Compare the uncomparable: tacoma vs. santa cruz – your guide to the best truck

The Toyota Tacoma and the Hyundai Santa Cruz are two of the most popular midsize trucks on the market. Both offer a great combination of capability, versatility, and style. But which one is right for you? In this in-depth comparison, we’ll pit the Toyota Tacoma against the Santa Cruz and examine their key features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Capability

Engine Power and Torque

The Toyota Tacoma offers a range of engine options, including a 2.7-liter four-cylinder, a 3.5-liter V6, and a 2.8-liter diesel. The Santa Cruz, on the other hand, comes with a single 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. In terms of power, the Tacoma takes the lead with its 3.5-liter V6 producing 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. The Santa Cruz’s four-cylinder engine delivers 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque.

Towing and Payload Capacity

When it comes to towing and payload capacity, the Tacoma once again holds an advantage. It can tow up to 6,800 pounds and carry a payload of up to 1,685 pounds. The Santa Cruz has a lower towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,750 pounds. However, the Santa Cruz offers a unique feature called the “H-TRAC All-Wheel Drive with Lock Mode,” which enhances its off-road capabilities.

Interior and Features

Cabin Space and Comfort

The Toyota Tacoma offers a spacious and comfortable cabin for both passengers and cargo. The front seats are supportive and offer ample legroom and headroom. The rear seats are also spacious, with enough room for three adults. The Santa Cruz has a smaller cabin, but it still offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior. The front seats are supportive, and the rear seats can accommodate two adults or three children.

Technology and Infotainment

Both the Tacoma and the Santa Cruz come loaded with an array of technology and infotainment features. The Tacoma features an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as a suite of safety features such as lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The Santa Cruz offers a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen display with similar connectivity options and a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane keeping assist.

Off-Road Performance

Trail-Rated Capabilities

If off-road performance is a priority, the Tacoma is the clear choice. It offers a range of trail-rated trim levels that come with features such as locking rear differentials, skid plates, and off-road suspension. The Santa Cruz, on the other hand, is not trail-rated, but it still offers a decent level of off-road capability thanks to its H-TRAC All-Wheel Drive system.

Approach and Departure Angles

For tackling rough terrain, the Tacoma has the advantage with its impressive approach and departure angles. It has an approach angle of 32 degrees and a departure angle of 24 degrees. The Santa Cruz has a slightly less impressive approach angle of 27 degrees and a departure angle of 21 degrees.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

EPA Ratings

In terms of fuel economy, the Tacoma and the Santa Cruz are comparable. The Tacoma with the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The Santa Cruz with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine gets an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Hybrid Options

The Tacoma does not offer a hybrid or electric option, while the Santa Cruz offers a hybrid variant. The Santa Cruz Hybrid combines the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to deliver an EPA-estimated 38 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.

Value and Pricing

Starting Prices

The Toyota Tacoma has a starting price of $27,550, while the Hyundai Santa Cruz has a starting price of $24,480. This makes the Santa Cruz a more affordable option, but it also offers a lower level of capability and features.

Trims and Packages

Both the Tacoma and the Santa Cruz offer a range of trims and packages to meet different needs and budgets. The Tacoma offers a wider selection of trims, including the SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited. The Santa Cruz offers four trims: SE, SEL, SEL Premium, and Limited.

The Bottom Line: Toyota Tacoma vs. Santa Cruz – The Verdict

The Toyota Tacoma and the Hyundai Santa Cruz are both excellent midsize trucks with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Tacoma offers superior towing and payload capacity, off-road performance, and a wider range of trim levels. The Santa Cruz, on the other hand, is more affordable, has better fuel economy, and offers a more comfortable interior.

Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and priorities. If you need a truck for heavy-duty towing, off-road adventures, or maximum capability, the Toyota Tacoma is the clear winner. If you’re looking for a more affordable, fuel-efficient, and stylish truck that still offers a decent level of capability, the Hyundai Santa Cruz is a great option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which truck has a higher towing capacity?

The Toyota Tacoma has a higher towing capacity of 6,800 pounds compared to the Santa Cruz‘s 5,000 pounds.

Which truck has a more comfortable interior?

Both trucks offer comfortable interiors, but the Santa Cruz has a more modern and stylish cabin.

Which truck is more fuel-efficient?

The Hyundai Santa Cruz is more fuel-efficient than the Toyota Tacoma, especially with its hybrid variant.

Which truck is better off-road?

The Toyota Tacoma is better off-road thanks to its trail-rated trim levels and superior approach and departure angles.

Which truck is more affordable?

The Hyundai Santa Cruz has a lower starting price than the Toyota Tacoma.