In 2021, the truck will be in production.
Spy shots of the Hyundai Santa Cruz’s construction have been rare compared to other models we know are coming soon. These photos were taken by editor Daniel Golson in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Motor1.com granted permission to republish the photos.
Hyundai engineers cover the truck in heavy camouflage fabric, and use blocky panels to hide the contours. A glimpse of the grille mesh is visible in front. It’s similar to the brand’s other products, including the teased 2021 Santa Fe.
The truck’s styling is hidden from the sides by the company’s concealment. The distance between the rear wheel well and the back of the truck suggests that the cargo bed may be quite small. You won’t be able to fit a 4×8 sheet drywall there. It also hides any styling in the back.
A leaked photo of the Santa Cruz’s naked body strongly suggests that it uses an unibody chassis. Even midsize pickups like this use a body on-frame design. The Honda Ridgeline is the exception to this rule in the United States.
The Santa Cruz is likely to be available with any of Hyundai’s gasoline-fueled engines. Rumours have also circulated that the company might offer a 3.0-liter turbodiesel. However, it is not known if this model will be available in the US.
In November 2019, Hyundai stated that it was building the Santa Cruz factory in Montgomery, Alabama. Production will begin in 2021. Expect prices starting in the mid-$20,000s when the pickup is in showrooms.