Is the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a great choice if you're seeking a versatile, stylish, and tech-laden compact truck. With its good fuel economy and strong engine, it excels in urban and moderate towing use. Consider alternatives if more cargo space is needed.
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Pros
- Unique crossover-truck design
- Technologically advanced interior
- Strong turbocharged engine performance
Cons
- Limited off-road capability
- Higher price point for compact truck
Ownership at a glance
Common problems to watch for
- Occasional infotainment system glitches
- Limited bed space compared to traditional trucks
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls (4)
The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz has 4 NHTSA recalls on record. Most recent: Trailer Hitches (campaign 23V181000). All recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.
- Engine And Engine Cooling — Engine — Gasoline — Turbo/Supercharger — Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2022 Santa Fe and Santa Cruz vehicles. The oil supply pipe to the turbocharger may crack, which could result in an oil leak in the engine compartment.…
- Power Train — Automatic Transmission — Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe, Sonata, Veloster N, 2022 Santa Cruz, Elantra N, and Kona N vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limited-mobility drive mode may be impaired, when p…
- Structure — Body — Roof And Pillars — Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2022 Tucson and 2022-2023 Santa Cruz vehicles. The roof moldings may detach.…
- Trailer Hitches — Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Santa Fe, 2021-2023 Santa Fe HEV, 2022-2023 Santa Fe Plug-in HEV and Santa Cruz vehicles potentially equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original …
Recall data: NHTSA. Owner costs & MPG: anonymized aggregates from CarsJudge users who track this vehicle. Updated 2026-07-05.
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This AI-generated assessment is general guidance only, not a substitute for a professional inspection. Always inspect a used vehicle before purchase.