The compact pickup segment is transforming the way Oklahomans think about trucks, combining the practicality of a traditional pickup with the comfort, technology, and maneuverability of a modern SUV. Today’s drivers demand vehicles that can seamlessly handle daily commutes through Oklahoma City traffic, weekend road trips across the state, and recreational adventures, all without compromising style or efficiency.
Standing out in this competitive segment are two compelling options: the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz and the 2026 Ford Maverick. Each vehicle brings a unique approach to the challenges of modern driving, one emphasizing refined performance and SUV-like comfort, the other focusing on efficiency and utility. By examining key factors such as powertrain capabilities, interior technology, towing and cargo versatility, and long-term ownership value, we can determine which compact truck is best suited to meet the diverse needs of Oklahoma drivers.
Table of Contents
- Design & Dynamics
- Exterior Presence: 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz vs. 2026 Ford Maverick
- The 2026 Santa Cruz and the 2026 Maverick Engine and Performance
- The Modern Cabin, Design and Technology
- 2026 Santa Cruz and 2026 Maverick Cargo, Towing, and Utility
- 2026 Santa Fe and Maverick’s Warranty, Safety, and The Ownership Advantage
- The Smart Choice is the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Design & Dynamics For the 2026 Santa Cruz and 2026 Ford Maverick
The fundamental driving experience of any vehicle is dictated by its foundation. Here, the Santa Cruz and Maverick diverge, revealing core engineering philosophies that have profound real-world consequences for drivers navigating Oklahoma's diverse road conditions.
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz is built upon the same acclaimed unibody platform as the sophisticated Hyundai Tucson SUV.
This architecture is inherently designed to prioritize ride comfort, handling precision, and a quiet cabin, attributes often lacking in traditional trucks. The most critical element of this design is the standard inclusion of an independent multi-link rear suspension across every single trim level. This more complex and costly setup allows each rear wheel to react independently to bumps and imperfections in the road. The vehicle remains stable and planted, minimizing the jostling that can make long drives fatiguing, especially for passengers in the rear.
In contrast, the 2026 Ford Maverick, while also a unibody design, employs a less sophisticated independent twist-beam rear suspension on its standard front-wheel-drive models. This design is durable and cost-effective, making it suitable for handling heavy payloads. However, it compromises ride quality. Because the rear wheels are semi-connected, a bump on one side of the vehicle is more easily transferred to the other, resulting in a firmer, bouncier ride. The Santa Cruz delivers an SUV-like level of comfort that the Maverick, in its base configuration, simply cannot match. This reveals a fundamental choice by the engineers: Hyundai has prioritized the quality of the 95% of driving time spent commuting and cruising, while Ford has leaned toward the 5% of time a vehicle might be pushed to its maximum payload capacity.
Exterior Presence: 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz vs. 2026 Ford Maverick
First impressions matter, and the visual identities of the Santa Cruz and Maverick could not be more different. The Santa Cruz presents a bold, cohesive design that seamlessly blends ruggedness with modern sophistication. Its signature parametric grille, with LED lighting elements that appear hidden when turned off, creates a distinctive and futuristic face. The body lines are fluid and athletic, flowing from the muscular front fenders into the integrated cargo bed, giving it a dynamic stance. The body lines are fluid and athletic, flowing from the muscular front fenders into the integrated cargo bed, giving it a dynamic stance. Premium trims like the XRT and Limited further enhance this appeal with rugged accents like wider fender flares and elegant dark chrome trim, projecting an image of capable luxury.
The Maverick, by contrast, adopts a much more traditional, upright, and boxy pickup truck aesthetic. Its design is dictated primarily by the function of its rectangular bed, resulting in a look that is undeniably practical but lacks the integrated flair and modern character of the Santa Cruz. While this familiar shape will appeal to traditionalists, its utilitarian form feels less refined in urban and suburban settings. The Santa Cruz is a vehicle designed to make a statement about a lifestyle of adventure and style; the Maverick is a vehicle designed to look like a tool for work.
