It’s been a long time since Hyundai presented its truck concept. But, the production is closer and the vehicle might debut as soon as the situation with the virus pandemic calms down. We believe in the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz since another Korean company announced the development of the pickup truck. Kia Telluride truck is a hot rumor. Hyundai has the new mid-size SUV, Palisade, and it can also offer some solutions for the upcoming Santa Cruz.
For example, there is a strong belief that bosses in Hyundai changed their minds about the drivetrain for the truck. A 3.8-liter Lambda V6 is a source of power for the SUV and we believe the same unit will be under the hood of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz. Well, a few modifications should make it more competitive.
2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Specs
A V6 is definitely something the 2022 Santa Cruz needs to fight the competition. But, the entry-level models will use a four-cylinder powertrain. This is still the base option, not too popular among truckers. However, it decreases the price. A 2.4-liter unit we find on the Tucson is probably the one to take the position in the Santa Cruz as well. With 185 horsepower, it is at the same level as most of the rivals.
The real deal comes with the V6 unit. For the Palisade, the engine is producing 290 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. This should be good for at least 6,500 pounds of towing capacity. But, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz will need at least 7,000 lbs to be competitive. An eight-speed automatic transmission is there to transfer power to front wheels, and experts believe Hyundai will keep this setup. All-wheel drive is optional and the carmaker offers a few different drive modes, which will keep the ride balanced in different situations.
Off-Road Packages and Diesel Engine
Hyundai Palisade also uses a 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine outside the US. The company might consider bringing it over to North America to enhance the outputs of the upcoming truck. Well, Jeep Gladiator and Chevy Colorado are already available with oil-burners, and the Ford Ranger might use its diesel configuration as well. With 195 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque, this one would definitely be a strong competitor. It will be able to tow at least 7,000 lbs.
The carmaker will try to enhance the off-road ride with special packages. Well, we still didn’t get used to this, but now, with large vehicles in the market, such upgrades are required. The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz will stand against Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro and Chevrolet Colorado ZR2. It is not an easy task to offer something better to buyers, but we will leave Hyundai to give it a shot.
2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Release Date and Price
The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz will cost below the competition. The base MSRP will probably start around $25,000 for the vehicle with V6. A four-pot mill comes with a discount. The production is about to start next summer and we are waiting for the official announcement of all details.