2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL Review - after 1 week

Review and my impressions after owning the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL for 1 week. MOSTLY positive! There’s a couple of things that I point out for potential buyers. I go over my thoughts of the 2.5L naturally aspirated engine. Is it enough power?

[@StraightOtohGunga]

Really nice review, glad to see more information on a more basic model.

[@padawanpanther468]

Thanks!

[@isaac198428]

Great review buddy! KZbin reviewers mostly go for the upper trims and don’t actually live with the vehicles so can be biased at times but when you’re the actual owner then you’re more honest about your likes and dislikes of the vehicle. Don’t watch folks like Scotty who will only sell you Toyotas and look down on every other vehicle that he doesn’t even have to live with since his research is based on what others say and personal bias. I own and daily drive a 10 yr old Hyundai Sonata currently with over 200k miles on the dash. They are great vehicles if taken care of just like any other.

[@isaac198428]

Agreed! Scotty and other KZbinrs are very biased and they don’t personally live with the vehicles they tell people to buy or not buy. I’ve owned KIA, Ford and currently own a 2011 Hyundai with 231 miles and can confirm that they’re good, reliable cheap to maintain vehicles. Yes Scotty will insist on Toyota but he’s never owned a KIA or even a Tesla to give an in-depth review of the pros and cons.

[@jordanmacomber2406]

Most informative walkthrough I’ve seen yet for this trim! I just picked up the SEL with the activity package and so far loving it. Beforehand I was worried about the 2.5L 4 cylinder without the turbo, but after the test drive I found that it would be more than enough. Thank you!

[@padawanpanther468]

Thank you! Enjoy your SC! Stay tuned I may do some more. I’m not a “KZbinr” but people seem to enjoy the video so who knows.

[@guanacocruz765]

How much was it,

[@osbertosolis8785]

Is it four WD or front WD only couse ., I love to be just front WD.,

[@osbertosolis8785]

And I forgot to ask , what did you pay for 27 , 38 or what,! ???

[@Joe-co4sq]

Great review Andrew. I just called the dealer today for information on the Santa Cruz and the only one they had in stock was a turbo. I've done a lot of research on the trim levels and options. I gave them the specs that I wanted. The SE model in Sage Grey, AWD, tow package and floor mats. I'm glad to hear the non turbo model is satisfactory on power. I figured it would be with the 8 speed transmission. Turbo engines are under more strain than a normally aspirated engine and this turbo engine has a dual clutch transmission which are a little questionable in my opinion as fas as dependability. The model you have is a regular torque converter transmission which have a better history. Sincerest thanks on your video. It has definitely helped me.

[@rusty383]

Mine came with 125 maentnice package. If you keep the oil changes right on time you will not have any problems. Plus this new engine has fantastic reviews. A lot more heavy duty parts. I traded my 2019 Soul turbo in I really Loved. It was a little different 1.5 turbo and it was a great little car. The only thing I don't like is Hyundai make you have a appointment for everything. It really Sucks the Big Wazoo! I hate it. But free is free. Never lol your paying for it somewhere

[@stevehinkley4112]

Great Video! Are you happy with the interior lighting, and the illumination provided by the headlights?

[@toddrodenkirch1909]

Bought the SEL with activity package. The non-turbo motor is great getting 30 mpg plus and plenty of power. Will be interesting when I get my small camper. Mileage will go down but should have plenty of towing power.

[@marquesjoyner8813]

I recently bought a se model after watching your video, Everything I needed the truck to do it does perfectly well .. I have a base engine all wheel drive model it more then enough power for me .. Better then I expected gas mileage and seems to be getting better. And for a guy like myself that’s 6’1 it has great headspace .. Go Hyundai

[@SnarkyLady]

Bought my 2022 in ice white. It had 7,000 miles and all the bells and whistles. I bought it from a ford dealership and they didn't know much about it. These videos are helpful!!! My last was a 2007 Pontiac G6, so the technology is amazing!! Love it!!! And former owner took the depreciation 💸

[@Ambocom]

Literally a better review than the professional reviewers

[@armandojuan64]

I'm buying the same truck , FWD , same color . I ride mountain bikes and that bed is perfect . I like the analog layout with physical buttons and knobs and the cluster too . I like cloth seats . I don't like the piano gloss finish that is so common in today's cars . Your car is beautiful , congrats .... and that steering wheel is something . This is simply the most sincere and complete review of this car that I have ever watched and for that , I thank you by subscribing to your channel .

