As a junior, the Hyundai Santa Cruz lacks the off-road prowess that Ford gave the Maverick. And for some people, that can be a little frustrating. Because who doesn’t love an off-road truck? But, with Hyundai, it has a chance to offer something really exciting. And that’s a legitimate performance mini pickup, the Hyundai Santa Cruz N.
Will there be a Santa Cruz Inn?
As a sporty minivan, the Santa Cruz N is likely to be popular, but it’s unclear if Hyundai intends to build one. The brand isn’t shy about giving various vehicles the performance treatment. 2023 produces 286 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque.
It shares its platform with its N-Line trim. But it doesn’t add much in terms of performance. Hopefully if Hyundai makes a Santa Cruz N, it will change enough to make buying one actually worth it.
Truck owners enjoy high performance
If you take a look at the current pickup truck segment, there are quite a few sport utility trucks. Ford has the Raptor, and now Ram has the TRX. And even though these shows are pricey, people are actually buying them.
A performance minivan will probably be cheaper, and more budget-friendly. Plus, Hyundai is creating legacy with its N vehicles. If the brand is willing to make sportier SUVs, it makes sense that Santa Cruz would get the same treatment.
According to , there has been no confirmation by Hyundai leadership about the Santa Cruz N. But it sure would be cool if this Korean automaker discovered a performance truck.
How much will the Hyundai Santa Cruz N cost?
The 2023 Santa Cruz Limited has an MSRP of $40,320, so the Santa Cruz N will likely fall around that price. The Limited is the upper portion, and N pieces are likely to be placed above or below it. If Hyundai decides it wants to make one.
In terms of powertrain, most Hyundai N models come with a turbocharged engine. The 2.5-liter turbo engine available in the current Santa Cruz produces 281 horsepower. That’s a pretty solid number for a car of this size.
Maybe it comes with a little more power. But there are N cars in Hyundai’s lineup that simply get visual changes, without an increase in power.
