Recently, Carscoops magazine’s photographers have spotted a prototype of the Hyundai Santa Cruz facelift in the US. Despite being heavily camouflaged, the revealed details show that this vehicle has been adjusted to have a more pickup-like design.
Although it is believed to be based on the design of the Hyundai Tucson, the facelifted Santa Cruz features redesigned headlights that are narrower and located lower, instead of the previous V-shaped arrangement expanding upward.
The front grille is now larger and more square-shaped. Hyundai’s Parametric Dynamics design language is still evident in the meticulously arranged large elements, creating a bold and aggressive front fascia.
Comparison of the front face of the 2024 Hyundai Tucson and the 2025 Santa Cruz prototype.
The front bumper has also been upgraded, combined with faux underbody protection details. All of these adjustments contribute to giving the car a more rugged and pickup-like appearance rather than a crossover.
Meanwhile, the side and rear of the vehicle have remained largely unchanged. However, the truck is expected to receive a set of new wheels with a more impressive design. In addition, there is information that the Santa Cruz will be offered in two new paint colors: Fine Green Matte and Ultimate Red metallic.
Sketch design of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz by Carscoops.
Inside the cabin, the interior of the Santa Cruz pickup will be similar to that of the new Tucson. It includes a digital instrument cluster and an infotainment system with a 12.3-inch curved screen. This system supports wireless software updates and Hyundai’s BlueLink online services.
Other upgrades will include a new gear shifter design located behind the steering wheel. The air vents have been moved below the dashboard instead of being located above it. The center control cluster has also been redesigned, featuring a wireless phone charging pad and two cup holders. The interior color palette is said to include three new colors: green, black, and gray.
In terms of technology, the new Santa Cruz is expected to be equipped with features such as smart cruise control, a head-up display (HUD), wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital key, and a fingerprint scanner. The vehicle is also expected to be equipped with Hyundai’s most advanced SmartSense safety features.
It is currently unclear whether Hyundai will upgrade the engine for the 2025 Santa Cruz. The current powertrain options for the current Santa Cruz include a 2.5L, 4-cylinder gasoline engine with 191 horsepower combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission for the standard version.
The higher-end model uses a turbocharged 2.5L engine with 281 horsepower combined with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters. All-wheel drive is standard, while the rear suspension is independent.
