Choosing between the 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 and the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz comes down to lifestyle. The IONIQ 9 represents Hyundai’s electric future: a spacious, three-row SUV offering quiet performance, advanced technology, and long-range efficiency. The Santa Cruz, on the other hand, blends SUV comfort with truck-like utility, delivering a balance of refinement and everyday practicality.
Both vehicles showcase Hyundai’s innovation in different ways. The IONIQ 9 is ideal for drivers who value clean energy, family comfort, and cutting-edge design. The Santa Cruz is perfect for those who want flexibility; something that handles weekday commutes as easily as weekend projects or outdoor adventures.
In this guide, we’ll compare how these two stand apart in performance, technology, design, and ownership experience, helping you decide which one fits your needs best.
Table of Contents
- Overview of the 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 and the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
- The 2026 IONIQ 9 – The Future of the Family SUV, Built in America
- The 2026 Santa Cruz – The Ultimate Sport Adventure Vehicle
- Power and Performance on the Road
- A Deep Dive into Trim Levels
- The Cabin Experience: Space for Families and Gear
- Technology, Connectivity, and Safety
- Everyday Practicality and Utility for Modern Life
- Value, Warranty, and Long-Term Ownership
- The Right Hyundai for You
Overview of the 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 and the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Hyundai's 2026 lineup showcases a brilliant strategy, offering two innovative but fundamentally different solutions to the modern driver's needs. One looks to the horizon, defining the future of family transport, while the other masterfully redefines the utility and comfort available today. This approach ensures that whether a customer is ready to lead the charge into an electric future or is seeking a more versatile version of the present, there is a forward-thinking Hyundai that fits perfectly.
The 2026 IONIQ 9 - The Family SUV, Built in America
The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 arrives as the brand's flagship three-row electric SUV, a statement vehicle designed to compete in the premium segment against formidable rivals like the Kia EV9 and Rivian R1S. It embodies the pinnacle of Hyundai's advanced electrification strategy, promising an unparalleled combination of exceptional range, a luxuriously spacious interior for six or seven passengers, and an array of cutting-edge technology. For the modern Oklahoma family, the IONIQ 9 presents an ideal solution. It caters to those who value sustainability, forward-thinking technology, and the space to grow, all without sacrificing performance or sophisticated style. Assembled in the United States at Hyundai's state-of-the-art facility in Georgia, it also carries the distinction of being a domestically produced vision of the future.
The 2026 Santa Cruz - The Ultimate Sport Adventure Vehicle
In contrast, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz carves its own unique path. It is not a traditional pickup truck but rather a "Sport Adventure Vehicle," ingeniously merging the refined comfort and agile drivability of an SUV—built upon the proven Tucson platform—with the undeniable utility of a compact, open truck bed. This vehicle is a market-segment creator, solving a common dilemma for buyers who find traditional SUVs lack utility and full-size trucks are too cumbersome for daily life.
Its design focuses on urban-friendly dimensions, a versatile four-foot bed perfect for lifestyle gear like bicycles or camping equipment, and a comfortable, well-appointed cabin for up to five passengers. The Santa Cruz is the perfect automotive tool for Oklahomans with active lifestyles. It is equally at home with a homeowner in Yukon tackling weekend projects, an adventurer heading to explore the Wichita Mountains, or a city dweller who needs more flexibility than an SUV can offer without the compromises of a larger truck.
Power and Performance on Oklahoma's Roads
The philosophical differences between the IONIQ 9 and Santa Cruz are most apparent in their powertrains. One offers the silent, instantaneous rush of electric torque, while the other provides the familiar, responsive feel of refined gasoline power. A surprising point of parity is their maximum towing capacity, which levels the playing field on a key utility metric and shifts the decision toward the character of the performance one desires.
IONIQ 9
The IONIQ 9's all-electric powertrain portfolio is engineered to meet a wide spectrum of driving preferences. The lineup includes a standard-range Rear-Wheel-Drive (RWD) model producing 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, optimized for maximum efficiency. For those needing all-weather capability, a Long-Range All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) version offers a robust 303 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque.At the top of the range, the Performance AWD models unleash a staggering 422 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, capable of accelerating the three-row SUV from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 4.4 seconds—quicker than many dedicated sports cars.
Underpinning this performance is a massive 110.3 kWh battery pack and a state-of-the-art 800-volt electrical architecture. This advanced system enables ultra-fast DC charging, replenishing the battery from 10% to 80% in approximately 24 minutes under ideal conditions. For an Oklahoma family, this translates to remarkable convenience on road trips. A journey from Midwest City to Dallas would require only a single, brief 25-minute stop. Furthermore, the inclusion of a native NACS (Tesla) charging port provides access to the vast and reliable Supercharger network, a significant advantage for travel across Oklahoma and beyond.
