Exploring the 2025 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ’s Towing Capacity

The Hyundai SANTA CRUZ debuted in 2022 as an innovative blend of SUV comfort and pickup truck functionality. It offered a

new twist on compact utility, combining lifestyle needs with utility expectations. The 2025 model brings substantial improvements and updates, pushing the boundaries of versatility and performance. This article outlines the towing capacity of the 2025 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ and explores the features that make the truck ideal for hauling all your gear.

Is the 2025 SANTA CRUZ a Good Truck for Towing?

The 2025 SANTA CRUZ offers the convenience of an SUV with the practical versatility of a pickup. Thanks to refined engine options, advanced safety features, larger tires, and a 4-foot bed, the new SANTA CRUZ is ideal for hauling outdoor gear, sports equipment, and other oversized cargo that won’t fit into the cabin.

How Much Can a 2025 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Tow?

Designed with towing in mind, the 2025 SANTA CRUZ offers two impressive towing capacities:

• Base towing capacity:3,500 pounds with the standard engine
• Maximum towing capacity: 5,000 pounds with the turbocharged engine

Compared to the previous model years, the 2025 version showcases improved towing performance due to upgraded engine and drivetrain configurations.

Factors Affecting Hyundai Towing Capacity

Here are some things that can impact the towing capacity of the SANTA CRUZ:

• Engine type: standard or turbocharged
• Drivetrain: all-wheel drive (AWD) vs. front-wheel drive (FWD)

Engine Options and Their Impact on Towing

The 2025 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ has a base 2.5L four-cylinder engine, and higher trims have a more powerful, turbocharged version. If you’re getting the SANTA CRUZ with towing in mind, your best bet is the turbocharged engine, available on the XRT and Limited trims.

Standard 2.5L Four-Cylinder Engine

The standard engine delivers ample power:

• Horsepower: 191 hp
• Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds

Turbocharged 2.5L Engine

For those needing more power, the turbocharged engine offers:

• Horsepower: 281 hp
• Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds

Transmission Options

The SANTA CRUZ offers an eight-speed automatic transmission with the base engine and an eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission for the turbo engine.

Impact on Towing Performance

AWD enhances towing performance significantly, providing better traction and stability than FWD, especially when handling heavy loads.

What Is Hyundai Tow Mode?

The Tow Mode feature optimizes the SANTA CRUZ’s performance while towing. This mode adjusts transmission shifts and engine response to better handle the extra weight.

Activating Tow Mode

Locate and press the Tow Mode button on the dashboard to activate Tow Mode.

Benefits of Tow Mode

Tow Mode’s advantages include enhanced acceleration and control, improved transmission cooling, and better fuel efficiency under heavy loads.

2025 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Towing Hitch and Installation

While the 2025 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ doesn’t have a factory-installed towing hitch, Hyundai offers an optional hitch that’s easy to install. It’s best to install a Class III hitch suitable for towing up to 5,000 pounds, which matches the SANTA CRUZ’s maximum capability.

Installation Process

Proper installation requires adhering to manufacturer guidelines:

• Ensure secure attachment to the vehicle’s frame.
• Verify compatibility with the vehicle’s electrical system for trailer lights and brakes.

Proper installation is critical for safe and reliable towing.

Towing Accessories and Equipment

There are several towing accessories, performance parts, and special equipment, including the Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Towing Package and a Hyundai SANTA CRUZ trailer hitch, that can make pulling trailers with your SANTA CRUZ seamless and safe. Here are a few examples:

• Trailer wiring harness: A trailer wiring harness ensures that your trailer’s brake lights and turn signals sync with your SANTA CRUZ’s lighting system.
• Trailer brake controller: Essential for heavier trailers, a brake controller enhances control and safety.
• Weight distribution hitch: This hitch helps distribute weight evenly, reducing sway and improving stability.
• Towing mirrors: Extended mirrors offer better visibility of the trailer and surrounding traffic.

Safety Features for Towing

The SANTA CRUZ comes with several safety features that provide peace of mind while towing:

• Trailer sway control system: This system detects and mitigates trailer sway, promoting safer towing.
• Blind-spot collision warning: With trailer coverage, this feature enhances visibility and awareness on the road.
• Rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist: This system helps detect approaching vehicles when reversing with a trailer.

Practical Towing Tips for SANTA CRUZ Owners

If you’re thinking of towing with the SANTA CRUZ, here are tips to keep in mind:

• Proper weight distribution: Distribute weight evenly to prevent trailer sway and enhance stability.
• Recommended trailer types: The vehicle is ideal for towing utility trailers, small campers, lightweight boats, and similar-sized items.
• Maintenance considerations: Regularly inspect your towing setup, brakes, and tires, especially if you tow frequently.
• Fuel efficiency impact: Towing can decrease fuel efficiency, so plan for more frequent fuel stops.

Comparison With Competitors

The 2025 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ stands out in the compact pickup truck segment regarding towing capacity:

• Ford Maverick: Maximum towing capacity of 4,000 pounds
• Honda Ridgeline: Maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds

The SANTA CRUZ offers superior maneuverability and fuel efficiency compared to many competitors, making it an excellent choice for everyday use and towing.

Experience the 2025 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Today at Hiley Hyundai of Fort Worth

The 2025 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ comes with a refreshed exterior, all-terrain tires, and an improved infotainment system. With a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, the SANTA CRUZ makes for a compelling choice for people who want a vehicle with decent towing capacity and a comfortable cabin. Schedule your test drive at Hiley Hyundai to discover why the 2025 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ is the perfect combination of convenience and utility. Visit Hiley Hyundai of Fort Worth for more information about a test drive and see how the SANTA CRUZ can meet your towing needs.