The compact truck segment is heating up, with the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz and 2024 Toyota Tacoma standing out as top contenders. While both offer impressive features, they cater to different audiences. The Santa Cruz is a versatile, city-friendly pickup with SUV-like comfort, whereas the Tacoma continues its legacy as an off-road-ready midsize truck with robust performance. In this detailed comparison, we’ll break down their specs, capabilities, interior, technology, safety, and pricing to help you choose the right truck for your needs.
Performance & Engine Options
2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
- Base Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder, 191 hp, 181 lb-ft torque
- Optional Engine: 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder, 281 hp, 311 lb-ft torque
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic or dual-clutch (turbo model)
- Drivetrain: FWD standard, AWD available
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs (turbo model)
- Fuel Economy: Estimated 21/26 mpg (city/highway) for the base engine
2024 Toyota Tacoma
- Base Engine: 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder, 228 hp, 243 lb-ft torque
- Optional Engine: 2.4L turbocharged hybrid, up to 326 hp, 465 lb-ft torque
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: RWD standard, 4WD optional
- Towing Capacity: Up to 6,500 lbs
- Fuel Economy: Estimated 20/27 mpg (city/highway) for base engine.
Winner
The Tacoma has more power and towing capacity, but the Santa Cruz focuses on a smooth driving experience with a robust turbocharged option.
Interior & Comfort
The Santa Cruz also boasts a car-like, modern interior with a digital instrument screen, upscale trim, and much space for passengers. It is easier to commute daily, with soft seats and a quiet interior.
The Tacoma retains a tough truck character, with rugged materials, an optional 14-inch screen, and a higher seating position. Though it has more off-road-oriented trims, the interior might not be as polished as the Santa Cruz.
Winner
The Santa Cruz has a more comfortable, tech-rich cabin, but the Tacoma’s interior is designed for adrenaline junkies.
Technology & Infotainment
2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
- Standard Display: 8-inch touchscreen
- Optional Display: 10.25-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Standard
- Premium Sound System: Available Bose audio
- Features: Wireless charging, digital key, navigation
2024 Toyota Tacoma
- Standard Display: 8-inch touchscreen
- Optional Display: 14-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Standard (wireless)
- Premium Sound System: Available JBL audio
- Features: Over-the-air updates, off-road cameras, head-up display
Winner
The Tacoma takes the win with a bigger touchscreen and off-road tech, but the Santa Cruz holds its own with a balanced infotainment system.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Both trucks feature advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Tacoma, however, adds Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0, which provides extra off-road driver assistance, while the Santa Cruz prioritizes city and highway safety.Winner: The Tacoma offers more off-road-oriented safety features, which make it a better option for thrill-seekers.
Pricing & Value
- 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz: Begins at around $27,000
- 2024 Toyota Tacoma: Begins at around $30,000
The Santa Cruz is cheaper and offers greater value for a city-friendly, utility truck. But the Tacoma earns its premium with tough capabilities and improved towing capacity.
Winner
If budget is an issue, the Santa Cruz is a good value, but the Tacoma is worth the additional expense for more power and capability.
Conclusion
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz and 2024 Toyota Tacoma cater to different audiences. The Santa Cruz is perfect for those seeking a practical, comfortable, and tech-friendly truck for daily use, with light towing and adventure capabilities. On the other hand, the Tacoma excels in ruggedness, off-road performance, and towing capacity, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and heavy-duty use.Ultimately, your choice depends on your priorities—comfort and versatility (Santa Cruz) or rugged capability and power (Tacoma). Either way, both trucks stand out in their respective categories, offering impressive features for modern drivers.
FAQs
Which truck is best for everyday driving?
The Santa Cruz is more suitable for everyday driving because of its smooth ride, car-like handling, and comfortable interior.
Is the Santa Cruz suitable for off-road escapades?
Although it does have AWD and adequate ground clearance, the Tacoma is much better for serious off-road escapades.
What truck offers the superior infotainment system?
The Tacoma gets the point for a 14-inch display screen, but the Santa Cruz comes with a sensible system plus upgrades.
How do towing capacities vary?
The Tacoma is capable of 6,500 lbs., but the Santa Cruz tops off at 5,000 lbs.
What truck consumes more fuel?
The Santa Cruz has improved mileage in town use, yet they are well matched.
