The higher end trim levels offer 10.0-inch display. Hyundai has offered all the latest connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
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Safety features
Hyundai Santa Cruz comes equipped with state-of-the-art safety and driver assistance features including optional adaptive cruise control for added comfort during long distance travelling, driver-attention warning, standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert.
Price and availability
According to GVS’s estimates, Hyundai Santa Cruz will carry an introductory price of $ 25,000 for SE variant and go up to $35,000 for the top trim level called ‘Limited’. The mid-range SEL and SEL Premium models will cost $27,000 and $30,000 respectively.
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The vehicle will hit automobile markets in the U.S. this Summer.