The 2024 Ford Maverick and the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz are close competitors. While they are similar in that they are compact trucks, they do have very unique qualities. But which one is better suited to your needs? Let’s break down a few categories to see which truck comes on top.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- There have been no major changes to either the Maverick or the Santa Cruz since 2022.
- While the Maverick has three trims to the Santa Cruz’s five, it is more inexpensive on all levels.
- Ford’s Tremor off-road configuration makes off-roading a breeze.
Changes to the Maverick and the Santa Cruz in 2024
Both trucks have not seen major changes this year, as they were both newly redesigned in 2022. Since then, Maverick added the Tremor off-road option for an extra $2,995 (available only in the XLT and Lariat trim levels). At that time, Hyundai added the XRT appearance package to the Santa Cruz line.
Available Trims and Pricing: The Maverick
The Ford Maverick is still a reliable, powerful truck and is well worth the price. It’s current starting prices are:
- XL: $23,815
- XLT: $26,315
- LARIAT: $34,85
The Santa Cruz currently has five available trim packages, but the starting MSRP on its base model is higher than that of the Maverick. While you have more trim options in the Santa Cruz, you’re paying more money for every equivalent tier.
- SE: $26,900
- SEL: $29,650
- Night: $38,460
- XRT: $40,100
- Limited: $41,320
Base Engine Comparisons and Fuel Economy: The Maverick
This year’s Maverick comes with a Turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine, which packs a punch with 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This compact truck comes with an an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive (FWD), with the option for all-wheel drive (AWD)
The 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid engine is no longer standard, but is now available as an upgrade, delivering 191 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque, continuously variable transmission and FWD. The Santa Cruz’s base engine — a 2.5L GDI-MPI 4 — produces the same amount of horsepower and torque as the Maverick hybrid.
The Maverick’s hybrid powertrain upgrade returns 37 miles per gallon combined (42 city/33 highway). In comparison, the Santa Cruz gets 23 mpg combined, which is lower than the Maverick standard engine’s 26 mpg combined (23 city/30 highway).
Towing Capacity and Off-Roading: It’s a Toss Up
Admittedly, the Maverick has less towing power than the Santa Cruz with a 2,000-pound capacity. However, it can hit 4,000-pounds when properly equipped. By comparison, the Santa Cruz tows up to 1600 pounds, but 5,000 pounds under the correct configuration.
But off-roading is where the Maverick takes the prize. Ford’s Tremor off-road configuration, available in Maverick’s higher trim packages, allows you to take to the trail with ease, offering more lift and a locking differential. On top of all that, the Tremor has an off-road-tuned suspension and multiple drive modes for different terrains.
Bed Size and Payload: The Maverick
The Maverick’s 4 1/2-foot long bed is half a foot longer than that of the Santa Cruz, which tops out at 4-feet, making it a versatile option for most cargo. Should you need an electrical outlet in the bed, you are in luck, as the Maverick has one with an optional 110-volt upgrade.
The Maverick's slightly longer bed carries up to 1,500 pounds. The Santa Cruz hauls just under that, at 1,411 pounds. While it’s not that much of a difference on paper, it is significant when you’re hauling heavier loads.
The Clear Winner: The Ford Maverick
In nearly all categories, the 2024 Ford Maverick takes the top prize in terms of reliability, fuel economy and spaciousness. Call us to experience this impressive truck for yourself today!