A COMPACT TRUCK COMPARISON2026 Ford Maverick vs Hyundai Santa Cruz​

WHAT WE’LL BE EXPLORING

Compact trucks have quickly become one of the most exciting segments in today’s market, blending everyday efficiency with the versatility of pickup utility. Being at the forefront of this trend, a common comparison is of the 2026 Ford Maverick vs Hyundai Santa Cruz — each offering a unique take on what a modern small truck should deliver.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into how these two models compare across the categories that matter most to Savannah and Lowcountry drivers. From starting price and trim levels to performance, towing, and fuel economy — we’ll highlight where each truck shines.

We’ll also explore interior comfort, technology, safety features, and lifestyle fit, showing how the Maverick and Santa Cruz align with different buyer priorities — whether that’s hybrid efficiency, premium comfort, or true off-road capability with the Maverick Tremor.

By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of how these compact trucks differ and which one best matches your needs, whether you’re commuting through downtown Savannah, heading to Hilton Head for the weekend, or tackling outdoor adventures across the Lowcountry.

The 2026 Ford Maverick vs Hyundai Santa Cruz comparison shows how each truck appeals to different lifestyles across Savannah, GA and the Lowcountry.

The Maverick’s entry XL trim starts lower, offering hybrid efficiency that makes sense for commuters in Bluffton or Beaufort who want to save on fuel. Moving up, the XLT balances affordability with tech, while the Tremor adds real off-road capability — a practical fit for drivers in Hardeeville who split time between city streets and rugged trails. The Lobo trim even positions the Maverick as a mini sport-truck, giving younger buyers in Hilton Head a fun, urban option.

By contrast, the Hyundai Santa Cruz leans into its crossover identity. The SE and SEL trims emphasize SUV-like comfort, while the Night and XRT trims highlight bold styling and lifestyle appeal. The Limited trim pushes toward luxury, making it attractive for buyers who want premium amenities without moving into a full-size SUV.

Overall, the table underscores that the Maverick lineup offers efficiency, capability, and adventure, while the Santa Cruz emphasizes design, comfort, and upscale features.

For shoppers comparing Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Ford Maverick specs and price, the choice often comes down to whether fuel economy or premium comfort matters more in daily life.

Performance and capability often define how a truck fits into everyday life, and the 2026 Ford Maverick vs Hyundai Santa Cruz comparison shows two distinct personalities on the road.

For drivers in Savannah, GA or Bluffton, SC who prioritize efficiency, the Maverick’s hybrid system is a standout. Delivering up to 40 mpg city*, it makes commuting affordable while still offering the utility of a pickup. Choosing the AWD Hybrid configuration expands its versatility (without sacrificing efficiency with 37 mpg city*), giving Beaufort residents confidence on wet coastal roads without sacrificing fuel economy.

For those who prefer higher performance over efficiency, the Maverick’s 2.0L EcoBoost® engine is the answer. With 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, it provides strong acceleration and confident towing — up to 4,000 lbs with the tow package*. This makes it a compelling option for Hardeeville drivers who want more muscle without moving into a larger truck.

On the other hand, the Santa Cruz leans into raw strength. Its turbo AWD engine produces 311 lb-ft of torque and can tow up to 5,000 lbs — a clear advantage for Hilton Head buyers hauling boats or recreational gear. Payload capacity also edges higher than the Maverick, making it appealing for those who need extra hauling capability.

In real-world terms, the Maverick offers a choice between efficiency and performance, while the Santa Cruz positions itself as a lifestyle truck with maximum towing capacity.
This Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Ford Maverick specs comparison underscores that the Maverick is the more versatile option, while the Santa Cruz appeals to buyers who value power above all.

Dimensions and cargo space often determine how a compact truck fits into daily life, and the 2026 Ford Maverick vs Hyundai Santa Cruz size comparison highlights subtle but meaningful differences.

The Maverick is slightly longer overall, with a wheelbase that stretches over 121 inches, giving it a more planted feel on highways around Savannah, GA. Its taller stance also provides a bit more headroom and visibility, which can be reassuring for Bluffton or Beaufort drivers navigating busy traffic.

The Santa Cruz, by contrast, is wider and lower, leaning into its crossover-inspired design. That extra width translates into a more stable, SUV-like ride, which Hilton Head buyers may appreciate when prioritizing comfort and style.

