2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Revealed: Bold Design And Advanced Tech At New York Auto Show

At the New York International Auto Show, Hyundai introduced the updated 2025 Santa Cruz Sport Adventure Vehicle, showcasing a series of enhancements aimed at elevating the driving experience. The vehicle now sports a more aggressive look with a redesigned front and a wider stance. A significant upgrade is the panoramic curved display that merges the driver information cluster with the infotainment system, offering seamless access to vehicle diagnostics and entertainment options. This model year also marks the introduction of standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, alongside advanced safety technologies and specific improvements to the rugged XRT model.

Brad Arnold, Hyundai Design North America's senior design manager of exteriors, highlighted the aesthetic advancements of the Santa Cruz during its unveiling. The vehicle's exterior now features increased vertical lines, a larger grille, and redesigned headlamps for a bolder appearance. The XRT trim benefits from exclusive 18-inch wheels, new bumper fascia designs, and an enhanced approach angle for better off-road capability. Inside, the Santa Cruz boasts a high-tech ambiance with upgraded controls, additional storage options, and a new panoramic curved display enhancing functionality and driver interaction.

The 2025 Santa Cruz is powered by a 2.5L direct-injected turbocharged engine delivering 281 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque. This powertrain is coupled with an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission and features HTRAC® all-wheel drive, ensuring robust performance across various driving conditions. With a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs., the Santa Cruz is equipped to handle demanding tasks effortlessly.

Advanced Features for Enhanced Driving Experience

New infotainment and convenience technologies have been integrated into the Santa Cruz, including over-the-air software update support, USB-Type-C ports, Bluelink Integrated Memory System, digital key, and a fingerprint scanner. The vehicle also introduces a new towing drive mode and incorporates advanced safety technologies like Forward Attention Warning (FAW), setting new standards in vehicle safety and user convenience.

Hyundai's Commitment to Innovation

José Muñoz, president and Global COO of Hyundai Motor Company, along with Olabisi Boyle, senior vice president of product planning and mobility strategy for Hyundai Motor North America, emphasized the refreshed Santa Cruz's role in Hyundai's product lineup. They noted how these enhancements are designed to surpass customer expectations through innovative features and improved performance capabilities.

The 2025 Santa Cruz represents Hyundai's ongoing commitment to innovation, offering consumers an advanced Sport Adventure Vehicle that combines style, technology, and functionality. Scheduled for release in fall at Hyundai dealerships, this model is set to redefine expectations for adventure vehicles. Hyundai Auto Canada's recognition as one of the Top 50 Best Workplaces™ in Canada underscores the company's dedication to excellence not only in its products but also in its corporate culture.