Return of the Mini Trucks: 2025 Ford Maverick vs. Hyundai Santa Cruz

Powertrain Comparison

Both trucks offer a robust powertrain lineup, starting with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. However, the Ford Maverick edges ahead with its hybrid variant, achieving an impressive 42 MPG in the city compared to the Santa Cruz's 22 MPG. For 2025, the hybrid Maverick now includes an all-wheel-drive option.

When it comes to turbocharged engines, the Santa Cruz’s 2.5-liter turbo outshines with 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, compared to the Maverick’s 2.0-liter turbo producing 238 horsepower and 277 lb-ft. Despite the power advantage, the Santa Cruz’s heavier build levels the playing field in acceleration, with both trucks reaching 0-60 mph in approximately six seconds.

Payload and Towing Capabilities

The beds of these trucks are similar in size, both slightly larger than four feet square. The Maverick can haul up to 1,500 pounds in its bed, while the Santa Cruz is close behind at 1,411 pounds. However, towing capacity reveals a stark contrast: the Santa Cruz can tow up to 5,000 pounds with its turbo engine, whereas the Maverick maxes out at 4,000 pounds with an optional towing package.

For 2025, Ford introduces innovative towing features such as Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, which automatically aligns the truck to a trailer, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist, simplifying trailer maneuvering with a dashboard knob.

Off-Road Performance

The Hyundai Santa Cruz offers an XRT trim with all-terrain tires and front tow hooks, but it doesn’t quite match the Ford Maverick’s off-road prowess. The Maverick’s FX4 package adds skid plates and a raised suspension, while the Tremor trim takes it further with a locking rear differential. For street performance enthusiasts, the Maverick Lobo brings a sporty edge with lowered suspension, torque-vectoring, and high-performance brake components.

Interior Dimensions

Interior space is nearly identical, with minor differences in headroom and legroom. The Maverick provides slightly more front legroom (42.8 inches vs. 41.4 inches), while the Santa Cruz offers better rear-seat legroom when compared to the Maverick’s hybrid variant.

Overall, both trucks cater well to passengers, but personal preference for styling and trim features might tip the scale.

Pricing and Features

The Ford Maverick starts at $27,890, undercutting the Hyundai Santa Cruz’s $29,895 base price. While the Santa Cruz includes more standard features, such as a composite bed and advanced driver-assist systems, the Maverick allows buyers to customize extensively through an a la carte options menu.

The Santa Cruz also integrates luxury features, like ventilated seats, at lower trim levels. Meanwhile, the Maverick offers more daring interior design choices, including two-tone and accent-stitched options, to cater to style-conscious buyers.

Which Truck Is Right for You?

Choosing between the 2025 Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz ultimately comes down to personal priorities. The Maverick shines with better fuel efficiency and innovative tech features, while the Santa Cruz excels in towing and luxury options. Regardless of your choice, both compact pickups deliver immense value and capability for their size.