2025 Ford Maverick vs. 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
2025 Ford Maverick vs. Hyundai Santa Cruz: Compact Showdown
If you’re looking for a truck that delivers big capability in a smaller, more practical package, the 2025 Ford Maverick and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz are two of the best options on the market. These compact pickups bring the convenience of a truck bed with the efficiency and maneuverability of an SUV, making them ideal for weekend warriors, city drivers, and anyone who needs versatility without the bulk of a full-size truck. But which one is the better fit for you? Let’s take a closer look at how they compare.
Power, Efficiency, and Capability
The 2025 Ford Maverick sticks to its winning formula, offering a standard 2.5-liter hybrid engine that balances power and fuel efficiency better than any other truck in its class. For those who want a little extra muscle, an available 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine provides more horsepower and torque, making towing and hauling easier. The biggest upgrade for 2025? The Maverick now offers all-wheel drive on the hybrid model, giving you extra traction without sacrificing efficiency. Whether you’re navigating slick roads or heading off the beaten path, the AWD hybrid setup makes the Maverick even more capable than before.
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz, on the other hand, leans more toward performance. It comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, but its real power comes from the available turbocharged version, which delivers stronger acceleration. However, the Santa Cruz is heavier than the Maverick, which means its power advantage doesn’t necessarily translate to a faster or more fuel-efficient drive. If you’re after a truck that maximizes fuel savings while still getting the job done, the Maverick’s hybrid system is hard to beat.
Comfort and Technology for the Everyday Driver
Inside, the Maverick prioritizes practicality and smart design. The cabin is spacious for a compact truck, with a no-nonsense layout that makes controls easy to use. One of the biggest highlights for 2025 is the upgraded infotainment system, which now features a 13.2-inch touchscreen with Ford’s SYNC 4 software. It comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keeping you connected without the hassle of cords. Ford also includes plenty of clever storage solutions, like under-seat compartments and customizable FITS slots, so you can configure the interior to suit your needs.
The Santa Cruz takes a slightly different approach, leaning into a more premium feel. Its higher trims offer a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and a touchscreen infotainment system, along with available leather-trimmed seats. While it feels more refined, the focus is more on aesthetics than on practical features. The Maverick, by comparison, keeps things simple and functional, making it a great choice for those who want a truck that works just as hard inside as it does outside.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Both the Maverick and Santa Cruz come well-equipped with safety features, giving you confidence no matter where the road takes you. The 2025 Maverick includes Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of driver-assist technologies like Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane-Keeping System, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. With these standard features, you’ll have extra support whether you’re navigating busy streets or backing into a tight parking spot.
The Santa Cruz also includes a solid lineup of safety technology, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and an available Blind-Spot View Monitor. It offers many of the same driver aids as the Maverick, though Ford’s Co-Pilot360 system is well-integrated and designed with truck drivers in mind, giving the Maverick a slight edge when it comes to overall usability.
The 2025 Ford Maverick and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz both offer plenty to like, but they cater to slightly different drivers. The Maverick is the ultimate choice if you want a practical, fuel-efficient, and budget-friendly truck with real capability, thanks to its standard hybrid engine, now available all-wheel drive, and smartly designed interior. Check out our new Ford inventory today or contact us with any questions! The team at Keller Bros. Ford Lebanon is here to help you find the perfect truck for your lifestyle.
