To choose between the 2024 Ford Maverick and the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz, you might need to get to know these compact trucks a little better. Our comparison guide is here to help you do exactly that!
Key Takeaways
- The Maverick delivers the thriftiest performance by far, with a hybrid powertrain that helps you earn 37 mpg combined!
- Ford’s compact truck comes standard with the most powerful engine option, supplying 250 horsepower.
- Thanks to its smooth ride, the Santa Cruz can deliver maximum interior comfort.
- With its much lower starting price, the 2024 Ford Maverick is the budget-friendly option!
Does the 2024 Ford Maverick Get Good Gas Mileage?
When you’re shopping for a compact truck, fuel economy is probably high on your list of priorities. If that sounds like you, you’re going to love Ford’s compact truck. With the available hybrid powertrain, the Maverick earns its best EPA estimates: 37 mpg combined (42 city/33 highway)!
Instead of referring to the Santa Cruz as a compact truck, Hyundai prefers the moniker “sport adventure vehicle.” Unfortunately, this sport adventurer isn’t nearly as thrifty as its main competitor, with max EPA ratings of 23 mpg combined (22 city/26 highway).
How Much Horsepower Does the 2024 Ford Maverick Make?
Of the pair, the Maverick has the most fun — on-road and off — thanks to its 250-horsepower base engine! With optional all-wheel drive, you’ll improve both on-road agility and trail-friendly traction. You can use the Maverick’s base engine to tow max loads of up to 4,000 pounds. Properly equipped, a hybrid-powered Maverick can tow 2,000 pounds. And no matter how you equip your Maverick, you can haul payloads weighing up to 1,500 pounds.
Here’s a look at the 2024 Ford Maverick powertrain options:
- Standard turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 277 lb-ft)
- Optional 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid engine (191 horsepower, 155 lb-ft of torque)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive (2.0L only)
The Hyundai Santa Cruz’s only available engine is no match for the Maverick’s base engine. However, its output is on par with the Maverick’s hybrid engine (even if it’s not nearly as efficient). If you equip your Santa Cruz with an aftermarket trailer brake controller, it actually delivers the more impressive towing performance, with a 5,000-pound rating. Without this aftermarket part, however, the Santa Cruz only tows max loads of 3,500 pounds. Payloads fall slightly behind that of the Maverick, maxing out at 1,411 pounds.
Compared to the Maverick, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz has less powertrain options:
- 2.5L four-cylinder engine (191 hp, 181 lb-ft of torque)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive
Is the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Comfortable?
When it comes to smooth cruising, the Santa Cruz delivers the most comfortable ride! Even when the going gets rough, most bumps don’t rattle the cabin. We’re also fans of this Hyundai crossover’s cushy, supportive seating!
Like the Santa Cruz, the Maverick’s unibody design is easy to handle in just about any situation. However, unlike the Santa Cruz, the Maverick is designed to deliver a sporty ride, so it’s not tuned for pure comfort.
Both trucks come standard with an impressive list of comfort and convenience features, including smartphone-friendly infotainment and LED headlamps! And both models treat you to luxury upgrades, such as leather upholstery and heated front seats.
What is the Starting Price of the 2024 Ford Maverick?
Price is another great reason to choose a compact truck over a bigger option! In addition to offering a thrifty performance, the 2024 Ford Maverick has a very budget-friendly MSRP, $23,815. While the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz — starting at $26,900 — also comes at a great price, it won’t help you save as much money as the Maverick.
Is the 2024 Ford Maverick Worth Buying?
If you’re shopping for a city-friendly crossover with a truck bed, you’ll appreciate the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz. But if you’re shopping for a great price on a fuel-efficient truck that also happens to deliver maximum power and payload capabilities, you’ll prefer the 2024 Ford Maverick!