Santa Cruz
The Santa Cruz offers two proven and efficient gasoline engine options. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, providing a reliable and economical choice for daily driving and commuting. For those who require more muscle for hauling or spirited driving, an available 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers a potent 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.
A significant update for the 2026 model year is the move from a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) to a conventional 8-speed automatic on turbocharged models. This strategic shift prioritizes smooth, refined operation, particularly in city traffic, and enhances the perception of long-term reliability for a broader range of buyers. The Santa Cruz is available with standard Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) for maximum efficiency or with Hyundai's capable HTRAC All-Wheel Drive (AWD), which provides superior traction and confidence for navigating Oklahoma's unpredictable weather, from sudden summer downpours to the occasional winter ice storm.
Powertrain and Performance at a Glance: 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 vs Santa Cruz
| Specification | 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain Type | All-Electric (BEV) | Gasoline (ICE) |
| Available Engines | Single Motor RWD / Dual Motor AWD | 2.5L 4-Cyl / 2.5L Turbo 4-Cyl |
| Horsepower | 215 hp (RWD) to 422 hp (Perf. AWD) | 191 hp to 281 hp |
| 0–60 MPH (est.) | 4.4 - 8.4 seconds | ~6.0 seconds (Turbo) / ~9.0 seconds (NA) |
| Max Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs | Up to 5,000 lbs |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Reduction Gear | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD | FWD or AWD |
A Deep Dive into Trim Levels
Choosing a model is only the first step; selecting the right trim level is where a vehicle is truly tailored to an owner's specific needs, priorities, and budget. Both the IONIQ 9 and Santa Cruz offer a logical progression of trims, allowing buyers to pinpoint the perfect combination of features, performance, and value.
Explore the Complete 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 Trim Lineup
The IONIQ 9 lineup spans from a highly efficient base model to a fully-loaded luxury performance vehicle, ensuring a fit for every type of premium EV buyer.
- S: As the range champion, the S trim is designed for the buyer who prioritizes maximizing miles per charge above all else, offering an impressive EPA-estimated 335 miles of range
- SE: This trim serves as the smart entry point into the all-wheel-drive lineup. It adds the confidence of HTRAC AWD and comfort features like a power-adjustable passenger seat, making it a well-balanced choice for Oklahoma's varied conditions
- SEL: Representing the sweet spot for many families, the SEL is the tech and comfort upgrade. It adds highly desirable features like premium H-Tex® seating surfaces, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and larger 20-inch alloy wheels
- Performance Limited: This is the gateway to high performance and true luxury. The formidable 422-horsepower dual-motor powertrain becomes standard here, along with an exclusive 6-passenger configuration with second-row captain's chairs, a Bose® premium audio system, and the innovative sliding Universal Island center console
- Performance Calligraphy: For the buyer seeking the ultimate technology and luxury statement, the Calligraphy trim adds exclusive features like a full-color Head-Up Display and the remarkable Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 system
- Performance Calligraphy Design: This flagship trim is for the style-conscious driver who desires exclusivity. It offers unique 21-inch turbine-style wheels, exclusive exterior styling, and special paint options like Gravity Gold Matte
2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 Trim Comparison
| Trim | Powertrain | Key Features | Perfect For… |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 215 hp RWD | 335-mile range, 19" wheels, 12.3" dual displays, 7-passenger seating, Hyundai SmartSense | The Efficiency-Focused Family |
| SE | 303 hp AWD | Adds HTRAC AWD, 320-mile range, Terrain Mode Select, Power passenger seat | Oklahoma Drivers Needing All-Weather Confidence |
| SEL | 303 hp AWD | Adds H-Tex® seats, Ventilated front seats, Heated steering wheel, 20" wheels, Surround View Monitor | The Comfort and Tech-Oriented Buyer |
| Limited | 422 hp AWD | Adds High-output motor, 6-passenger captain's chairs, Bose® audio, Sliding center console, Panoramic sunroof | The Performance Enthusiast with a Family |
| Calligraphy | 422 hp AWD | Adds Head-Up Display, Remote Smart Parking Assist 2, Premium materials, Digital rearview mirror | The Tech-Laden Luxury Seeker |
| Calligraphy Design | 422 hp AWD | Adds 21" turbine wheels, Exclusive exterior styling & matte paint options, Dynamic Welcome Light | The Style-Conscious Driver Wanting Exclusivity |
Choosing Your 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
The Santa Cruz trim walk progresses from a practical and well-equipped base model to a rugged and luxurious adventure vehicle. A key distinction in its lineup is the significant powertrain upgrade that occurs at the XRT level.
- SE: The SE is the well-equipped workhorse of the lineup. It impresses with standard technology that includes a large 12.3-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration.
- SEL: This trim adds a layer of comfort and convenience with popular features like heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and Proximity Key with push-button start.