[@gwlane5509]

Hows it going with it? I had Mav on order now moved to 23 after 8mths of waiting...I always had concerns of the Maverick plastics scratching very easy and overall cheap build quality outside of the powertrain.... So...how do you like the SEL trim and how is the interior holding up? I like the look of the knobs and gauges....on the SEL.

[@glamdring0007]

Thanks for reviewing the SEL...it's the trim I'm most interested in and I like the fact that it has some buttons and knobs on the center stack instead of the all touch interface of the higher end models. Add in the 3500lb towing rating and I really question paying the premium for the top end model when the SEL is such a nice vehicle.

[@nolanperry]

Thanks for a great walk through of the SEL trim, and congrats on your Cruz!

[@TheHelado36]

Everyone else reviewing the top of the line one, so glad to find this video !

[@stbeeze]

Great review. I’ve been eyeing the SE and the SEL model. I test drove the turbo limited and it hauls ass. Was so much fun to drive but hey, I’m 65 years old, I really don’t need a turbo and I don’t haul or pull anything so I see myself getting your model. Thanks.

[@meganhume551]

I purchased the SEL with the activity package at the end of October, love it. I test drove the top of the line with the turbo but didn't want to spend that much so the dealership got me the one I bought from a dealership in Florida. North Charleston Hyundai had a few of the turbo models and ended up trading one of theirs for the one they sold me. It's a great little pick up and considering I had ordered the hybrid Maverick in July but received an email in October that it would be next year before I could expect delivery I was surprised I was able to get one of these within a few days.

[@andrewb1064]

Great job Andrew! When I get my SE AWD I will make a video too, I think it important to hear from every day consumers. I look forward to if you have any update videos.

[@raybanez642]

Awesome review of the SEL trim. I am also interested in this exact color and trim with the Activity package. I won't be getting one until next year though. I also agree that I don't need the turbo model. I don't tow at all and I can apply the cost of the turbo towards the activity package. Please continue to provide reviews as you daily drive it. I agree with the gloss black issue with fingerprints/dust. I may plan on covering it with a carbon fiber vinyl trim. I love the vehicle and have never owned a pickup truck. I don't like the way they ride but this one rides like an SUV and easier to maneuver and park as well. It also will fit in my garage. Thanks for the review since there are very few SEL reviews out there at this time. Keep it coming.

[@arcticparatrooper11b2p]

I agree with you, Andrew. The base engine does not feel underpowered in the least. The turbo engine is very quick but also will cost you more at the pump if you can't discipline your right foot. Your setup is the exact trim and color I'm getting later this week.

[@seamusmclaughlin5916]

Smart mode with the turbo has averaged 24 miles per gallon for me. And I like the availability to smoke Ford trucks when they mess with it. Just Saying. And it does.

[@TheJiggs666]

I can't believe I walked away from my reservation....I ordered the SE in black, AWD. It arrived 12/8/2021. I saw the photos and decided to hold off. The dealership sold that car in ONE day. Now I'm working with them again to secure one.....should have treated myself for Christmas.

[@rusty383]

