The Hyundai Santa Cruz pickup concept was one of the most well-received vehicles at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show. Since it debuted, big wigs at Hyundai USA have reportedly been lobbying the bigger wigs at the company’s headquarters to approve production of the small Tucson-based crossover with a bed. Now we hear the blessing has been given and the Santa Cruz will eventually see the light of day… we just don’t know when, exactly. According to a statement from Hyundai Motor America CEO Dave Zuchowski,
“Out timing is not crossing our fingers and waiting for approval, it’s trying to figure out when we’re going to announce it.”
Hopefully that announcement won’t take long.
There will be only one variation of the Santa Cruz – a four-door pickup with unibody construction with 5-passenger capacity with an extendable bed. Smaller than the new Honda Ridgeline, the vehicle will be aimed at consumers who like small SUVs but want the additional hauling capabilities offered by the bed. As for towing, expect capacity to be enough for a jet-ski or two. Rumor has it the Santa Cruz may be Hyundai’s first U.S.-bound vehicle to offer a diesel engine, but don’t hold your breath since the pickup will be sold in other markets around the world. Being denied the cool engines other markets get has become something of an American birthright. Watch video from the 2015 North American International Auto Show of the Santa Cruz Concept’s reveal.
