The 2024 Santa Cruz XRT: A Rugged Upgrade with Enhanced Features

The 2024 Santa Cruz XRT
Hyundai is introducing a fresh trim option for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz. The automaker has decided to replace the SEL Premium grade with the stylish and rugged XRT trim. This addition has already been incorporated into other Hyundai models, such as the Palisade, Santa Fe, and Tucson.
For the 2024 Santa Cruz XRT, notable enhancements have been made to the exterior design. This includes the addition of new fender flares, side steps, bed rails, and lower door garnishes, all of which contribute to its rugged appeal. To further distinguish the XRT trim, the automaker has incorporated exclusive orange wheel center caps, black door handles, mirror caps, and an XRT tailgate emblem. The truck’s visual upgrade is completed with dark chrome grille and tailgate handle trim, matte black “Santa Cruz” tailgate lettering, as well as dark front and rear fascias. These modifications give the 2024 Santa Cruz XRT a striking and distinctive appearance.
Positioned below the Santa Cruz Limited in the lineup, the new Santa Cruz XRT builds upon the SEL with Activity Package. Stepping inside the truck, one will find black H-Tex seats that exude a sleek and modern aesthetic. The interior is further enhanced with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, adding a touch of luxury to the driving experience. Additionally, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror has been included for added convenience and improved visibility.
The Santa Cruz XRT is equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, providing ample truck power. Working in conjunction with the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, featuring paddle shifters, and Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel-drive system, the XRT delivers a dynamic and engaging driving experience. The engine boasts an impressive output of 281 horsepower and generates a torque of 311 pound-feet, ensuring robust performance and capability on various terrains.
Continuing into 2024, the Santa Cruz will maintain its color palette from the previous year, offering a selection of six colors: Sage Gray (which had a $450 upgrade in 2023), Phantom Black, Blue Stone, Atlas White, Hampton Gray, and California Sand. Notably, all 2024 Santa Cruz models will come equipped with LED projector headlights as a standard feature. Additionally, the SEL trim level and higher will include dual-zone automatic temperature control and an auto defogger, enhancing the overall comfort and convenience of the vehicle.
Hyundai also has implemented steering wheel haptic feedback across all trims, enhancing the functionality of the lane-keep assist and blind-spot collision-avoidance assist systems. This feature ensures that drivers receive tactile alerts and feedback through the steering wheel, promoting safer and more intuitive driving. On top of this, the manufacturer has included navigation as a standard feature on the SEL trim with the Activity Package grade and higher.
Hyundai has yet to disclose the pricing details for the 2024 Santa Cruz; however, it is anticipated that there might be a slight price increase compared to previous models. The outgoing 2023 SEL Premium, which will be succeeded by the XRT trim, starts at $38,935, (plus destination fee). On the other hand, the 2023 Santa Cruz Limited is priced at $41,905 (plus destination fee). It’s worth noting that the XRT trim is also available in other Hyundai models, with the most recent addition being the Palisade lineup. As soon as the company releases the pricing information for the 2024 Santa Cruz, customers will have a clearer understanding of the cost implications.
Southern Team Hyundai
When the time comes to purchase the 2024 Santa Cruz XRT, be sure to do it at Southern Team Hyundai. We carry an extensive range of vehicles from the brand in several different styles and trims. Simply view our online new car inventory and chat with one of our representatives for more information.