I have the same Color in the SEL Premium. I absolutely Love it . First thing I noticed is that you absolutely have to keep a static rag with you to keep everything clean. Also if you want to break up the black interior go get the dark red trim with the 3m tape on the back. Fallow the line of door panels around the dash and back around the passenger door. Then the edges of the Console. You can get it in Crome if you don't like the red . It only took 45 minutes to install even my Dealership Love what I did. Sorry this won't let me seed you a picture of it. With this color Stone blue. You only have a few colors options that really look good. Shame you didn't get the Bed cover because you will not miss the foot . Its great knowing you can lock it . Down fall is Hyundai Service. It really sucks! I have owned Kia's since 2000 and never had to make Service appointments for oil changes and small items. Never! Hyundai is just the opposite! At least with my Dealer. And my Hyundai Dealer is owned by the same person Colonial in Walthal Va. Off I 95. Now issues! I didn't have my truck 1hr and the USB port broke off inside! It's really hard to get your hand in to plug into when gearshift is in park . And you only have one period! The other one is only a power outlet. Thank goodness my wife can use the power pad underneath. Yes the turbo is fast as hell and brings the HP to almost 300. And torque to 312 I think. But I need it to pull my travel trailer. If you need a towing package don't even bother with Hyundai! They are way over PRICED and they can't get everything you need anyway with it . The Ford Maverick is really going to kick their butts in that. I search everywhere for a towing package for my truck. I finally went to my old friends at You Haul in Richmond. They had everything I needed installed for just a little over 600 bucks. Hyundai wants 600 just for the hich! And you have to have wiring harness. A 7pin light and charge and camper battery maintainer and also a Electric break controller. Hyundai just gave me a Sorry. Mabe near future. The should not have made and advised a 5000 tow capacity and not had your crap together! Ridiculous! I have had my truck since August. And already got almost 7k on it ready for my first Service. Now I don't know what you're plan came with but mine came a 125k free maintenance program so I am at the mercy of Hyundai unless I want to pay for it at KIA. Now I am same height as you but Santa sized . We Love to go to Gatlinburg and Hershey Pa. My truck in smart mode get 31 to 33 mpg and I am no sissy I like to drive 5 or 10 over all the time. Except for pee breaks it's a wonderful travel vehicle and every where we stop people want to see it or have a touch. You can't keep one on the lot . So some of the Dealer are making them up witch to me is just Evil ! My Dealer At West Broad Hyundai in Richmond is Guarenteeing not to do that. The Dealer in Walthual is marking up 2&3k . Just plain wrong by people are still getting them . May be my problem with my Service. But where i got mine is 45 miles away and this one is 6 miles . And they sold the truck we were test driving right out from under us before we even got back. A white platinum. Sorry I went long just wanted you to know everything. Rusty in Chester Va.

[@warman25]

Thanks for the info for the SEL. It's hard to find info for just this trim its crazy. I appreciate you going in dept about the power of the motor as well. Knowing it's got the pep to go is all I needed to know.

[@padawanpanther468]

That was my intention. Your welcome!

[@xs8372]

I bought the exact one, same trim but in white and couldn’t be happier. Better equipped than the base SE but without all the unnecessary things of the higher trims. I agree the wheels on these are much better looking and more rugged in my opinion. The only thing I don’t love as much is the stereo sound but after several adjustments I got it so sound much better. I recommend turning off the noise cancellation setting, it improves the audio quality. One more thing I also wanted the non turbo version only because my car before this was a turbo and and had constant problems so I wanted to stay far away from that.

[@MsSSnow]

Thank you. I too got the SEL but I did opt in for the activity package. Simply to be able to lock up my stuff in back. Cant tell you how many times in my life I heard people talk about someone stole their tools out of the back. Mine came with side steps that I am still trying to get used to. I did get the same color as yours. Only had mine for a month and one week so far.

[@wrench8149]

To comment on the power of the naturally aspirated 2.5L: one of our family cars is a 2021 Kia Sorento which also has the traditional 8 speed and from what I can tell shares the same engine as the Hyundai’s 2.5L’s in the Santa Cruz (and other vehicles). If that’s true, I think the following may be helpful to some. We went on vacation to the smokey mountains of Tennessee and the drive on the interstate there was phenomenal. Easy driving experience and great fuel economy in the flat fly over states. But when it gets hilly and you’re fully loaded with family and gear climbing some of those hills it was dropping a gear or two and ringing it out a bit. On some of the downhills I was having to lock it in lower gears to help use the engine to slow us down. Now, it was absolutely acceptable, at no point was I starving for power or felt like we wouldn’t make it to the top at speed if you’re willing to rev it up. But I think if a v6 was available or perhaps the turbo would be better for a vehicle that size if you lived in those hilly/mountainous areas and had to drive them all the time. Knowing that, I am still considering downsizing from my full size to the base Santa Cruz + hitch and Awd (which is what brought me to this video). I think it’s a great setup for most people who know what they need and know their driving conditions.