- SEL Activity: A pivotal trim for those focused on utility, the SEL Activity package adds a factory-integrated tonneau cover, LED bed lighting, a sunroof, and a wireless charging pad, making the cargo bed significantly more practical for everyday use.
- XRT: The XRT marks a major turning point in the lineup, establishing a rugged, adventurous persona. It makes the powerful 281-hp turbocharged engine and HTRAC AWD standard. It also adds exclusive styling, all-terrain tires, and advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control.
- Limited: This is the fully-loaded alternative to a conventional truck. It combines the XRT's potent powertrain with premium luxury features, including leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a Bose® premium audio system, and stylish 20-inch wheels.
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Trim Comparison
| Trim | Powertrain | Key Features | Perfect For... |
|---|---|---|---|
| SE | 191 hp FWD/AWD | 12.3" touchscreen, Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, Hyundai SmartSense, 18" wheels | The Value-Driven Buyer Needing Basic Utility |
| SEL | 191 hp FWD/AWD | Adds Heated front seats, Power driver's seat, Proximity Key, Bluelink® | The Daily Driver Wanting More Comfort |
| SEL Activity | 191 hp FWD/AWD | Adds Tonneau cover, LED bed lighting, Sunroof, Wireless charging, Digital instrument cluster | The Practical User Maximizing Utility |
| XRT | 281 hp Turbo AWD | Adds Turbo engine & AWD, All-terrain tires, Unique rugged styling, Navigation, Adaptive Cruise Control | The Adventure Seeker Needing Power & Style |
| Limited | 281 hp Turbo AWD | Adds Leather upholstery, Ventilated front seats, Bose® audio, 20" wheels, 360-degree camera | The Buyer Wanting a Fully-Loaded, Compact Truck |
The Cabin: Space for Families and Gear
The interior of a vehicle is where life happens, and the IONIQ 9 and Santa Cruz are designed around two different sets of priorities. The IONIQ 9 is conceived as a spacious, mobile lounge focused on passenger comfort, while the Santa Cruz acts as a durable command center for adventure, prioritizing practicality and clever storage.
The IONIQ 9 offers a cavernous cabin with a passenger volume of approximately 163.5 cubic feet, configurable for either six or seven occupants. Legroom is generous in all three rows, with up to 42.8 inches for the second row and a remarkable 32 inches for the third, making it comfortable for adults on longer journeys. Premium materials abound, from stain-resistant cloth on entry trims to luxurious H-Tex® surfaces, ambient lighting, and available first- and second-row Relaxation Seats with massage functions on upper trims. For a family from Norman heading to an OU football game, the IONIQ 9's seating capacity means you can bring friends along in comfort.
The Santa Cruz provides a comfortable and well-designed cabin for five passengers, with a total passenger volume of around 102-104 cubic feet. Rear legroom measures a respectable 36.5 inches, suitable for children and adults on most trips. The interior materials are chosen for durability and ease of maintenance, ranging from stain-resistant cloth to practical leatherette and premium leather on the Limited trim. For the couple picking up supplies from a local garden center, the Santa Cruz's durable interior is easy to clean and built to withstand an active lifestyle.
Interior Dimensions and Comfort: 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 vs Santa Cruz
| Specification | 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 6 or 7 | 5 |
| Passenger Volume | ~163.5 cu. ft. | ~104 cu. ft. |
| 2nd-Row Legroom | up to 42.8 in. | 36.5 in. |
| 3rd-Row Legroom | 32.0 in. | N/A |
| Cargo Space | 21.9 cu. ft. (behind 3rd row) / 86.9 cu. ft. (max) | 27.0 cu. ft. (open bed) |
| Key Upholstery | Stain-resistant cloth, H-Tex®, Leather | Stain-resistant cloth, Leatherette, Leather |
Technology, Connectivity, and Safety
Hyundai has built its reputation on offering a high level of standard safety and technology, and both the IONIQ 9 and Santa Cruz benefit from this philosophy. While both vehicles receive a comprehensive suite of features, the IONIQ 9 serves as the showcase for Hyundai's next- generation systems, giving buyers a clear choice based on how much they value being on the absolute cutting edge.
Both models offer large, user-friendly touchscreens with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. The IONIQ 9, however, standardizes a stunning panoramic curved display that seamlessly integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The Santa Cruz features a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, with the dual-screen setup reserved for higher trims. The IONIQ 9 also boasts more advanced convenience technologies, including the available Digital Key 2 (allowing your smartphone to act as a key), Remote Smart Parking Assist 2, and a full-color Head-Up Display.
On the safety front, both vehicles come standard with the robust Hyundai SmartSense suite, which includes essentials like Forward Collision- Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA). This establishes a high safety floor across the board. The IONIQ 9, as the flagship, receives the most advanced versions of these systems, such as FCA 2, which offers more precision and capability. For Oklahoma drivers, features like Highway Driving Assist—available on both models—make the I-35 commute between Oklahoma City and Norman significantly safer and less stressful.
