RAM 2500 vs Hyundai Santa Cruz

Big, expensive and hard to park in urban confines, but absolutely necessary for a sizable number of buyers who require their stout powertrains and serious capability, heavy-duty trucks such as the Ram 2500 are designed to work hard.

Verdict: Ram has a solid lineup of trucks for all pickup buyers. From off-road enthusiasts to long-haul truckers towing huge loads from one end of the country to the other, there’s a heavy-duty Ram pickup designed for every need. And if you require the biggest interior with a cargo bed attached, the Ram Mega Cab is the truck you’re looking for.

Based on the Hyundai Tucson compact crossover SUV, the Santa Cruz is not about towing the most weight, carrying the largest and heaviest loads, or driving to off-the-grid locations. Instead, it’s perfect for weekend do-it-yourself projects, hauling bulky items home from the big-box store, and carrying adventure gear on day trips. The 2025 Santa Cruz is better at these tasks than ever, thanks to new tech, styling updates, and off-roading enhancements.

Verdict: We realize the Santa Cruz’s styling isn’t broadly appealing, so if this Hyundai trucklet’s appearance is just too hard to accept, its direct rival, the Ford Maverick, might be more to your liking. If you like the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz, consider getting a turbocharged version. It’s not as fuel-efficient, but it’s a ton more fun to drive.