[@NvaderRetro]

Just another opinion from an owner of a 2.5l AWD. I think its horribly under powered for a 30k+ vehicle. Not expecting a racecar but something like a 9+ second 0-60 is sluggish. I had a Jeep Renegade with similar numbers on paper that felt a lot more peppy. I may be selling mine to carmax and looking for a turbo honestly. Otherwise I really like the vehicle. With that said the sluggishness may actually be coming from the way they tuned the response curve on the throttle to pedal ratio.

[@TommyG11814]

I just bought a 2023 SEL,and love it. Your review was very helpful.

[@rkerver3]

Nice review! Good to see a lower trim since most reviews are of the higher trims. Ordered an awd SE. Looking forward to it!

[@DirtCraftMTB]

Thanks for your effort putting this together.... It's EXACTLY the video missing from all the major car channels.

[@kingskafa]

Ive been watching santa cruz videos for a week and this is the first time I’ve heard about the locking gas cap

[@rtmdlawncare5774]

Got my 2023 today. Same package SEL with AWD. Khaki grey. I added the he’s y duty 7pun towing package for it ($900 includes brake controller and dealer install) and bed extender $399

[@Drizztblades]

Yes I agree with most comments finally a real world review that's it the most expensive trim level. It was well done review. Good job if you make another review I would definitely watch it.

[@dougbiagi220]

Ive been researching the Santa Cruz and The Ford Maverick. I really appreciate the honesty of the review and it pushed more in the Hyundai direction, so thank you!

[@serenitynow6232]

I also saw a lots of complain about the turbo that it jerks around, lag, etc. I like this video as almost all videos that I saw is limited edition or SEL premium. I also agree with you with the piano black center command, but even worst if you have limited. They made everything touch screen and no radial dial which makes the limited version center command feels cheap. The retractable cover I felt was needed in my opinion and looks classy, but like you said it takes away space of your 4 feet space.

[@stephenswarts5616]

Thanks for the review. Good job and good information! Glad the engine works for you!

[@padawanpanther468]

Thank you!

[@442jetmech]

Great review. Hearing about real people issues like knee/ corner discomfort make this so helpful.

[@Bigboy4018]

I've had my SEL Premium AWD for about three weeks now and LOVE it. Like you, I could find very little about base 2.5 engine. Thanks for your input on that. I will say that the 2.5 turbo has GREAT power!! We took a trip to Orlando a week after I got it and over the course of the entire trip (1110 miles) the average mpg were 27.8 with the highest recorded of 31.3. VERY comfortable ride. The lane keeping/st3eering assist is much more refined than it was in the 2019 Tucson we traded in on it. I actually liked it, especially on the interstate. Hope you enjoy yours as much as we are enjoying ours.

[@jayrod2821]

Is yours AWD or fwd

[@Bigboy4018]

@@jayrod2821 AWD, 2.5 turbo. Great combination.

[@NvaderRetro]

I have the base 2.5l, personally I think it's unacceptably under powered to the point where I am thinking about selling to carmax and tracking down a premium. I'm not expecting a race car, but for over 30k, a 9 second+ 0-60 is insanely slow in 2022.

[@macsterguy]

Great review. I purchased a tray for the console from Amazon for $17. Fits to snug BUT is perfect other then that...

[@blairakana9984]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the four-cylinder engine without the turbo. I’m not the type to zip around and now I know that the four-cylinder engine without the turbo has enough power to accelerate on the highway or whatever I need it to do.

[@iJENx]

Thanks for the review! 🙌

[@dbsantanapr]

This is really helpful! I haven’t seen too many reviews by owners. Thanks!

[@hou5eFreak91]

This is exactly the review I’ve been looking for

[@shanemartin3173]

Our SEL comes next month. We got the Sage Grey. Thanks for your video.

[@seisamigos397]

Really appreciate an owners review especially about the turbo. I was wondering about that so thank you for the info!!

[@tonym.9186]

Thank you for doing a review on a sel model and not the top of the line with all the bells and whistles. Finally someone who owns a santa cruz doing a review. Thank you.

[@padawanpanther468]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@kenhoward3512]

It seems like Hyundai and the dealers (and publications like Car & Driver caring more about "fun" than ownership costs) are really pushing the much-more-expensive turbocharged trims.

