2025 Ford Maverick vs. 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
The 2025 Ford Maverick vs. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
If you’re in the market for a compact truck that blends utility with everyday practicality, the 2025 Ford Maverick and 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz are likely to be at the top of your list. These small pickups are redefining what a truck can be, offering the functionality of a pickup with the drivability and efficiency of an SUV. Whether you’re navigating city streets, tackling weekend projects, or looking for a versatile daily driver, both trucks bring a lot to the table. But which one stands out as the better all-around choice? Let’s take a closer look to help you decide whether the Maverick or the Santa Cruz is right for you.
Performance
The 2025 Ford Maverick continues to lead the segment with a standard 2.5-liter hybrid engine, delivering an excellent balance of performance and fuel economy—something no other truck in its class can match. For those who want more muscle, the available 2.0-liter EcoBoost® engine boosts horsepower and torque for added towing and hauling capability. One of the most exciting changes for 2025 is the introduction of all-wheel drive on the hybrid model, offering improved traction for slick roads or off-pavement adventures without compromising fuel efficiency.
By contrast, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, and offers an available turbocharged upgrade for quicker acceleration. While this gives it a performance edge on paper, its heavier weight offsets some of that advantage in real-world driving. When it comes to efficient capability, the Maverick’s hybrid system makes it the standout pick for drivers who want to do more with less.
Comfort
Inside the cabin, the Maverick prioritizes smart functionality. It offers generous space for a compact pickup and a practical layout that puts everything within easy reach. The updated 13.2-inch SYNC® 4 infotainment system, now standard for 2025, includes wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ for seamless connectivity. Ford’s clever storage options—like under-seat compartments and customizable FITS™ system slots—add extra versatility for gear, tools, or groceries.
The Santa Cruz focuses more on refinement than practicality. Upper trims feature a 10.25-inch digital cluster and touchscreen, with available leather upholstery and a sleeker, more upscale feel. However, while it looks and feels more premium, it lacks some of the everyday functionality that Maverick owners enjoy.
Safety
Both trucks deliver solid safety suites, but the Maverick holds a slight advantage. Ford Co-Pilot360™ comes standard, offering driver-assist technologies like Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, a Lane-Keeping System, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. These features are seamlessly integrated and geared toward truck users.
The Santa Cruz also includes advanced safety tech, such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, with higher trims adding features like a Blind-Spot View Monitor. Still, the Maverick’s safety package feels more comprehensive and better tailored to utility-minded drivers.
While both the 2025 Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz deliver strong performances in the compact truck segment, the Maverick pulls ahead as the smarter, more capable, and more cost-effective option.Want to learn more or take a test drive? Contact us today and experience the Maverick difference for yourself.