Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD. This vehicle has been turning heads, and for good reason. It's not quite a truck, not quite an SUV, but something uniquely in between. If you're looking for versatility and a vehicle that stands out from the crowd, the Santa Cruz might just be your perfect match. Let's explore what makes this ride so special, focusing on its performance, interior, technology, and overall value.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD offers a balanced and capable driving experience. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for daily commutes and weekend adventures alike. Generating around 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, it's peppy enough to handle city streets and comfortable for highway cruising. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, contributing to a refined driving feel.

One of the standout features of the SEL trim is the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. This provides enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions or on slippery surfaces. Whether you're dealing with rain, snow, or light off-road trails, the AWD system gives you added confidence and control. The Santa Cruz isn't designed for hardcore off-roading, but it can certainly handle more than your average sedan.

The ride quality is another area where the Santa Cruz shines. The suspension is well-tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable and composed ride. The steering is responsive and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the Santa Cruz strikes a good balance between comfort and agility, making it a pleasure to drive in various conditions.

For those looking for more power, the Santa Cruz also offers an optional turbocharged engine. However, for many drivers, the standard engine in the SEL trim will be more than sufficient. It provides a good blend of performance and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for everyday use. Speaking of fuel efficiency, the Santa Cruz SEL AWD achieves respectable numbers for its class, helping you save money at the pump.

In summary, the performance and handling of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD are well-rounded and capable. It offers a comfortable ride, responsive steering, and the added confidence of all-wheel drive. Whether you're commuting to work or exploring the great outdoors, the Santa Cruz is ready for the challenge. It’s a versatile vehicle that’s as comfortable on city streets as it is on light off-road trails.

Interior Comfort and Design

Moving inside, the interior comfort and design of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD are impressive. Hyundai has truly stepped up their game in recent years, and the Santa Cruz is a prime example of their commitment to quality and innovation. The cabin is well-appointed with comfortable seating, intuitive controls, and a stylish design that makes you feel right at home.

The seats in the SEL trim are wrapped in durable and supportive cloth upholstery. They provide ample cushioning and support for long drives, ensuring that you and your passengers remain comfortable. The driver's seat is adjustable in multiple ways, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The rear seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom for adults, making it a comfortable space for passengers of all sizes.

The dashboard and center console are thoughtfully designed with an emphasis on ergonomics and ease of use. The controls are logically laid out and within easy reach, allowing you to adjust the climate, audio, and other settings without taking your eyes off the road. The infotainment screen is seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, providing a clean and modern look.

Storage space is also well-considered in the Santa Cruz. There are plenty of cubbies, compartments, and cupholders throughout the cabin to keep your belongings organized. The rear seats can be folded down to create a larger cargo area, allowing you to transport bulky items with ease. And of course, the truck bed in the back adds even more versatility, allowing you to haul everything from groceries to camping gear.

The overall fit and finish of the interior are excellent, with high-quality materials and attention to detail. The cabin feels solid and well-built, with no cheap plastics or flimsy components. Hyundai has clearly prioritized quality in the Santa Cruz, creating an interior that feels both luxurious and durable. The design is modern and stylish, with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic. It's a space that you'll enjoy spending time in, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip.

In conclusion, the interior comfort and design of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD are top-notch. It offers comfortable seating, intuitive controls, ample storage space, and a stylish design that makes you feel right at home. It's a space that's both functional and inviting, making it a pleasure to drive and ride in. Hyundai has truly outdone themselves with the Santa Cruz, creating an interior that rivals those of more expensive vehicles.

Technology and Features

Let's talk about the technology and features packed into the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD. Hyundai has loaded this vehicle with a range of tech goodies that enhance the driving experience and keep you connected on the go. From advanced safety features to intuitive infotainment systems, the Santa Cruz has a lot to offer in the tech department.

The centerpiece of the Santa Cruz's technology is the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This system provides access to a wide range of features, including navigation, music streaming, and smartphone integration. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to use, with intuitive menus and clear graphics. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility come standard, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps on the go.

In terms of safety, the Santa Cruz comes equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. These include features like forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These systems use sensors and cameras to monitor the road around you and alert you to potential hazards. They can also provide assistance in certain situations, such as automatically braking to avoid a collision or steering to keep you within your lane.

Other notable tech features include a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of what's behind you when backing up. This is especially helpful when parking in tight spaces or maneuvering in crowded areas. The Santa Cruz also offers available features like a wireless charging pad, which allows you to charge your smartphone without the need for cables. A premium audio system is also available, providing crystal-clear sound quality for your favorite tunes.

The Santa Cruz also boasts Hyundai's Blue Link connected car system. This system allows you to remotely control certain aspects of your vehicle from your smartphone, such as locking and unlocking the doors, starting the engine, and adjusting the climate. It also provides access to emergency services in the event of an accident or breakdown. Blue Link is a convenient and useful feature that adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

Overall, the technology and features of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD are impressive. It offers a wide range of tech goodies that enhance the driving experience, improve safety, and keep you connected on the go. From the intuitive infotainment system to the advanced driver-assistance systems, the Santa Cruz is a tech-savvy vehicle that's sure to impress. It’s a modern vehicle designed for the tech-savvy driver.

Overall Value and Conclusion

So, let's wrap things up and talk about the overall value and conclusion of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD. After spending some time with this vehicle, it's clear that Hyundai has created something truly special. The Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of versatility, comfort, and technology that sets it apart from the competition. But does it offer good value for the money?

In terms of pricing, the Santa Cruz SEL AWD falls into a competitive range for its class. It's not the cheapest vehicle on the market, but it offers a lot of features and capabilities for the price. When you consider the standard all-wheel drive, the comfortable interior, and the advanced technology, the Santa Cruz represents a solid value proposition.

One of the key factors that sets the Santa Cruz apart is its versatility. It's not quite a truck, but it offers many of the same capabilities, such as a bed for hauling cargo. It's also not quite an SUV, but it offers a comfortable and spacious interior with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The Santa Cruz is a unique blend of both, making it a great choice for those who need a vehicle that can do it all.

The Santa Cruz is also a stylish and eye-catching vehicle. Its bold and modern design is sure to turn heads wherever you go. It's a vehicle that makes a statement, and it's a great choice for those who want to stand out from the crowd. The interior is also well-designed and comfortable, with high-quality materials and attention to detail.

Of course, no vehicle is perfect, and the Santa Cruz has a few drawbacks. The base engine could use a bit more power, and the fuel economy is not the best in its class. However, these drawbacks are relatively minor, and they don't detract significantly from the overall value of the vehicle.

In conclusion, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL AWD is a well-rounded and capable vehicle that offers a lot of value for the money. It's a unique blend of versatility, comfort, and technology that sets it apart from the competition. If you're looking for a vehicle that can do it all, the Santa Cruz is definitely worth considering. It’s a vehicle that's sure to impress, and it's a great choice for those who want a vehicle that can handle anything life throws their way. So, if you are in the market, be sure to check it out, guys!