The compact pickup segment is more competitive than ever, especially since the Ford Maverick is riding high on its official MotorTrend "Truck of the Year" victory. Despite this title, buyers are still cross-shopping it against the Hyundai Santa Cruz. To make your decision easier, let's break down how these small trucks stack up against each other as we look at 2026 Ford Maverick vs 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz differences here!
Key Takeaways
- This year, there are trim and drivetrain updates for the Mav, while the Santa Cruz remains mostly unchanged.
- MotorTrend crowns the Maverick as its 2026 "Truck of the Year."
- As of June 3, 2026, Maverick trims are $29,990 to $43,270, compared to the Santa Cruz lineup at $31,350 to $45,300.
Updates and Trim Cost Breakdown for the Maverick and Santa Cruz
Ford shakes up the Maverick's visual identity by introducing Orange Fury and Marsh Gray to the palette, while dropping Desert Sand and Eruption Green. The brand also changed how you configure the XL and XLT--the FWD hybrid remains the baseline, but you can now get the FWD turbo-four for the same price, with AWD as an available upgrade for the turbo. Ford removed wireless charging across the Mav's lineup. Additionally, a tire inflator kit is now standard equipment on the XL, XLT, Lariat, and Lobo, leaving the Tremor as the only trim with a standard full-size spare tire.
The XLT trim gains attachable cupholders for the armrest, and the optional Luxury package adds a four-way manual passenger seat. All models get classic blue Ford emblems. Finally, owners now get one free year of connectivity, with a paid seven-year subscription available.
Maverick lineup prices are:
- XL: $29,990
- XLT: $32,490
- Lobo Standard: $37,775
- Lariat: $39,935
- Tremor: $42,490
- Lobo High: $43,270
Because the Santa Cruz got a full refresh just last year, Hyundai leaves it virtually untouched. There is one small update, however--the automaker eliminated the dark green interior color option. Hyundai's model pricing is slightly higher across the board:
- SE: $31,350
- SEL: $33,000
- SEL Activity: $36,050
- XRT: $42,950
- Limited: $45,300
Engine Power and Drivetrains in the Maverick vs. the Santa Cruz
The Maverick's standard 2.5-liter hybrid system delivers 191 horsepower and mates with a variable transmission (CVT) and FWD or AWD. You can also opt for the 2.0-liter turbo-four, which cranks out 250 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic and comes standard with AWD. For off-road enthusiasts, the performance-minded Lobo trim uses a unique seven-speed automatic paired with steering-wheel paddle shifters.
The Santa Cruz's SE, SEL, and SEL Activity trims feature a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower. It pairs with a traditional eight-speed automatic. Stepping up to the XRT or Limited models unlocks a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 281 horsepower. That turbo setup links to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. You can add AWD to any Santa Cruz trim, but it comes standard with the turbo engine.
Powertrains
| 2026 Ford Maverick |
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz |
| 2.5-liter hybrid; standard CVT or AWD |
Standard 2.5-liter four-cyl and 8-speed automatic on SE, SEL, and SEL Activity |
| 2.0-liter turbo four; 8-speed automatic AWD |
Standard 2.5-liter turbo four and 8-speed dual-clutch on XRT and Limited model |
| 7-speed automatic with paddle shifters (Lobo trim availability) |
AWD available on all trims; standard with turbo four |
Which Small Truck Belongs in Your Driveway?
With a broader selection of trims, a lower starting price, and a fresh "Truck of the Year" trophy in its display case, the Mav easily claims our top price! As the compact pickup that continues to lead in its class, it's the clear choice. Stop by Jarrett-Gordon Ford in Davenport for a test drive today!