Engine & Performance Comparison
| Specification | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz | 2026 Ford Maverick |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 195.7 inches | 199.7 - 200.6 inches |
| Width (w/o mirrors) | 75.0 inches | 72.6 inches |
| Height | 66.7 inches | 68.5 - 69.4 inches |
| Bed Length (at floor) | 52.1 inches | 54.4 inches |
| Bed Volume | 27.0 cubic feet | 33.3 cubic feet |
The dimensional data reveal a key advantage for the Santa Cruz in the context of daily usability. While the Maverick's bed offers more raw cubic footage, the Santa Cruz is a full four to five inches shorter in overall length. This seemingly small difference has a significant impact on maneuverability, making it easier to navigate crowded parking lots or to fit into a tight garage. It reinforces Santa Cruz's positioning as the ideal "best of both worlds" vehicle, offering ample utility without the cumbersome footprint of a more traditional truck.
2026 Santa Cruz and the 2026 Maverick Engine and Performance
The powertrain is the heart of any vehicle, and the options offered by Hyundai and Ford reveal starkly different priorities. Ford has made fuel economy the Maverick's default identity by equipping it with a standard 2.5L full hybrid powertrain that produces a combined 191 horsepower and a modest 155 lb-ft of torque. While this setup delivers impressive city MPG figures, the performance trade-off is significant. Acceleration can feel sluggish, particularly when loaded with passengers or cargo, and the continuously variable transmission (CVT) provides a less engaging and sometimes droning driving experience.
Santa Cruz 2.5L Turbo
Hyundai takes a more balanced approach with the Santa Cruz. The standard 2.5L inline-four engine provides a respectable 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, offering solid, conventional performance that feels familiar and capable for daily driving. However, for those who demand true performance, Hyundai offers a commanding 2.5L turbocharged engine on the XRT and Limited trims. This powerhouse churns out an exhilarating 281 horsepower and a massive 311 lb-ft of torque, transforming the Santa Cruz into a genuinely quick and responsive vehicle. This is effortless power, providing the confidence to merge swiftly onto I-40 during rush hour or to execute a safe and decisive pass on a two-lane highway. The turbo engine is paired with a quick-shifting 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC paddle shifters, delivering a level of driver engagement the Maverick cannot replicate.
Maverick 2.0L EcoBoost
Even when comparing the Maverick's optional upgrade, the 2.0L EcoBoost engine, the Santa Cruz maintains a clear advantage. The Ford EcoBoost produces a healthy 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, but it still falls short of the Santa Cruz's turbocharged option by 31 horsepower and 34 lb-ft of torque. For drivers who value performance, the choice is unequivocal.
Drivetrain and All-Weather Confidence
Santa Cruz HTRAC AWD
The Santa Cruz offers Hyundai's advanced HTRAC All-Wheel Drive system, which is standard equipment on all turbocharged models, providing enhanced traction and stability when conditions deteriorate.
Maverick AWD System
Ford's strategy forces a difficult compromise upon the buyer. All-wheel drive is available on the Maverick, but it can only be paired with the less fuel-efficient 2.0L EcoBoost engine.
This means a customer must choose between the headline-grabbing fuel economy of the standard hybrid powertrain (and be stuck with front-wheel drive) or opt for the security of all-wheel drive and accept a significant penalty in fuel costs. The Santa Cruz provides a more cohesive package, where the most powerful engine is intelligently paired with the most capable drivetrain, ensuring that performance and all-weather confidence go hand-in-hand.
Engine and Performance Comparison
| Specification | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz (2.5L) | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz (2.5L Turbo) | 2026 Ford Maverick (2.5L Hybrid) | 2026 Ford Maverick (2.0L EcoBoost) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | Inline 4-Cylinder | Inline 4-Cylinder Turbo | Inline 4-Cylinder Hybrid | Inline 4-Cylinder Turbo |
| Horsepower | 191 hp @ 6,100 RPM | 281 hp @ 5,800 RPM | 191 hp (combined) | 250 hp @ 5,500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM | 311 lb-ft @ 1,700–4,000 RPM | 155 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM | 277 lb-ft @ 3,000 RPM |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Dual-Clutch Auto | CVT | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD (AWD Available) | AWD Standard | FWD (AWD Available) | AWD Standard |
This table crystallizes the performance narrative. The Santa Cruz 2.5T dominates in both horsepower and, crucially, torque, which is the force you feel during acceleration. Its massive 311 lb-ft of torque is available at a low 1,700 RPM, providing instant thrust that makes the vehicle feel powerful and agile in any driving situation.
