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2024 New York Auto Show to Feature Revamped Small Pickup Truck

Next week marks the start of the highly anticipated 2024 New York Auto Show, where Hyundai is set to unveil something exciting. Alongside the recently revamped Tucson, the 2025 Santa Cruz will make its global debut, boasting a refreshed appearance and “enhanced capability.”

Hyundai has released a brief statement regarding its participation in the major event, known as the Big Apple’s big show. While details about its features are still undisclosed, the company’s announcement highlights enhancements to the interior, including improved ergonomics and a fresh infotainment system. On the exterior, the Santa Cruz will receive modifications to its design, leaning more towards a rugged aesthetic rather than a street-truck persona. In addition to these changes, there will also be an increase in the number of standard driver-assist systems.

Hyundai has revealed two sneak peeks of their upcoming new pickup truck. The first image, displayed at the start of this article, displays the truck from the rear. It showcases a redesigned rear fascia with enlarged corner cutouts and trim that extends higher up along the sides. While the sketch gives the impression of a wider stance, it is important to note that the proportions may be exaggerated as it is only a preliminary drawing.

Another photo (shown above) displays a detailed shot of the updated Santa Cruz grille. We can observe that the previous blade patterns have been replaced with rectangular openings. This design bears resemblance to the refreshed Tucson, which aligns the models with Hyundai’s present design aesthetic.

It should be mentioned that Hyundai has specifically distinguished the two teaser images for the 2025 Santa Cruz as belonging to the tough and rugged XRT model. Unveiled back in July, the XRT variant features striking plastic fender flares, side steps, door trim, and a sleek blackout design on the truck. The mechanical components of the XRT remain unchanged, with a powerful 281-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox that powers all four wheels.

Is it possible that Hyundai’s reference to additional capability could suggest that the upcoming XRT model will receive significant off-road enhancements? The success of the Ford Maverick, the sole rival of the Santa Cruz in the compact truck category, is no secret. The Maverick boasts a conventional truck design and offers an FX4 package with practical features such as skid plates and all-terrain tires. It would make sense for Hyundai to follow suit and equip the Santa Cruz XRT with similar upgrades. However, we will have to wait until the New York reveal to confirm this.

On March 27th, a significant event will take place. We will provide comprehensive information regarding the latest Santa Cruz model and other notable releases at the 2024 New York Auto Show on Motor1.

Source: Hyundai