However, the Maverick’s edge comes in bed utility. With a longer, deeper bed and a total volume of 33.3 cu.ft. compared to the Santa Cruz’s 27 cu.ft., it offers more usable cargo space for Hardeeville residents hauling tools, gear, or weekend project supplies.

In real-world terms, the Maverick emphasizes practicality and cargo flexibility, while the Santa Cruz favors sleek proportions and a more lifestyle-oriented footprint. This Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Ford Maverick specs comparison shows that buyers focused on bed size and utility will lean toward the Maverick, while those drawn to design and crossover comfort may prefer the Santa Cruz.

Interior space and comfort often determine how a compact truck feels in everyday use, and the 2026 Ford Maverick vs Hyundai Santa Cruz comparison shows two slightly different approaches.

Both seat five passengers, but the Santa Cruz edges out the Maverick with a touch more overall passenger volume at 101.8 cu.ft. This translates into a slightly roomier cabin, which Hilton Head buyers who prioritize SUV-like comfort may appreciate.

The Maverick, however, offers more front legroom at 42.8 inches, giving Savannah commuters or Bluffton drivers who spend long hours behind the wheel a bit more stretch-out space. Rear legroom is competitive between the two, though the Maverick’s range of 35.9–36.9 inches means trims can vary slightly in comfort. Shoulder and hip room are nearly identical, with the Santa Cruz providing a fraction more width, while the Maverick balances this with clever cargo solutions.

Where the Maverick really stands apart is in utility. Its FLEXBED® system and fold-flat rear seatbacks create versatile storage options for Beaufort or Hardeeville residents hauling tools, gear, or weekend project supplies. The Santa Cruz counters with available lockable tonneau covers and split-folding rear seats, appealing to buyers who want secure cargo space with a lifestyle-oriented design.

In real-world terms, this Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Ford Maverick specs comparison shows the Maverick leaning into practicality and flexible cargo management, while the Santa Cruz emphasizes cabin comfort and premium utility touches.

Technology and comfort are increasingly central to compact truck ownership, and the 2026 Ford Maverick vs Hyundai Santa Cruz comparison shows how each brand approaches the cabin experience.

The Maverick leans into a more advanced infotainment setup, with a larger 13.2‑inch touchscreen powered by SYNC® 4 and Ford Co‑Pilot360® Assist 2.0. For Savannah, GA commuters or Bluffton families, that means a more intuitive interface and driver‑assist features that make daily driving easier. The available B&O® premium audio system also adds refinement for those who want a richer sound experience.

The Santa Cruz counters with a sleek 10.25‑inch touchscreen paired with a digital instrument cluster, giving Hilton Head buyers a modern, SUV‑like feel. Its available Bose® audio system and wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™ emphasize convenience and lifestyle appeal

Comfort features also differ: the Maverick offers heated seats, mirrors, and steering wheel, while the Santa Cruz adds ventilated front seats — a perk for Beaufort drivers dealing with humid summers.

Convenience highlights reinforce each truck’s personality. The Maverick’s FLEXBED® storage system and rear under‑seat compartments make it a practical fit for Hardeeville residents tackling DIY projects or hauling gear. The Santa Cruz’s smart cargo bed with lockable tonneau cover, meanwhile, appeals to buyers who want secure, stylish utility.

In real‑world terms, this Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Ford Maverick specs comparison shows the Maverick prioritizing advanced tech and versatile utility, while the Santa Cruz emphasizes comfort and premium lifestyle features.

Safety and driver-assist technology are increasingly important for compact truck buyers, and the 2026 Ford Maverick vs Hyundai Santa Cruz comparison shows how each brand delivers peace of mind in their own way.

The Maverick’s Ford Co‑Pilot360® suite includes adaptive cruise control and a lane‑keeping system, features that make commuting in Savannah, GA or Bluffton, SC less stressful. Its available 360‑degree camera also adds confidence when maneuvering in tight spaces, whether parking downtown or backing into a driveway in Beaufort.

The Santa Cruz counters with Hyundai SmartSense®, which offers smart cruise control with stop‑and‑go functionality — a useful feature for Hilton Head drivers navigating heavy resort traffic. Its surround view monitor provides a premium touch, giving a clear perspective around the vehicle that appeals to buyers who value convenience and safety integration.

Collision avoidance and blind‑spot monitoring are standard across both trucks, though each uses its own branded system. In practice, this means Hardeeville residents can expect similar levels of protection whether they choose the Maverick or Santa Cruz.