[@phineashenshaw]

I also have this same trim level. I was looking at both the Maverick and the SC. Even though the SC is a step above a Maverick, the top trim is $10K+ more. I did not want to spend $45K. Was at a dealer looking at a Tuscon for my son and ran across a SC SEL/AWD for 30K. Test drove it, price was right, so I traded in my Jeep Renegade Trailhawk for it. Have not looked back. The NA 2.5L Engine is NOT under powered at all. It will not win a drag race. But it is still fast. The limitation seems to be more with the way the power-train is programmed than the engine itself. But remember, this is setup out of the box to tow things. The computer system is definitely setup to keep the drive-train from tearing itself up. But once you get it on the top end....fun fun!!! No problem topping this thing out. Can barely feel how fast you are going. I say the only reason to get a Turbo is if you are towing something big or you are a speed freak. I have motorcycles for speed...LOL Lastly, I like knobs. This trim has them. The Limited is all touch.

[@gwlane5509]

Hows it going with it? I had Mav on order now moved to 23 after 8mths of waiting...I always had concerns of the plastics scratching very easy and overall cheap build quality outside of the powertrain.... So...how do you like the SEL trim and how is the interior holding up? I like the look of the knobs and gauges....on the SEL.

[@phineashenshaw]

@@gwlane5509 For me, after 5K miles, I think I made the better choice. Not bashing the Maverick at all. My Landlord got a Lariat and it is a great truck. The markups and the Ford dealers are the main reason I jumped ship. The Santa Cruz SEL AWD turned out to be a better value for me. Best of all, you can get one. The paint job is decent. The seat are comfortable enough. I did a 1000 mile trip and the seat was fine. Not as good as my Santa Fe. But it will not hurt your back/behind. The only issue I have had is having to replace the windshield due to a rock falling off a dump truck. I really like it so far!!!

[@rafid7759]

Excellent review Andrew! Really professional and covered everything I was curious about. I too am in between the base with classic transmission versus turbo DCT. I do like the fact of having a torque converter when driving light service off road or snow conditions. Congratulations on your Santa Cruz. Look forward to seeing your adventures.

[@steveherman6126]

Thanks sooooooo much talking about the engine. You settled my mind, I don’t need a turbo.

[@padawanpanther468]

Glad I helped you. The turbo would be nice I’m sure but to me it’s just not necessary.

[@steveherman6126]

@@padawanpanther468 if your good I believe it. Thanks again

[@arseniov.7809]

Really wanting this Santa Cruz, so beautiful, I test drive it and my heart was won over, love the interior and that bed drain plug thing they got there. One thing I wished for was a hybrid version, just wanted better fuel efficiency. The maverick for me I don’t like those set trim levels, hate the light grey and oranges, they’re just ugly, wish there were some customization liberty to it

[@keithjeep2972]

They sell an aftermarket cover for the Hyundai Santa Cruz truck, but you have to silicone them on so they don’t make also the center consul that you have it does work. I have it.

[@chrismatheny4957]

I have been interested in hearing reviews of the SEL trim so thank you for yours. I have been tossing around the idea of possibly trading in my 2020 Sonata SEL Plus on a Santa Cruz someday. You make a good point about the entertainment system and the corner being where a person's knee might rest. That's something I will definitely have to look for in a test drive sometime. I was very curious about the power of the 2.5l naturally aspirated engine. With the 8spd I don't doubt it has enough power for general every day driving but I am curious if you get into some mountains how it would fare. If you have a chance to test that out sometime please let us know. Bummed to hear about the lack of adaptive cruise control (ACC). I love that feature on my Sonata and would miss it a lot. Good review!

[@padawanpanther468]

Chris I’m glad my review was helpful. I may do some more as it has been well received. Thinking of doing a 1500 mile review update. A mountain driving review might be a good idea too! I can give you a sneak peek… if your considering the Santa Cruz, I don’t think you would be disappointed 😁

[@Jason-oy2oh]

After test driving the non turbo, I would not want it for mountain driving or carrying lots of people or cargo. Revs really high and is loud entering traffic or passing.

[@qiuruizhu2322]

@@Jason-oy2oh That also answered my question. My daily drive is a Mazda CX5 with a 2.5 turbo engine. I live in a mountainous area and have always wanted a small pickup. I was thinking about whether I should trade the 2.5 turbo CX5 for the 2.5 NA Santa Cruz.