The Modern Cabin, Design and Technology
Interior Volume and Seating
Stepping inside the 2026 Santa Cruz is like entering a premium crossover, not a conventional pickup. The cabin features a sophisticated, driver-centric cockpit with a "waterfall" center stack that flows seamlessly into the console. Material quality is a clear priority, with soft-touch surfaces, available leather-trimmed seating, and thoughtful details that create an upscale ambiance. It’s an environment designed for comfort on long drives, providing a quiet, refined space that isolates occupants from the noise and stress of the road.
The Maverick’s interior, in contrast, is defined by its utility. The design is straightforward and functional, but it relies heavily on hard, durable plastics. While this approach is practical for a work vehicle, it lacks the warmth, comfort, and premium feel of the Santa Cruz. The seats are less sculpted, the touchpoints feel less substantial, and the overall environment is more spartan. For a buyer using this vehicle as a daily driver and family hauler, the superior comfort and material quality of the Santa Cruz cabin represent a significant and consistently appreciated advantage.
Technology and Infotainment Suite
In an increasingly connected world, in-car technology is a critical battleground, and it is here that Santa Cruz establishes a commanding lead. While both vehicles offer large central touchscreens and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Hyundai goes much further by creating a more integrated and futuristic user experience.
The Santa Cruz is available with a stunning 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster that is configurable and provides crisp, clear navigation and vehicle information directly in the driver's line of sight. The Maverick makes do with a more basic hybrid of analog gauges and a smaller digital screen. More importantly, Hyundai offers class-exclusive technologies that signal a forward-thinking approach. Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch allows the owner to use their compatible smartphone or smartwatch as the vehicle key, eliminating the need to carry a bulky fob. Furthermore, Hyundai Pay is an in-vehicle payment system that allows drivers to pay for parking or gas at participating locations directly from the vehicle's touchscreen.
These are not mere gadgets; they are next-generation conveniences that streamline the ownership experience. Ford, while providing a large screen, offers a more traditional and siloed technology suite that feels a generation behind. For the tech-savvy buyer in the Oklahoma City area who is accustomed to seamless digital integration in all aspects of their life, Santa Cruz's advanced, ecosystem-oriented technology will be a powerful and decisive draw.
Interior Technology and Infotainment Comparison
| Feature | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz | 2026 Ford Maverick |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Screen | 12.3-inch Touchscreen (Standard) | 13.2-inch Touchscreen (Standard) |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 12.3-inch Fully Digital (Available) | 8-inch Digital Productivity Screen |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto™ | Standard | Standard |
| Premium Audio | Bose® Premium Audio (Available) | B&O® Sound System (Available) |
| Wireless Charging | Standard on SEL Activity+ | Available |
| Digital Key Functionality | Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch (Available) | Not Available |
2026 Santa Cruz and 2026 Maverick Cargo, Towing, and Utility
Towing and Payload: The Power to Pull Ahead
For many buyers, the ultimate measure of a truck is its ability to do work, and in the critical metric of towing, the Santa Cruz is the undisputed champion. When equipped with the 2.5L turbocharged engine and HTRAC® AWD, the Santa Cruz boasts a maximum towing capacity of an impressive 5,000 pounds. This figure isn't just a number on a spec sheet; it represents a significant expansion of recreational possibilities for an Oklahoma family.
The Ford Maverick lags considerably behind. Its maximum towing capacity is 4,000 pounds, and this is only achievable when optioned with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine and the requisite 4K Tow Package. The standard hybrid model is limited to a mere 2,000 pounds of towing, which is barely enough for a small utility trailer. This 1,000-pound difference between the top-tier models is substantial, as it can be the deciding factor between being able to tow a desired boat or camper and having to leave it behind. While the Maverick’s 1,500-pound maximum payload is competitive with the Santa Cruz, its significant towing deficit makes it a far less versatile choice for those with active, adventurous lifestyles.
The Cargo Bed: Volume vs. Versatility
At first glance, the Maverick's bed appears to have an advantage with a slightly higher raw cargo volume. However, the Santa Cruz compensates for this with a suite of brilliantly engineered features that prioritize security, convenience, and flexibility, offering smarter utility that raw space cannot match.
