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There are few gas-powered vehicles Id consider buying and the Hyundai Santa Cruz is one of them.
In fact, there are none at all.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
Thats terrible, but understandable given how pickup trucks arent best known for their efficiency.
However, it hits the car makers claim of 22 mpg combined fuel economy.
In one of my long-distance driving tests mostly on the highway, it got a better 28.1 mpg economy.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
Thankfully it features a large 17.7-gallon fuel tank, which could mitigate frequent fill ups.
On the front, its pretty aggressive with its sprawling grille and stacked LED headlights.
From a profile view, this creates a sporty silhouette that I love about the Santa Cruz.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
Hidden flatbed storage
Pickup trucks are full of surprises and the Santa Cruz is no exception.
Thats why I appreciate the hidden storage compartments underneath the back seats.
I think theyre more convenient than storing stuff in the flatbed, where they will most likely get jostled.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
Plus, I love how this area glows at night thanks to the ambient lighting.
However, it wouldnt hurt to have another trim with a more efficient engine.
I would gladly sacrifice the power for fewer fill ups because it adds up.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
Thats a huge amount of savings and proves exactly why Id love to see more compact electric pickups.
Since its classified as a compact pickup truck, its a bit tight with the legroom in the back.
It would be perfect for what I want, if not for its poor fuel economy.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide / John Velasco)