[@dagwood8152]

Great video, I'm glad finally someone came out with this review, I'm like you, I don't need all that stuff, keep it up

[@georgebushsr.8768]

Awesome. Buying mine next Spring. Have an Elantra, love it. Love the piano black on the inside.

[@AugustusMcMillan]

thanks for this. as you stated not many vids on the base model. im getting this bcuz its an extra vehicle for us. as you we dont haul or work construction. but my lady stays buying furniture. buying stuff for the house. thrifting. antiquing etc. and the lease price on these is great.

[@JCraftvfx]

I bought mine about a month ago, I like it over all. A few things though that I'm not overly fond of, I wish it had better gas millage. Also the little port window in the back, I dont nessarly need that and wouldve been better with a solid, pane of glass for better visability. and the seat headboards too, if they were maybe lower or could be removed for better visabliity.

[@ianm1995]

Thanks for the review! Very helpful as many other reviews are premium of adventure package

[@gaho91]

Very helpful video! Thank you for posting it

[@pdbordelon]

Great review - I love this thing. I play music in a band and this is perfect to carry a small PA and guitar equipment. VERY cool. Some say the inside is a bit "loud" at speed but all of that is relavant, a non-issue!

[@BIGTENFanatic]

I’ve owned one for just over a month now. I really love it! Had to drive 3 hours to find one

[@yevettecalloway8631]

Thanks for sharing this information, I thought they all came with a cover on the bed !!! I'm glad you mentioned that.👌

[@kenhoward3512]

I would prefer the relative simplicity of this non-turbocharged engine and conventional automatic transmission. If intending to buy (rather than lease) and keep the vehicle for many years, the turbo and DCT may turn into big liabilities when it comes to maintenance and repair costs (even with the "warranty"). I like the smaller wheels with taller tires, too, of the lower trim levels.

[@sherittawashington4636]

U did good. And thanks for the base model review. Becuz u are so correct it's not many reviews on this model. And I don't need all the bells and whistles either. Thank u. I have one in this color on the way to me.....

[@aaron.s.robinson]

One thing to note that doesn’t make sense is there is a light on the back window that comes on when you open that trunk space. ..problem is the trunk lid itself blocks the light so it’s useless. It would make more sense to come on when the tailgate came down. Or if there was a switch for it.

[@garygroundpounder7817]

Nice to watch a video from a real owner rather than the professional reviewers. How are the headlights in foggy conditions. Fog lights are not an option due to the headlight placement.

[@Chris-kw4jw]

Would love to see a nighttime impressions follow up, haven't seen the lower trim lighting inside and out yet.

[@padawanpanther468]

I just took a new video just for you! I will post it in a sec. Stay tuned!

[@KantizEQC]

thanks for the review Andrew. very well done.

[@smallnuts2]

I would get one in a heart beat if, they made a small popup camper that could fit it. Have bed over cab. Stove,and dinette in the bed.

[@billyraibourn758]

Nice Andrew. I have the SEL with AWD in Hampton Gray and love it. Andrew if you do make any more videos make one on the radio, thanks

[@realyntan3159]

thank you for reviewing! thinking of getting this

[@MsSSnow]

Funny little thing regarding the power of just the reg four banger without the turbo. When I was taking it on the test drive with the dealer I was going around the corner making a right and gave it gas a little to hard and it lurched forward so fast is startled me. I said woahhh and looked at the dealer and we both laughed. I didnt expect the power it had.

[@keekim775]

I got the tray and it works great worth getting it for $15 bucks.

[@KingDavidinPhoenix]

I’m about to buy one of these, I think. I’m waiting on one to arrive at a Phoenix AZ area dealership. A while SEL like this one, with the activity package. The dealer is wanting a $1000 non refundable deposit to hold this vehicle, which I’m reluctant to fork over in case there’s a problem. But I am impressed with the vehicle after driving it. The one inbound, like this one, has the non turbo model.

[@justinneese4449]

THANK YOU SOO MUCH! I was looking for thoughts on the turbo vs. non-turbo. (as far as rails and such. most everything that is available as a factory option will be easily installed, and Usually available on E-bay (for a reasonable price) after the 1st model year or so.)

