The Ford Maverick is similarly a compact crossover pickup and there are certainly similarities because of that, but the two execute that general concept in vastly different ways. Of course, it's only just gained a competitor, and it's even more in demand. Part of that comes down to global supply shortages, but the Santa Cruz is at least good enough to warrant the interest. The Santa Cruz is already for sale, but demand has been very strong, so you may struggle to find one on a dealer lot (or at least one without a hefty dealer markup). This body style definitely has potential. At the same time, its clever available cargo cover that rolls back like a garage door maintains the sort of security and all-weather protection provided by an SUV. That could make it more useful for certain buyers. Its open bed, despite being small for a pickup, is still far longer than an SUV's cargo area and obviously offers infinite height.

Really, it's best to view the Santa Cruz as an alternative to compact crossover SUVs rather than midsize pickups. It also makes it less robust for off-roading and towing (even if its ground clearance and 5,000-pound max are better than the average crossover), while its diminutive size can best be seen in its small 4.3-foot bed length. That means it's lighter, more agile and more efficient in terms of both fuel consumption and interior space. Rather than a truck's usual body-on-frame setup, it has a car-like unibody. Not only is it a compact pickup, measuring far smaller than the Toyota Tacomas of the world, it's of a totally different construction. The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz is an entirely different type of vehicle.

2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Review | More alt-SUV than mini truck Compact and a crossover, it's as much an alternative to small SUVs as other pickups

Seat covers for 2022 hyundai santa cruz