Compact pickup trucks might be a small segment of the automotive market, but it has become an incredibly popular one, as customers see just how versatile and useful these more practically-sized pickups can be. The two major contenders in this segment are the Hyundai Santa Cruz and the Ford Maverick, both of which are built to work just as well on your daily commute as they do towing your dirt bikes to the trailhead. But there are still some important differences between the two, so we need to take a closer look at how they stack up.
Hyundai Santa Cruz VS Ford Maverick
| 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE | VS | 2025 Ford Maverick XL |
| $29,500 | MSRP* | $28,145 |
| 191 HP / 181 LB-FT TQ ✓ | Horsepower / Torque | 191 HP / 155 LB-FT TQ |
| 3,500 pounds (standard) 5,000 pounds (max) ✓ | Towing Capacity | 2,000 pounds (standard) 4,000 pounds (max) |
| 8-speed automatic ✓ | Transmission | CVT |
| Optional ✓ | Side Steps | Not Available |
| Multi-link ✓ | Rear Suspension | Torsion beam |
| 18-inch ✓ | Wheels | 17-inch |
| Standard ✓ | Integrated Navigation | Optional |
| Hands-on, standard ✓ | Semi-Autonomous Capability | Not available |
| 60 months / 60,000 miles ✓ | Basic Warranty Coverage | 36 months / 36,000 miles |
From the start, we can see very similar pricing for these two models. The price difference is even less for AWD-equipped versions of these same trims, which is a popular option. The two vehicles also have the same horsepower rating, although the Santa Cruz produces more torque. This might not seem like a big deal, but it is part of the reason why the Santa Cruz offers quite a bit more towing capacity. Another important factor in this is the transmission, which is an advanced 8-speed automatic in the Santa Cruz, a robust option for towing, as well as a more engaging driving experience. And when you need something from the bed, available side steps make it easier to reach whatever it is, but there is no such option on the Maverick.
A big part of the appeal of this segment is the promise of truck functionality, but an SUV interior and driving dynamics. The Maverick has a harder time living up to this promise with its cost-cutting torsion beam rear suspension, a setup that noticeably hampers handling in comparison to the multi-link configuration on the Santa Cruz. The Maverick comes with smaller wheels, the 17-inch steel set being the only set available for the base trim, while the standard wheels on the Santa Cruz are both bigger and made from aluminum alloy. The cost-cutting on the Maverick continues with the upcharge for integrated navigation, and a total lack of the kind of semi-autonomous driver aids that come standard on the Santa Cruz. Lastly, it probably comes as no surprise that the Hyundai offers a better warranty, but it has to said that it’s quite a big difference.
Winner - Hyundai Santa Cruz
The Santa Cruz excels whether you’re looking at its truck attributes or its daily driver strengths. It doesn’t just do well in either role; it specifically does better than the Maverick. This is all the more noticeable because the two are so similarly priced, and you can see plainly how much further your money goes with the Santa Cruz. Some of this can be expressed in numbers, like power output and towing capacity, but some of it you need to experience in person, and that’s where Crestmont Hyundai can help. Let us help you find your Santa Cruz.
*MSRP excludes freight charges, tax, title, and license fees. Freight charges and actual dealer prices may vary. Vehicles displayed may contain optional equipment at additional cost. Accessory items shown may vary according to model and illustration.
