Portuguese 
English 
Spanish 
3 min of reading 
0 comments 
Pickup Receives New Look and Interior Inspired by Tucson in the USA, but Hyundai Frustrates Expectations and Confirms: Updated Model Will Not Come to Brazil for Now.
The new Hyundai Santa Cruz 2025 was unveiled with important updates. The mid-size pickup received a facelift in the United States. It gained a renewed design and a more modern and technological interior. Many Brazilians were eagerly awaiting its arrival. There was an expectation for a launch still in 2025.
However, more recent information from Hyundai confirms: this renewed version will not be sold in Brazil. Let’s explore the new features of the model 2025 and understand the future of the pickup here.
Brazilian Expectation vs. Reality: The Status of the Santa Cruz in the Country
The arrival of the Hyundai Santa Cruz in Brazil was an old promise. Many consumers and enthusiasts were looking forward to the model. The expectation was that it would arrive as early as 2025. This was due to Hyundai’s new strategy of importing more models after the end of the agreement with the CAOA group.
-
For R$ 32,000, a brand new Hyundai car is a rival to the Kwid with a 1.2 engine producing 82 hp, 6 airbags as standard, multimedia with wireless Android Auto, up to 391 liters in the trunk, and a refreshed look for 2026 in India.
-
He bought a new car in 1983, locked it in the barn in 1988, and no one opened the door for 38 years until the family discovered what was stored inside and realized it looked like something out of a movie.
-
A 250cc motorcycle that can reach 560 km with a 14-liter tank, features disc brakes on both wheels and is among the most well-known in Brazil.
-
Man finds over 200 rare cars abandoned on a lot and tries to do the impossible in 8 hours with a surprise at the end.
However, Hyundai itself clarified the situation. The updated pickup, which will hit American stores in mid-2024, will not come to Brazil. The justification is the high demand for the model in the North American market.
Changes in the Exterior Design and the New XRT Version
The facelift of the new Hyundai Santa Cruz 2025 brought notable visual changes. The front grille has been redesigned. The old “V” design is replaced with rectangular cutouts. These straighter lines seek a more robust appearance, closer to that of a truck. The wheels have also been redesigned.
An addition to the lineup is the XRT version. It features specific bumpers with better approach angles. Its grille has an exclusive pattern. All-terrain tires improve traction. Red tow hooks and exclusive 18-inch wheels complete the adventurous look of the XRT.
Technology and Inspiration from the New Tucson
Inside, the Santa Cruz 2025 is inspired by the recent redesign of the Tucson SUV. The main novelty is the curved panoramic display. It combines the digital instrument panel and the multimedia center. The size can reach 12.3 inches. This integration modernizes the cabin and facilitates access to information.
The pickup also incorporates updated connectivity technologies. It now offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also features online updates (OTA – Over-The-Air). The digital key (Digital Key 2 Touch) allows the use of a smartphone to access and start the vehicle.
Retained Engines: 2.5 Naturally Aspirated and Turbo Options for 2025
Despite the visual and internal changes, the powertrain of the new Hyundai Santa Cruz 2025 remains the same. There are two options available in the USA:
- 2.5 Naturally Aspirated Four-Cylinder Engine: Produces 194 hp. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It can have either front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
- 2.5 Turbo Four-Cylinder Engine: Offers 285 hp. It works with a dual-clutch automated transmission and eight speeds.
Safety, Towing Capacity, and the Future of the New Hyundai Santa Cruz 2025 in Brazil
The 2025 lineup has received enhancements in safety. A new driver attention alert has been added. The XRT version can be equipped with 360° view cameras. Additionally, the turbo versions (XRT or Limited) have gained a new towing mode. The towing capacity has been increased to 2,267 kg in these configurations.
Although the new Hyundai Santa Cruz 2025 updated model is not coming to Brazil, the door is not entirely closed. Hyundai is considering developing a pickup model specific for the Brazilian market. This future vehicle would be adapted to local needs and peculiarities. However, there is no set timeline for this to happen. For now, Brazilians will continue without the Santa Cruz on national soil.
Seja o primeiro a reagir!