Ultimately, this Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Ford Maverick specs comparison shows the Maverick leaning into practical driver‑assist tools and proven safety systems, while the Santa Cruz emphasizes premium convenience features like stop‑and‑go cruise and surround view monitoring.

Trim levels often reveal how a truck adapts to different lifestyles, and the 2026 Ford Maverick vs Hyundai Santa Cruz lineup shows clear distinctions.

The Maverick XL serves as a budget-friendly daily driver, ideal for Savannah, GA commuters who want efficiency without overspending. Its XLT trim adds convenience and balance, making it a strong fit for Bluffton families who need practicality with modern features.

For buyers who want personality, the Maverick Lobo™ trim delivers sporty urban appeal, while the Santa Cruz Night trim emphasizes bold styling — both suiting Hilton Head drivers who value design as much as utility.

At the premium level, the Maverick Lariat® focuses on comfort and tech for professionals, while the Santa Cruz Limited leans toward luxury amenities, appealing to Beaufort residents who want a crossover-like cabin with truck utility.

Finally, adventure seekers in Hardeeville will find the Maverick Tremor® built for off-road capability, while the Santa Cruz XRT offers rugged styling and very-light trail performance, often struggling where the Maverick thrives.

In real-world terms, this Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Ford Maverick specs comparison shows the Maverick lineup leaning into versatility and capability, while the Santa Cruz trims emphasize lifestyle and premium comfort.

Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT vs Ford Maverick Tremor Off-Road Comparison

When comparing the Ford Maverick vs Hyundai Santa Cruz for lifestyles that require more off-road use — the question of which model is more capable actually has a straightforward answer.

The Ford Maverick Tremor has been presented as the clear winner in off-road situations compared to the Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT in multiple independent review testings.

HERE'S WHY:

• Approach and Departure Angles/Ground Clearance: The Maverick Tremor has a better approach angle and is lifted higher off the ground (9.1 inches) compared to the Santa Cruz XRT (8.7 or 8.8 inches), which struggles with rubbing its front and rear bumpers during off-roading.

• Protection: The Maverick Tremor features a metal skid plate underneath to protect the engine, a crucial feature for off-roading that the Santa Cruz XRT lacks.

• Off-Road Specific Features:

  • Locking Differential: The Maverick Tremor has a rear locking differential, which is essential for getting unstuck in challenging situations. The Santa Cruz XRT does not have this feature.

  • Off-Road Telemetrics/Camera: The Maverick provides off-road specific information like pitch and roll angles, and a front camera with tire marks, which greatly aids in navigating difficult terrain. The Santa Cruz lacks these specific off-road telemetrics.

  • Trail Assist: The Maverick offers a "one-pedal trail assist" feature, acting as cruise control for off-roading, allowing the driver to set a speed and focus on steering. The Santa Cruz has downhill assist but not a similar trail assist.

• Tires & Suspension: The Maverick Tremor comes with actual off-road tires and a suspension system tuned for off-roading, providing a stiffer but more capable ride in uneven terrain. While the Santa Cruz also has all-terrain tires, they are not as capable for heavy off-roading

• Power Delivery: The Maverick demonstrates more confident power delivery during uphill climbs and challenging terrain, requiring less throttle input.

In conclusion, the Ford Maverick Tremor is designed and equipped with features specifically for off-road performance, making it the superior choice for adventure compared to the Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT, which is more suited for lighter off-road conditions.

Why Buy Your Ford Maverick
at J.C. Lewis Ford in Savannah, GA

At J.C. Lewis Ford Dealership, we believe capability is more than a number on a spec sheet — it’s a way of life. You’ll see it in the strength and versatility of every Ford we offer, and you’ll feel it in the personalized care our team provides from the moment you step inside our showroom.

For generations, we’ve combined deep product expertise with the warmth of true Southern hospitality, helping drivers across Savannah and the Lowcountry discover the Ford that matches their ambitions — whether that means efficient commuting, family comfort, or rugged off-road adventure.

Our showroom features a hand-selected range of new Ford models alongside certified pre-owned options, each presented with clarity and honesty. The atmosphere is relaxed, the guidance is thoughtful, and your comfort is always our priority.

Beyond the showroom, our advanced service center and ownership benefits are designed to keep your Ford performing at its peak. From routine maintenance to specialized care, every step of your journey with us reflects the same confidence and dependability you’ll experience behind the wheel — mile after mile.

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