The Hyundai Santa Cruz 2.5 GDI MPI with 191 horsepower and HTRAC all-wheel drive, paired with an automatic transmission, represents a significant entry point into the burgeoning Sport Adventure Vehicle (SAV) segment. Introduced for the 2022 model year (production began in June 2021), this variant occupied the mid-range position within the first generation (2022-2024) Santa Cruz lineup, slotting below the more powerful turbocharged 2.5-liter option. Hyundai aimed to provide a versatile and efficient vehicle appealing to buyers seeking a compact pickup with car-like comfort and modern features. The Santa Cruz, as a whole, was a novel offering for Hyundai in the US market, attempting to carve out a niche between traditional body-on-frame trucks and smaller crossover SUVs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Santa Cruz |
| Generation | Santa Cruz (First Generation) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 GDI MPI (191 Hp) HTRAC AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | June, 2021 |
| End of production | March, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | ULEV |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 138.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 191 Hp @ 6100 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 4000 rpm (180.7 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Smartstream / G4KN |
| Engine displacement | 2497 cm3 (152.38 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88.5 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 101.5 mm (4 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 13:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.46 l (10 US qt | 8.32 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1774-1782 kg (3911 – 3928.64 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2545 kg (5610.76 lbs.) |
| Max load | 763-771 kg (1682.13 – 1699.76 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 765 l (27.02 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67 l (17.7 US gal | 14.74 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4971 mm (195.71 in.) |
| Width | 1905 mm (75 in.) |
| Height | 1694 mm (66.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3005 mm (118.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1643 mm (64.69 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1648 mm (64.88 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218 mm (8.58 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.37 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.1 m (39.7 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17.5° |
| Departure angle | 23.2° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 18.6° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels permanently, and the rear wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 325×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 325×12 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/60 R18; 245/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Santa Cruz variant is Hyundai’s Smartstream 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder engine, designated G4KN. This engine utilizes a combination of direct injection (GDI) and multi-port fuel injection (MPI) to optimize combustion efficiency and reduce emissions. The GDI system injects fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved power and efficiency, while the MPI system supplements it during lower engine speeds for smoother operation. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) on both intake and exhaust valves, further enhancing efficiency and responsiveness. The 8-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Hyundai’s own development, is tuned for smooth shifts and efficient operation. It’s a traditional torque-converter automatic, prioritizing comfort over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 191-horsepower, 245 Nm (180.7 lb-ft) output of this engine, coupled with the 8-speed automatic, delivers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is best described as leisurely, with a 0-60 mph time estimated around 9-10 seconds. The automatic transmission is programmed for fuel economy, often upshifting quickly to maintain lower engine speeds. This can result in some hesitation during overtaking maneuvers or when climbing hills. Compared to the turbocharged 2.5-liter version, this naturally aspirated engine feels noticeably less powerful, particularly at higher RPMs. However, the linear power delivery and smooth automatic transmission make it a comfortable and predictable daily driver. The HTRAC all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in inclement weather, adding to the vehicle’s versatility.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5-liter Santa Cruz typically came standard with features like an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a suite of safety features including forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, and driver attention warning, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the SEL and Limited, added features like a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, leather upholstery, a premium sound system, and additional driver-assistance technologies. Optional extras included a sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and a bed cover.
Chassis & Braking
The Santa Cruz utilizes a unibody construction, contributing to its car-like ride quality. The front suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup, while the rear features an independent multi-link suspension. This configuration provides a comfortable and controlled ride, even on rough roads. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. The base models typically featured smaller brake rotors compared to the turbocharged variants.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Santa Cruz for its unique design, comfortable ride, and versatile functionality. However, the 2.5-liter engine was often criticized for feeling underpowered, especially when compared to the turbocharged option. Fuel economy was considered respectable, but not class-leading. Compared to traditional body-on-frame pickups like the Ford Ranger or Toyota Tacoma, the Santa Cruz offered a more refined and comfortable driving experience, but lacked the same level of towing and off-road capability. Against smaller crossovers, it provided more utility with its open bed, but sacrificed some interior space.
Legacy
The Hyundai Santa Cruz 2.5 GDI MPI HTRAC AWD Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. The Smartstream engine, while not known for exceptional performance, is generally considered durable and maintenance costs are reasonable. On the used car market, these models represent a good value for buyers seeking a versatile and affordable compact pickup. The combination of all-wheel drive, a comfortable ride, and a decent feature set makes it an attractive option for those who don’t require heavy-duty towing or off-road capabilities. As with any used vehicle, a thorough inspection and maintenance history review are recommended before purchase.
