Hyundai first announced its intention to join the pickup truck segment back in 2015 when it introduced the Santa Cruz concept. The Korean car brand launched the concept version of its first-ever pickup truck at the 2015 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.
Hyundai Santa Cruz concept
The Santa Cruz concept relatively caught the attention of the automotive industry. Aside from being Hyundai’s first pickup truck model, the Santa Cruz was named the 2015 Concept Truck of the Year at the 14th North American Concept Vehicle of the Year (NACVOTY) Awards.
Since then, there were reports that Hyundai will push through with the production of the Santa Cruz concept. But the production version of Hyundai’s pickup truck was delayed as the car brand encountered hurdles in finding a facility that will build the Santa Cruz.
Six years later, Hyundai is all set to end the waiting game as it announced that the Santa Cruz will make its global debut on April 15, 2021. The automaker released teaser images of its upcoming pickup truck, and it looks promising.
That grille looks familiar
The front end of the 2022 Santa Cruz shares similarities with the all-new Hyundai Tucson. The grille design that is shown in one of the teaser images looks strikingly the same as the Tucson. The teaser also suggests that the Hyundai Santa Cruz will come with an angular bumper as well as prominent fender flares.
Sleek and sharp
Turning at the side, the Santa Cruz is integrated with crisp character lines that give the vehicle a striking appeal. You can also see a modern-looking wheel design, which adds style points and a sporty vibe to the Santa Cruz’s side. Of note, the production version will come with a four-door setup, which is different from the two-door design that was previously shown in the concept version.
Look at that taillights
The rear gets a hammer-like taillight design along with a bold Santa Cruz text on the tailgate. The teaser also shows that the pickup truck features a shark-fin antenna and roof rails. Aside from the exterior teaser images, Hyundai has yet to share information in regards to the Santa Cruz’s interior and powertrain details.
The Korean automaker did say that the Santa Cruz will feature “cutting-edge connectivity and a highly maneuverable all-wheel-drive platform.” Hyundai Motor North America president and CEO Jose Munoz added that the Santa Cruz will have “powerful and efficient engines.” Munoz goes on by saying that the pickup truck will be “a pleasure to drive in urban or off-road environments.” The Santa Cruz will be produced in Montgomery, Alabama.
Previous reports state that the Hyundai Santa Cruz will be sharing a lot of characteristics with the Tucson. With that, the Santa Cruz could be powered by the same engine options offered on the Tucson, which includes a 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine.
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