[@vitomorolla5932]

Great review. Your a natural. Question: Did you consider AWD? and why not? Thank you sir.

[@jkparkww]

It looks so cool! Actually I still wonder which one is better, Santa Cruz or Maverick. It's very hard to chose one so your video is really helpful, thanks!

[@hdwatt]

Great review we got a ice white one coming in within the next couple weeks

[@rayrussell6258]

You didn't like the tonneau cover because it used "valuable real estate". Well, the tray in the deep storage space in the console is wasting valuable real estate, too. There are plenty of other storage spots to be used for those small items you would put in the tray. I have a tray there in my Ford Edge, and it's such a big annoyance; having to take it out and put it back in, to get anything out of or put things into the deep storage area, while also holding the armrest up with the tray in one hand, and the object in the other hand. I love the gloss black trim in the interior. Blandness and monotony is what you have left, without the gloss pieces. It isn't that big a deal to wipe things off occasionally. In fact, I keep excess fast food napkins in the console, to use for occasional spills and dusting. I agree with you on the turbo. Turbos are problematic, for every make, model and brand vehicle on the road. They are prone to needing repair far earlier than non-turbo motors. They are a cash-cow for dealers, that most people are better off leaving on the dealer's lot and ordering a non-turbo model. The sales results are in. Maverick moved 94,058 examples in 2023. By comparison, the Hyundai Santa Cruz lagged behind with merely 36,675 deliveries to its name. Maverick sales were held back by supply chain issues, and otherwise would have had higher sales.

[@Skunked68]

Very wise dad, no turbo for 16 YO son. Maybe not even 22. I recall lack of foresight and am thankful for angels on fenders. My Outback standard engine, I call it “adequate” acceleration. Not slow nor fast. This SC must be at least adequate. Good point on dash point in knee.

[@CC-kr2fs]

well done, answered a lot of questions for me. do you have the all wheel drive option?

[@Tennindo]

Thank you so much. This was really helpful. I really want this trim myself cause I also dont need the other bells. I myself personally have wanted a truck and as of the market right now this truck seems to be the best I personally can afford. The one I found is listed at 30K So thank you for the video. Hopfully I can get one

[@dcasandman]

I got SEL with accessories package really like the vehicle so far. I do hate piano black interiors. Manufacturers need to get rid of it.

[@gwlane5509]

Hows it going with it? I had Mav on order now moved to 23 after 8mths of waiting...I always had concerns of the Maverick plastics scratching very easy and overall cheap build quality outside of the powertrain.... So...how do you like the SEL trim and how is the interior holding up? I like the look of the knobs and gauges....on the SEL.

[@dcasandman]

@@gwlane5509 so far 12k miles. Works just fine. Nothing exciting, but works.

[@chuckwalters4759]

Great review!

[@toddrodenkirch1909]

Nice video I'm a little late. I've been waiting 5 months for a Maverick now I decided to buy Santa Cruz instead. Like you did not want to spend the extra money for the turbo and also didn't want the CVT transmission. Have a focus and had many troubles with it in the beginning. I liked your ideas about the engine. Don't need a speed demon and I appreciate the good things you said about it should get mine today or tomorrow looking forward to it thanks again for the good video

[@gwlane5509]

How do you like it....I just received an email basically telling me my 22 Mav won't be built...but I'll have to reorder as 23...so more waiting. I'm now seriously considering SC or Ridgeline...but the Honda is soooo much more $$. How do you like the SEL trim....how about MPG and overall feel now... >?

[@toddrodenkirch1909]

@@gwlane5509 I love the truck it drives like a nice car. I don't have the turbo but there's plenty of power for me. I'm getting 30 plus miles to the gallon with it a little less in the city. Overall I think it might be a better vehicle than a Maverick quiet ride and

[@toddrodenkirch1909]

I got the activity package with and it's great sunroof,tonneau cover etc. Not disappointed at all. Got it at MSRP told price of around $36,000 with tax.

