Hyundai Santa Cruz Sport Adventure Vehicle is not coming to South Africa

The recently-unveiled Hyundai Santa Cruz Sport Adventure Vehicle will not be coming to South Africa, according to Hyundai.

Hyundai USA unveiled the Santa Cruz for its local market, and it immediately gained attention from local bakkie fans.

Stylish looks and off-roading capabilities have been elegantly mated in what would be classified as a mid-size pickup in the US market.

The Santa Cruz is a mid-size bakkie that is built on the Hyundai Tucson platform, and according to Hyundai it is about the same size as a Ford Ranger or Toyota Hilux.

It has a modern front fascia that draws inspiration from the company’s SUVs, and high hips that curve around the load box.

“The 2022 Santa Cruz breaks new ground within the SUV, truck, and crossover segments by offering a true Sport Adventure Vehicle unlike anything else in the US market,” said Hyundai USA.

High-end interior

The interior boasts “a technical ambience that appeals to those who appreciate cutting-edge technologies”, said Hyundai.

It features a dual-cockpit design, a 10-inch infotainment display, a Bose sound system, and an in-cabin storage area below the rear seats.

In terms of power, it is fitted with a 2.5-litre, in-line four-cylinder engine that generates an estimated 141kW and 244Nm, and couples to an 8-speed hydraulic automatic transmission.

A second 2.5-litre engine option with a turbo is also available, and this specification produces 205kW and 420Nm.

The turbocharged variant is fitted with an 8-speed DCT gearbox, which includes paddle shifters for manual control by the driver.

Power is sent to all four wheels in both variants, and a maximum towing capacity of 1,588kg and 2,268kg is available, respectively.

The Hyundai Santa Cruz measures in at 4,971mm long, 1,905mm wide, 1,694mm tall – and weighs in at an estimated kerb weight of 1,905kg.

Hyundai Santa Cruz Sport Adventure Vehicle – Photos