2024 Ford Maverick vs. Hyundai Santa Cruz
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Overview
Comparing the 2024 Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz reveals fierce competition between two of America's most sought-after compact pickup trucks. While both are well-equipped and popular, let's pit them against each other in a series of categories to see which one comes out on top.
Performance
The 2024 Ford Maverick boasts a punchy 2.0L turbocharged engine delivering 250 horsepower and a hybrid option for enhanced efficiency. The Santa Cruz starts with a 191-horsepower, 2.5L engine and offers an upgrade to a turbocharged variant for a more potent 281-horsepower boost. Despite Santa Cruz's slightly more powerful option, the Maverick's combination of performance and eco-friendly hybrid choice sets a high benchmark in versatility and efficiency.
Towing Capacity
With a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds with the hybrid model and up to 4,000 pounds with the four-cylinder engine plus an optional Tow package, the Maverick outperforms the Santa Cruz's capped maximum of 5,000 pounds (only available on the most expensive trim). Even with lower Santa Cruz models offering up to 3,500 pounds of towing power, the Maverick proves to be a more cost-effective and capable option.
Tech and Safety
In the tech department, the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz are evenly matched with 8-inch infotainment systems, supporting both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. However, the Maverick pulls ahead with additional safety features, including automated emergency braking and other driver-assistance technologies that come standard.
While the Hyundai Santa Cruz puts up a strong fight with its slightly more powerful engine option, the Ford Maverick's winning combination of performance, towing capacity, and tech offerings make it the champion in this comparison.
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