Secure & Integrated Storage Solutions
Santa Cruz's ace in the hole is its lockable, weatherproof in-bed storage trunk. This underfloor compartment is perfect for securely stowing valuable tools. It provides peace of mind that an open, unsecured bed simply cannot offer. Furthermore, the Santa Cruz is available with a factory-designed, integrated retractable tonneau cover that provides a sleek, secure, and weather-resistant way to protect cargo.
DIY-Focused FLEXBED System
The Maverick's primary bed feature is its FLEXBED system, a clever, DIY-focused solution with slots designed to hold 2x4s for custom dividers and numerous tie-down points. While this offers a degree of customizability for tinkerers, it places the burden on the owner to design and build their own cargo management solutions. The Santa Cruz provides elegant, integrated solutions right from the factory. For the owner who values security and convenience over DIY projects, the Santa Cruz's intelligently designed bed is the far superior offering.
Utility, Towing, and Cargo Comparison
| Feature | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz | 2026 Ford Maverick |
|---|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (2.5T) / 5,000 lbs | 2,000 lbs (Hybrid) / 4,000 lbs (EcoBoost) |
| Max Payload Capacity | Up to 1,411 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| Key Bed Feature | Lockable In-Bed Trunk & Integrated Tonneau | DIY-Friendly FLEXBED™ System |
2026 Santa Fe and Maverick’s Warranty, Safety, and The Ownership Advantage
Safety as a Standard
Both Hyundai and Ford equip their compact trucks with a suite of modern safety features. The Maverick comes with Ford Co-Pilot360®, which includes essentials like Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking. However, Hyundai makes a more comprehensive set of its SmartSense safety technologies standard or widely available across the Santa Cruz lineup. Features like Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist are crucial for navigating busy Oklahoma City traffic, and Hyundai makes them more accessible than Ford, which often reserves similar features for higher trims or expensive option packages. Advanced aids like the available Surround View Monitor and the innovative Blind-Spot View Monitor, which projects a live camera feed of the blind spot into the digital instrument cluster, further underscore Hyundai's commitment to cutting-edge safety.
The Decisive Factor: America's Best Warranty
Perhaps the single most compelling argument for the Santa Cruz lies in its ownership proposition, and it begins with Hyundai's industry-leading warranty. The peace of mind this coverage provides is unparalleled and represents a massive, tangible value that extends for years after the purchase.
America's Best Warranty
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz is covered by a 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty. This is a profound statement of confidence from the manufacturer in the quality and durability of its product.
Standard Coverage
In stark contrast, the 2026 Ford Maverick comes with a much shorter 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. The Santa Cruz offers up to five additional years and 40,000 additional miles of protection on the most expensive components of the vehicle. This drastically reduces the potential for costly, unexpected repair bills long after the Maverick's coverage has expired.
The Santa Cruz offers up to five additional years and 40,000 additional miles of protection on the most expensive components of the vehicle. This drastically reduces the potential for costly, unexpected repair bills long after the Maverick's coverage has expired.
Ownership and Warranty Comparison
| Ownership Aspect | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz | 2026 Ford Maverick |
|---|---|---|
| New Vehicle Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 10 years / 100,000 miles | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 3 years / 36,000 miles | Not Offered |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 years / Unlimited miles | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
Why the Smart Choice is the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
For drivers across the entire Oklahoma City metro area, the choice between the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz and the 2026 Ford Maverick becomes clear after a thorough examination. While the Maverick presents a competent, efficiency-focused option, the Santa Cruz emerges as the superior vehicle by virtually every measure that matters to the modern driver.
It offers a more powerful and engaging driving experience with its available turbocharged engine. It provides a more comfortable and refined ride for daily commutes and family road trips, thanks to its sophisticated SUV-based platform and suspension. It delivers a more advanced and integrated technology suite that enhances convenience and safety. It boasts greater recreational capability with its class-leading 5,000-pound towing capacity. And, most decisively, it provides an unparalleled long-term value proposition with an industry-best warranty and complimentary maintenance that ensures years of peace of mind. The Santa Cruz is the smarter, more capable choice for drivers who refuse to compromise.
Experience the Santa Cruz Difference
Don't just read about its performance; you can experience it firsthand. Schedule your test drive today atJoe Cooper Hyundaior call(405) 354-1111to speak to an expert if you have more questions.