2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Towing Capacity: Compact Power for Adventure

Overview

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz is a unique player in the compact pickup truck segment, blending the versatility of a pickup with the refined ride and handling of a compact SUV. Marketed as a “Sport Adventure Vehicle,” the Santa Cruz is built on the same unibody platform as the Hyundai Tucson, offering a car-like driving experience with practical towing and hauling capabilities. With a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, it matches competitors like the Honda Ridgeline and Ford Maverick in towing prowess while offering superior maneuverability and fuel efficiency. Ideal for weekend warriors, urban adventurers, and light-duty work, the Santa Cruz is perfect for towing small trailers, boats, or recreational gear. This blog post dives into the Santa Cruz’s towing capacities, features, and real-world insights to help you decide if it’s the right vehicle for your towing needs.

Towing Capacity by Configuration

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz’s towing capacity varies by trim, engine, drivetrain, and whether a towing package is equipped. Available in five trims—SE, SEL, SEL Activity, XRT, and Limited—the Santa Cruz offers two engine options and front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds is achieved with the turbocharged 2.5L engine, AWD, and a towing package that includes trailer brakes and a tow hitch. Without trailer brakes, towing capacity drops to 1,650 pounds across all trims. Below is a breakdown of towing capacities by configuration:

Trim	Engine	Drivetrain	Max Towing Capacity (lbs)	Notes
SE	2.5L I4 (191 hp, 181 lb-ft)	FWD/AWD	3,500	Requires trailer brakes; suitable for lightweight trailers
SEL	2.5L I4 (191 hp, 181 lb-ft)	FWD/AWD	3,500	Same as SE; AWD optional for improved traction
SEL Activity	2.5L I4 (191 hp, 181 lb-ft)	FWD/AWD	3,500	AWD and towing package recommended for stability
XRT	2.5L Turbo I4 (281 hp, 311 lb-ft)	AWD	5,000	Requires trailer brakes and tow hitch; max capacity with towing package
Limited	2.5L Turbo I4 (281 hp, 311 lb-ft)	AWD	5,000	Same as XRT; includes advanced towing tech

The Santa Cruz’s 5,000-pound towing capacity with the turbo engine and AWD makes it ideal for mid-size campers, small boats, or multiple ATVs, while the base engine suits lighter loads like jet skis or pop-up campers. Always consult Hyundai’s official towing guide for precise capacities based on your configuration.

What Affects Towing Capacity?

Several factors contribute to the Santa Cruz’s towing performance, ensuring it balances capability with everyday usability.

• Engine Specs: The Santa Cruz offers two engines:
  • 2.5L Inline-4: Produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, adequate for light towing up to 3,500 pounds. It’s standard on SE, SEL, and SEL Activity trims.
  • 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4: Delivers 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, enabling the 5,000-pound towing capacity. It’s standard on XRT and Limited trims, offering robust low-end torque for heavier loads.
• Transmission and Axle Ratio: The base engine pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC, while the turbo engine uses an 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT) with paddle shifters for quicker, more responsive shifts. The Santa Cruz’s axle ratios are optimized for its unibody platform, prioritizing efficiency and handling over heavy-duty towing. The DCT enhances towing performance by maintaining power delivery under load.
• Towing Package and Tow Mode: The optional towing package, including a transmission oil cooler, upgraded radiator, and trailer brake compatibility, is essential for achieving the 5,000-pound rating. The standard Tow Mode adjusts shift patterns and engine response based on trailer weight (Heavy, Medium, or Light settings), improving control and efficiency. To activate, press the Tow Mode button on the dashboard.
• Suspension, Chassis, and Braking System: The Santa Cruz’s unibody construction and fully independent suspension (multi-link rear) provide a smooth, SUV-like ride but limit towing compared to body-on-frame trucks. The high-strength steel chassis ensures stability, though the softer suspension may sag with heavy loads. Trailer brakes are required for loads over 1,650 pounds, and the available integrated trailer brake controller enhances stopping power.
• Smart Towing Technologies: The Santa Cruz is equipped with advanced towing aids:
  • Trailer Sway Control: Automatically applies brakes to individual wheels to stabilize trailers in windy conditions or during sudden maneuvers.
  • Hill-Start Assist: Prevents rollback on inclines when towing.
  • Downhill Brake Control: Maintains controlled speed on steep descents.
  • 360-Degree Camera (XRT, Limited): Aids in hitching and navigating tight spaces.
  • Blind-Spot View Monitor: Extends visibility to the trailer’s sides, enhancing safety.

These features make towing safer and more manageable, especially for recreational users.

Payload Capacity and Its Impact

Payload capacity is the maximum weight a vehicle can carry in its bed, including passengers, cargo, and the trailer’s tongue weight (typically 10-15% of the trailer’s weight). The 2025 Santa Cruz’s payload capacity ranges from approximately 1,411 to 1,753 pounds, depending on the trim and drivetrain:

• SE (FWD/AWD): Up to 1,753 pounds / 1,609 pounds.
• SEL (FWD/AWD): Up to 1,521 pounds / 1,609 pounds.
• SEL Activity (FWD/AWD): Up to 1,521 pounds / 1,609 pounds.
• XRT (AWD): Up to 1,609 pounds.
• Limited (AWD): Up to 1,609 pounds.

Payload affects towing because the tongue weight reduces available payload for other cargo. For example, towing a 5,000-pound trailer with a 15% tongue weight (750 pounds) leaves roughly 650–1,000 pounds for passengers and gear, depending on the trim. Exceeding payload limits can cause suspension sag, reduced handling, and safety risks. The Santa Cruz’s 4.3-foot bed with lockable in-bed storage and an adjustable tailgate enhances payload versatility, but careful weight distribution is crucial. Always verify the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) to avoid overloading.