[@staciecarverd8136]

Great to hear from someone without the 2.5L Turbo. None of the early release models reviewed covered this engine's performance, and it's great to hear from an actual owner. I've had slow cars, I've had quick trucks , too. I'm looking for better mileage than my current Ram, and I don't need a full-sized truck either. Heck, I'd probably get by fine with another SUV, but want the open bed for those few items which at taller than the hatch opening, or might make you wish you could hose your vehicle out after transporting. The Hyundai has me with the original concept, but found the actually model not as interesting at first. I almost pre-ordered a Maverick, too, but didn't want to wait who knows how long to actually receive it. Hyundai actually has these at the dealers, and it looks pretty good, without being overly boxy. Now it's a toss up between the Santa Cruz and new Tucson. ....the front end has grown on me.

[@uni4rm]

The MPG on these is pretty bad for a modern vehicle, and about half of that when towing.

[@eliseriley5084]

Thank you good review helped. I will be getting one

[@bryancabott8368]

Your right about the engine because on tfloffroad they talked about how the turbo has a different setup with cvt or something and just couldn't make it up a hill but highly believe the non turbo will do to not having it but watch the vid I could be wrong also k&n are making drop in air filters for it to give you a little more hp mpg! Nice review.

[@uni4rm]

No Santa Cruz uses a CVT.

[@richardkusimenkah]

I wish this was available in Canada, we start off with the preferred and ultimate which start at mrsp of 41000 cad which is alot pricier compared to you lucky folks in the us. Just like you, I don't need turbo or any of that stuff, just enough to get to work and home errand runs and the odd lumber/garden haul.

[@mp0270]

Thanks Andrew for the review. Just wondering if you were able to find out about adding side rails yet?

[@10tenman10]

My understanding is that the non turbo uses a conventional transmission, another plus (more reliable).

[@michaels3003]

Well done Andrew. Thank you.

[@TrzCharlie]

Great review. I was on the fence about turbo. I think I agree with you instead. Thanks,

[@1976axerhand]

If the turbo came with a normal 8 speed transmission not the dct trans I would go turbo,but that dct trans will be highly expensive to fix or replace

[@Passions]

The gas cap door not releasing while locked is also a feature on my 2015 Audi A3.

[@huntersly1997]

This is also my first hyundai. But for the gas cap that locks. I've had cars since 2014 that the cap locks I also don't have the issue with my legs hitting the screen but I also don't drive with my legs sideways and so close I use my whole leg to drive. So maybe that's why? And as for the microfiber that's a HUGEEEEE NONO microfibers are great to clean with when they are wet however when they are dry dragging it across anything that is high gloss piano black will start scratching... try something felt it will not scratch

[@mp0270]

Thanks Andrew for your review. Just wondering if you have found out yet if you can add side rails ?

[@slchang01]

Thanks for the info...Now you have done some research on this model and trims, and probably compared the MSRP for different trims, I wonder if you think this SEL is worth the price compared to the base trim, SE? You know, there are some frugal (or down to earth) folks around, who just need the basic transportation and utility truck, not the fancy options...I am one of them, of course. and will add things when I see fits, though. Thanks...

[@javierortiz5657]

Thanks for the review! Do you have any updates since this video?

[@larryrowe5259]

Looks like the silver trim on the steering wheel mimics the silver trim on the wheels.

[@indysteve4969]

This is exactly the review I was looking for, thank you! Does this trim have XM radio?

[@padawanpanther468]

Yes!

[@johnyates6371]

Thanks Andrew, good job. I know that the Subaru Baja and the Honda Ridgeline had caps and cross bars available aftermarket, is the Santa Cruz too new for this yet? The tonneau cover would be useless to me, I will need to strap an orchard ladder over the top while still keeping accessible tools in the bed, thanks.

[@noelv1976]

Good review. What's your gas mileage? Can you get to 300 miles before refilling?

[@TommyG11814]

Great vehicle, I like it , and very good video.

[@philmarmanillo1354]

Did you try to fit tools into trap door compartment like a circular saw, tool box, chainsaw? Show us what fits into it. PUT A TWO BY FOUR BY EIGHT IN IT. Does rear seat fold down. IS REAR SEAT OPENED TO BACK.? Can adults fit comfortibly into back ? What can it tow? We know it looks great. This a pickup truck afterall Can it do work at all?

[@kalyanchandra3656]

Great review . Can you share real world fuel economy numbers ?

[@brianmiller5868]

Thanks!! I was wondering about that engine. How has it been 6 months in? Any issues?