Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD. This vehicle is making waves, and for good reason. It uniquely blends the practicality of a pickup truck with the comfort and agility of an SUV. So, if you're on the hunt for something that can handle both your daily commute and weekend adventures, stick around. We're going to cover everything from its performance and features to its interior and overall driving experience. Let's get started!

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD doesn't disappoint. Under the hood, you'll typically find a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a solid balance of power and efficiency. This engine usually produces around 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, which is more than adequate for most driving situations. The Santa Cruz also offers an available 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine for those craving extra power, boosting output to an impressive 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This upgrade transforms the Santa Cruz into a seriously quick and capable machine, perfect for towing or tackling challenging terrain. The All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system is a standout feature, providing enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. Whether navigating slick city streets or venturing off the beaten path, the AWD ensures confident handling and control. The Santa Cruz SEL AWD also boasts a smooth and responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. This transmission seamlessly shifts gears, optimizing both performance and fuel economy. The suspension system is finely tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback and making the Santa Cruz feel nimble and easy to maneuver. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD strike a great balance between practicality, comfort, and capability, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, power, or all-weather performance, the Santa Cruz has something to offer. The combination of its capable engine, smooth transmission, and advanced AWD system makes it a joy to drive in various conditions. The Santa Cruz is designed to handle everything from daily commutes to weekend getaways with confidence and ease, making it a standout option in its class. With its blend of truck-like utility and SUV-like comfort, the Santa Cruz is well-suited for those who need a vehicle that can do it all.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Let's step inside the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD and explore the interior comfort and technology features. Hyundai has truly stepped up its game, and it shows in the design and functionality of this cabin. The first thing you'll notice is the modern and well-organized layout. The dashboard is clean and intuitive, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The materials used throughout the cabin feel high-quality, with soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics that give a premium feel. Seating comfort is a major highlight. The front seats are supportive and well-cushioned, making long drives a breeze. The SEL trim typically includes cloth upholstery, which is both comfortable and durable. Higher trims offer leather upholstery and additional features like heated and ventilated seats for added luxury. The rear seats provide ample space for passengers, with enough legroom and headroom to keep everyone comfortable. The rear seats also fold down, expanding the cargo-carrying capacity of the bed, which is a huge plus for hauling larger items. The technology in the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD is impressive. An 8-inch touchscreen display is standard, offering access to essential features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The system is responsive and easy to use, with clear graphics and intuitive menus. Upgraded trims often include a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen with additional features like navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a premium Bose audio system. The digital instrument cluster provides essential vehicle information in a clear and customizable format. You can easily monitor your speed, fuel economy, and other important data at a glance. The Santa Cruz also comes standard with a range of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The interior of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD is designed with both comfort and convenience in mind. Features like automatic climate control, keyless entry, and push-button start add to the overall ease of use. The cabin is also well-insulated, minimizing road noise and creating a quiet and relaxing environment. With its blend of high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and advanced technology, the Santa Cruz offers a premium driving experience that rivals many SUVs. The attention to detail and thoughtful design make it a standout in its class.

Exterior Design and Utility

Now, let's talk about the exterior design and utility of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD. This vehicle stands out with its bold and distinctive styling, blending the lines of a pickup truck and an SUV into a unique and eye-catching package. The front of the Santa Cruz features a striking grille design that integrates seamlessly with the headlights, creating a modern and aggressive look. The sculpted hood and sharp lines add to its athletic stance, making it clear that this is not your average pickup. The side profile showcases the Santa Cruz's distinctive silhouette, with a sleek roofline and a relatively short bed. The overall proportions are well-balanced, giving it a sporty and agile appearance. The rear of the vehicle features distinctive taillights and a sculpted tailgate, further enhancing its modern design. The integrated bumper and dual exhaust outlets add a touch of sophistication. The utility of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD is where it truly shines. The open bed offers a versatile space for hauling cargo, whether it's groceries, camping gear, or home improvement supplies. The bed is equipped with a durable bed liner, protecting it from scratches and dents. It also features integrated tie-down points, allowing you to secure your cargo safely. One of the standout features of the Santa Cruz is its lockable under-bed storage compartment. This provides a secure and weatherproof space for storing valuable items, keeping them out of sight and protected from the elements. The tailgate is easy to operate and can be opened with one hand, making loading and unloading cargo a breeze. The Santa Cruz also offers a range of accessories to enhance its utility, including bed dividers, tonneau covers, and bed extenders. These accessories allow you to customize the bed to suit your specific needs. The exterior design of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD is not just about looks; it's also about functionality. The aerodynamic shape helps to improve fuel efficiency, while the high ground clearance allows you to tackle rough terrain with confidence. The available roof rails provide additional cargo-carrying capacity, making it easy to transport larger items like kayaks or bicycles. With its combination of bold styling, versatile bed, and practical features, the Santa Cruz is a vehicle that looks as good as it performs. It's a perfect choice for those who want the utility of a pickup truck without sacrificing the comfort and style of an SUV. The Santa Cruz is designed to handle both everyday tasks and weekend adventures with ease, making it a truly versatile vehicle.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount, and the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD comes packed with features to keep you and your passengers secure. Hyundai has integrated a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies into this vehicle, earning it high marks in crash tests and safety ratings. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), which prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking, helping you maintain control of the vehicle. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) helps to prevent skidding by automatically applying the brakes to individual wheels when it detects a loss of traction. Traction Control System (TCS) limits wheelspin during acceleration, improving grip and stability, especially on slippery surfaces. The Santa Cruz also comes equipped with a suite of airbags, including front airbags, side-impact airbags, and side curtain airbags, providing comprehensive protection in the event of a collision. Beyond these standard features, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD offers a range of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that enhance safety and help to prevent accidents. Forward Collision Warning (FCW) uses sensors to detect potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians ahead. If a collision is imminent, the system provides an audible and visual warning, giving you time to react. Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) goes a step further by automatically applying the brakes if you don't respond to the FCW warning in time, helping to mitigate or avoid a collision. Lane Departure Warning (LDW) alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane without signaling. Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) can gently steer the vehicle back into the center of the lane if you don't respond to the LDW warning. Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) alerts you to the presence of vehicles in your blind spots, helping to prevent lane-change accidents. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space or driveway. These advanced safety features work together to create a safer driving environment, helping to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD has undergone rigorous crash testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), earning top marks for its overall safety performance. With its comprehensive suite of safety features and its strong performance in crash tests, the Santa Cruz provides peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike. Hyundai's commitment to safety is evident in every aspect of the vehicle's design and engineering, making it a standout choice in its class.

Final Verdict

Alright, guys, let's wrap things up. The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a vehicle that blends the best of both worlds: the utility of a pickup truck and the comfort of an SUV. Its unique design, versatile bed, and advanced features make it stand out in a crowded market. Whether you're hauling cargo, commuting to work, or heading out for a weekend adventure, the Santa Cruz is up to the task. The performance is solid, the interior is comfortable and tech-filled, and the safety features provide peace of mind. Sure, it might not be a full-size truck, but that's not the point. The Santa Cruz offers a different kind of versatility, one that's perfectly suited for those who need a little bit of everything. So, if you're in the market for something different, definitely give the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD a look. You might be surprised at just how much you like it! What do you guys think? Let me know in the comments below!