If you’re shopping for a compact truck, chances are the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz are on your radar. Both bring solid features to the table—but which one fits your lifestyle best? Let’s walk through updates, trims, performance in this 2025 Ford Maverick vs Hyundai Santa Cruz comparison.
Key Takeaways
- The Maverick now offers six trims, while the Santa Cruz sticks to four.
- Ford’s off-road-ready Tremor package is now a standalone trim.
- As of May 1, 2025, the Maverick starts at $28,590 and tops out at $42,345. The Santa Cruz ranges from $30,200 to $44,200.
Which Compact Truck Had More Upgrades: 2025 Ford Maverick
Both trucks saw some big updates this year. The Maverick received a considerable glow-up in its six trims.
- Each model now has its own unique grille.
- You can finally get all-wheel drive on hybrid models.
- Ford discontinued front-wheel drive on 2.0-liter EcoBoost trims.
- Lariat models get a new “Smoke Truffle” interior with bronze accents.
- Select trims now feature a 13.2-inch infotainment screen, a 5G modem, and an optional 360-degree camera.
- The Tremor is now its own trim and includes Pro Trailer Hitch Assist and Backup Assist, which the Lariat gets too.
- Some trims also offer an optional Black Package with blacked-out accents.
- New paint colors include Eruption Green, Space White Metallic, Ruby Red Metallic, and Velocity Blue.
The Santa Cruz also received light changes.
- It borrows its tougher-looking front end from the 2025 Tucson.
- The XRT trim now includes front tow hooks, 18-inch wheels, beefier tires, and daytime running lights.
- A new 12.3-inch dual-screen setup handles infotainment and gauges (lower trims get one 12.3-inch screen plus analog gauges).
- The dashboard, center console, and steering controls all got a redesign.
Which Compact Truck Is Less Expensive: 2025 Ford Maverick
Here’s how the two trucks compare when it comes to options and price:
2025 Ford Maverick
- XL: $28,590
- XLT: $31,090
- Lobo Standard: $36,850
- Lariat: $38,885
- Tremor: $41,945
- Lobo High: $42,345
2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
- SE: $30,200
- SEL: $31,900
- XRT: $41,700
- Limited: $44,200
So, the Maverick is more affordable overall—and offers more trim variety.
Which Compact Truck Offers More Engine Options: It's a Tie
The Maverick comes with two choices under the hood:
- A 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbo-four that makes 238 horsepower and pairs with an 8-speed automatic (AWD standard).
- A 2.5-liter hybrid with 191 horsepower and optional AWD (standard FWD), using a CVT.
Santa Cruz also offers two powertrains:
- SE and SEL have a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 191 hp and an 8-speed automatic.
- XRT and Limited come with a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that bumps power to 281 hp, paired with a dual-clutch transmission.
All-wheel drive is optional on most Santa Cruz trims but not the SE.
Which Compact Truck Offers Better Towing Numbers: 2025 Ford Maverick
The Maverick tows up to 2,000 pounds, or 4,000 pounds when properly equipped. It features a 4.5-foot bed—longer than the Santa Cruz’s—and offers an available 115-volt outlet in the bed for added functionality.
The Santa Cruz tows 1,600 pounds, or up to 5,000 pounds with the right setup. But its 4-foot bed gives up a bit of utility space compared to the Maverick.
Which One Should You Pick: 2025 Ford Maverick
If you want a compact truck that’s versatile, efficient, and still budget-friendly, the 2025 Ford Maverick is a strong choice. It delivers great value without skimping on features. Call us or swing by Jarrett-Gordon Ford Davenport for a test drive—we’d love to get you behind the wheel.