Insights From the Web and Social Media

Real-world feedback from owners and experts highlights the Santa Cruz’s towing strengths and limitations:

• Real-World Towing: A MotorTrend year-long review of a 2022 Santa Cruz SEL Premium (turbo, AWD) noted it towed a 3,400-pound trailer comfortably, though a hitch was added aftermarket. Owners on SantaCruzForums.com report towing 3,000-pound trailers (e.g., pop-up campers) with the base engine but recommend staying below 3,000 pounds for comfort, especially in hilly terrain. One user stated, “My 2022 non-turbo AWD tows 2,500 pounds fine on flat roads, but hills strain it. I’d go turbo for anything over 3,000.”
• Expert Commentary: Car and Driver praises the turbocharged Santa Cruz’s 5,000-pound towing capacity, noting its “quick 6.0-second 0-60 mph sprint makes it feel lively even when loaded.” However, they caution that the base engine feels “sluggish” with heavy loads. Edmunds highlights the Santa Cruz’s SUV-like ride, stating, “It’s much better to drive than traditional trucks, but you’ll need an aftermarket brake controller for heavy towing.”
• X Insights: Posts on X commend the Santa Cruz’s towing tech, with one user noting, “The Trailer Sway Control and 360-degree camera make towing my 4,000-pound camper stress-free.” Another user cautioned, “Towing 5,000 pounds with the turbo is doable, but fuel economy tanks to 10-12 MPG.” Critics mention the lack of a factory-installed brake controller, requiring aftermarket solutions for heavy loads.
• Criticisms: Some owners report the soft suspension causes noticeable sag when towing near capacity, recommending weight-distributing hitches. Others note the base engine struggles in mountainous areas, making the turbo engine a better choice for frequent towing.

These insights suggest the Santa Cruz excels for light to moderate towing but may require careful planning for maximum loads or challenging terrains.

Best Configurations for Towing

Choosing the right Santa Cruz configuration depends on your towing needs:

• Light-Duty Towing (Under 3,500 lbs): The SE or SEL with the 2.5L base engine (191 hp, 181 lb-ft) and FWD or AWD is ideal for towing small trailers, jet skis, or pop-up campers. These trims tow up to 3,500 pounds with trailer brakes and a tow hitch. The standard 4-pin pre-wiring simplifies setup for light loads. For occasional towing, FWD offers better fuel efficiency (up to 30 MPG highway).
• Moderate Towing (3,500–5,000 lbs): Opt for the XRT or Limited with the 2.5L turbo engine (281 hp, 311 lb-ft), AWD, and the towing package to achieve the 5,000-pound capacity. These trims are best for mid-size campers, small boats, or multiple ATVs. The towing package, including a transmission oil cooler and Tow Mode, enhances performance, while AWD improves traction on uneven surfaces.
• Essential Towing Packages: The towing package (transmission oil cooler, upgraded radiator, trailer brake compatibility) is critical for 5,000-pound towing. A Class III tow hitch and 7-pin wiring harness are recommended for heavier loads. Aftermarket trailer brake controllers are necessary, as the Santa Cruz lacks a factory-installed option. The ProGrade Trailering System, including Trailer Sway Control and 360-degree cameras, is highly recommended for safety.
• Safety Tips:
  • Always verify towing and payload limits using Hyundai’s towing guide or owner’s manual.
  • Use a weight-distributing hitch and anti-sway bars for loads over 3,500 pounds to prevent sway and sag.
  • Avoid towing during the first 1,200 miles to allow engine break-in, as per Hyundai’s recommendation.
  • Drive at moderate speeds (under 60 mph) and check tire pressure, brakes, and load distribution regularly.
  • Plan for reduced fuel efficiency (10-12 MPG when towing heavy loads).

Conclusion

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz is a compelling choice in the compact pickup segment, offering a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds with its turbocharged engine and AWD, making it perfect for recreational towing like small campers, boats, or ATVs. Its SUV-like ride, advanced towing features like Trailer Sway Control and Tow Mode, and versatile 4.3-foot bed make it ideal for urban drivers, weekend adventurers, and families needing light to moderate towing capabilities. While it doesn’t match the heavy-duty towing of full-size trucks like the Ford F-150, its maneuverability, fuel efficiency (up to 30 MPG highway), and car-like handling set it apart from competitors like the Ford Maverick and Honda Ridgeline. For those seeking a stylish, practical vehicle for occasional towing and everyday use, the Santa Cruz delivers. Visit Antich Auto Eureka to test drive the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz and explore its towing prowess for your next adventure.

2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz: Bed Features, Payload & Towing Capacity

FAQ

Can the Santa Cruz really tow 5000 lbs?2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Towing Capacity

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz is the newest pickup on the market, and it’s taking on major competitors like the Honda Ridgeline. The Hyundai Santa Cruz can tow up to 5,000 pounds when it’s properly equipped with AWD and the available trailer brake system.

Is the Santa Cruz good for towing?When properly equipped with the available towing package, which includes a transmission oil cooler and upgraded radiator, the Santa Cruz can tow up to 5,000 pounds on AWD models.

Which Hyundai Santa Cruz has a towing package?Pure Power: Towing Capacity of Hyundai Santa Cruz

FWD is standard, but HTRAC AWD is available. This base-level powertrain can tow up to 5,000 pounds,¹ depending on the trim and configuration.

Reference
https://www.checkeredflaghyundaiworld.com/hyundai-research/hyundai-santa-cruz-towing-capacity/
https://www.caranddriver.com/hyundai/santa-cruz