Tech and Safety Feature Comparison
| Feature | 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard Display | Dual 12.3-inch Curved Display (Standard) | 12.3-inch Touchscreen (Std) / Dual 12.3-inch (Opt) |
| Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard | Standard |
| Wireless Device Charging | Standard | Optional |
| Digital Key 2 | Optional | Optional (Digital Key 2 Touch) |
| Head-Up Display (HUD) | Optional | Not Available |
| Remote Smart Parking Assist | Optional (RSPA 2) | Not Available |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Standard | Optional |
| Blind-Spot View Monitor | Optional | Optional |
| Surround View Monitor | Optional | Optional |
Practicality and Utility for Oklahoma Life
This is where the core missions of the IONIQ 9 and Santa Cruz diverge most clearly, revealing their unique strengths. The IONIQ 9's utility is about providing immense, versatile, and secure interior space. Santa Cruz's utility is about offering the ultimate flexibility for messy, bulky, or tall items that have no place inside a cabin.
The IONIQ 9 functions as a massive, configurable container. With its third- and second-row seats folded, it opens up a cavernous 86.9 cubic feet of enclosed cargo space, perfect for securely hauling everything from luggage for a family vacation to valuable equipment for a small business. It also features a small front trunk, or "frunk," for additional storage. A groundbreaking feature is its bidirectional charging capability, known as Vehicle-to-Load (V2L). This allows the IONIQ 9 to function as a mobile power source, a feature that could be invaluable for powering essential appliances during one of Oklahoma's notorious power outages.
The Santa Cruz, meanwhile, is an open platform for adventure and work. Its 4-foot composite bed offers 27 cubic feet of volume, ideal for items that are too dirty or bulky for an SUV's interior. It is perfectly suited for hauling bags of mulch for a garden in Bethany, tossing muddy sports gear in the back after a game at a local park, or carrying tools for a DIY project. The bed's utility is enhanced by a lockable under-floor storage compartment and an available integrated tonneau cover that provides weather-resistant, secure storage. Critically, with the available turbocharged engine and AWD, the Santa Cruz matches the IONIQ 9's maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, forcing a decision based on the type of utility needed most often, not just raw numbers.
Utility and Practicality
| Utility Feature | 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Cargo Area | Enclosed Cabin | Open Pickup Bed |
| Max Cargo Volume | 86.9 cu. ft. (seats folded) | 27.0 cu. ft. (bed volume) |
| Maximum Towing | Up to 5,000 lbs | Up to 5,000 lbs |
| Maximum Payload | N/A | ~1,411 lbs |
| Special Utility Feature | Bidirectional Charging (V2L) | Lockable Bed & Under-Bed Storage |
Value, Warranty, and Long-Term Ownership
The financial aspect of purchasing a new vehicle extends far beyond the initial sticker price. It involves considering the total cost of ownership, including fuel, maintenance, and the peace of mind that comes with a great warranty. The IONIQ 9 commands a premium starting MSRP, from approximately $58,955 to $76,490, reflecting its status as a large, high-tech electric vehicle. However, this higher upfront investment is offset by significantly lower long-term operating costs. Electricity is substantially cheaper than gasoline, and with no engine oil, spark plugs, or complex transmission fluid to change, routine maintenance is simpler and less expensive.
The Santa Cruz offers a more accessible entry point, with MSRPs ranging from approximately $29,500 to $43,450. This makes it an excellent value proposition for buyers seeking utility and style. While its long-term costs will include gasoline and traditional engine maintenance, it remains a cost-effective choice in the compact truck segment.
Regardless of the model chosen, every new Hyundai is backed by America's Best Warranty. This includes a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty, providing unparalleled peace of mind for owners across the Oklahoma City metro region.
The Right Hyundai for You
The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 stands out as the superior choice for those pursuing the future of automotive technology. It is perfectly suited for the growing family in Edmond or Norman who prioritizes premium space, cutting-edge safety, and the quiet, powerful performance of an electric powertrain. If your daily life involves carpooling, family road trips, and a desire to eliminate trips to the gas station without compromising on luxury or capability, the IONIQ 9 is the vehicle for you.
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz is the best solution for those who live an active, hands-on lifestyle. It is the ideal partner for the resident of Yukon or Moore who frequently tackles DIY projects, needs the flexibility of an open bed for sports or outdoor gear, and wants a comfortable, capable vehicle that is easy to drive and park anywhere in the OKC metro. If your weekends are spent exploring, creating, and doing, Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of utility and comfort that no traditional SUV or truck can match.
The ultimate decision, however, is best made from behind the wheel. We invite you to visit Joe Cooper Hyundai of Midwest City to experience the IONIQ 9 and the Santa Cruz firsthand. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect Hyundai for your Oklahoma journey.