2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz vs 2023 Ford F-150

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz, with its compact dimensions, evoked memories of the mini trucks from the 1970s to 1990s. However, its unibody construction and unique styling positioned it more as a modern reinterpretation akin to the Subaru Baja or a smaller Honda Ridgeline. Measuring 195.7 inches in length, 75.0 inches in width, and 66.7 inches in height, the Santa Cruz was notably shorter than a Toyota Tacoma but nearly as wide. Its wheelbase of 118.3 inches was also shorter than the Tacoma’s. Despite its compact size, the Santa Cruz was larger than the 2022 Hyundai Tucson, making it a standout on the road with its SUV-like appearance, distinctive grille, and integrated headlights. The interior, while conventional, was honest in design, with materials that matched its price range and purpose as a rugged adventure vehicle.

In contrast, the 2023 Ford F-150 offered a more traditional full-size pickup experience with a vast array of configurations. The model lineup included various cab styles and bed lengths, catering to a wide range of needs. The F-150’s styling was familiar and appealing, avoiding any radical design choices. Inside, the F-150 adopted a functional approach with a modular design, emphasizing practicality over form. The test truck featured the Ford Work Surface upgrade, which provided a flat work surface but made the shifter feel flimsy. Despite some minor issues with interior materials, the F-150 remained a comfortable and spacious option, with cloth seats that were appreciated during hot weather.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz came equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The base engine delivered 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, while an optional turbocharged version offered 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. The naturally aspirated engine was available with front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive, whereas the turbocharged engine was AWD only. The Santa Cruz’s driving experience was more akin to a car than a truck, with a multi-link suspension that provided enjoyable handling and a self-leveling feature for a loaded bed. The turbo engine offered ample power, though the vehicle’s off-road capabilities were limited by its lack of low range and underbody protection. Towing capacity ranged from 3,500 pounds with the base engine to 5,000 pounds with the turbo, with a maximum payload of 1,906 pounds.

The 2023 Ford F-150 offered a variety of engine options, with the test truck featuring a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 producing 400 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and an optional four-wheel-drive system. The F-150 boasted a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 pounds and a payload rating of 3,315 pounds, depending on the configuration. The standard suspension provided a solid ride, though it could feel harsh when unloaded. The F-150 excelled in handling and braking, with a quiet cabin at highway speeds. However, fuel efficiency fell short of expectations, averaging 17 mpg compared to the EPA’s 19 mpg estimate.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz featured a small truck bed measuring 52.1 inches in length, limiting its utility for larger cargo. However, Hyundai included several features to maximize the available space, such as a lockable tonneau cover, adjustable tailgate, tie-down points, and in-bed lighting. The Santa Cruz was available only in a four-door crew-cab configuration, offering seating for five. While rear-seat legroom was tight, front-seat space was more generous, and visibility was good. Storage options included a center console bin and under-seat compartments, though the use of touch pads for controls was less user-friendly.

The 2023 Ford F-150 provided ample interior space, with comfortable seating for five and numerous storage options. The test truck’s High equipment package offered power-adjustable seats and pedals, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. The F-150’s cab accommodated various items during a beach outing, and the cargo bed featured a spray-in bedliner and Pro Power Onboard system. However, accessing the bed was challenging without the optional tailgate step.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a digital instrument cluster. The system was responsive and visually appealing, with features like a digital key for Android phones and Hyundai’s Blue Link telematics service.

The 2023 Ford F-150’s XLT trim included the Sync 4 infotainment system with a 12-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and SiriusXM satellite radio. While the system was user-friendly, it could benefit from bolder graphics for better readability. The test truck also featured remote engine starting, trailer-brake controller, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist, enhancing its functionality.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a driver-attention monitor. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Highway Driving Assist. However, safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time.

The 2023 Ford F-150 was equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0, which included automatic high-beam headlights, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and more. The Assist package added adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and evasive steering assist. The F-150 received high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with a four-star rollover resistance rating.