Hyundai has steadily built a reputation for innovation and smart value across its SUV and crossover lineup. But when it comes to pickup trucks, the brand’s presence has been more subtle — until now. With the 2026 Hyundai pickup truck lineup, the company blends its current compact offering with ambitious future plans that might reshape markets globally.
The story of Hyundai trucks today looks back at the Santa Cruz, a compact pickup that functions more like a sporty SUV with a bed than a traditional work truck.
Hyundai is also publicly preparing a larger, traditional midsize pickup that could compete directly with best‑sellers like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger in key markets like North America.
Quick Specs: 2026 Hyundai Pickup Truck (Santa Cruz)
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Hyundai Santa Cruz 2026 |
| Platform | Unibody (shared with Hyundai Tucson) |
| Engine | 2.5L naturally aspirated 4‑cyl |
| Output | ~191 hp |
| Turbo Option | 2.5L turbo 4‑cyl (~281 hp) |
| Transmission | 8‑speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| MPG | ~25 mpg combined |
| Towing | ~5,000 lb (XRT) |
| Infotainment | 12.3‑inch touchscreen |
| Safety | Forward collision assist, blind‑spot monitor |
| Price (USA) | ~$31,100 – $45,050 (varies by trim) |
These specs show that the Santa Cruz remains Hyundai’s current truck offering for 2026. It combines SUV‑like comfort and tech with the utility of a small pickup bed suited for lifestyle use, daily driving, and light cargo tasks.
What Makes the Santa Cruz Important
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz builds on Hyundai’s early pickup experiment by refining what worked and smoothing out weaknesses. Prices now start from around USD 31,100 for base trims, with higher trims like XRT and Limited approaching the mid‑$40,000 range, depending on equipment and choices.
The standard engine is a dependable 2.5‑liter four‑cylinder with an eight‑speed automatic. Hyundai ditched the dual‑clutch unit previously used on some trims for a traditional automatic transmission for 2026, aiming at better overall reliability.
Multiple trims offer versatility, from everyday commuter setups to more rugged‑ready configurations with all‑wheel drive and enhanced terrain modes. Advanced safety tech and modern infotainment systems with wireless smartphone connectivity are standard or available across the range.
A Truck That Feels Like a Crossover
Unlike traditional pickups, the Santa Cruz does not feel like a heavy duty workhorse. Its unibody platform — shared with crossover SUVs — gives it car‑like handling and a comfortable ride.
Some buyers appreciate the Santa Cruz because it blends daily usability with truck‑like versatility. It’s easily maneuverable in cities, has CarPlay and Android Auto, and integrates safety tech that supports confident driving in various conditions.
On the flip side, some truck enthusiasts feel that the Santa Cruz’s bed is smaller and less functional than a traditional pickup’s, especially for heavy hauling or serious off‑road use. But for buyers who want an adventure‑ready vehicle without a full‑size truck’s footprint, this design has clear appeal.
Hyundai’s Future Pickup Plans
The Santa Cruz is just the beginning. Hyundai has confirmed plans to develop a true midsize body‑on‑frame pickup truck — a significant step beyond the compact unibody design of the Santa Cruz. This upcoming model is slated for release before 2030 and will compete directly with trucks like the Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Colorado, and Ford Ranger.
Hyundai’s CEO has indicated that this new pickup will not be a rebadged model from its partnership with General Motors, instead being developed independently with the company’s own engineering.
Early reports suggest Hyundai may use a hybrid powertrain from the Palisade Hybrid SUV — potentially a 329‑hp setup — which could give the midsize pickup strong torque and efficiency. An SUV spun from the same platform might also appear, expanding Hyundai’s rugged vehicle family.
Why This Matters
Hyundai’s pickup strategy reflects a broader ambition to grow its market presence worldwide. The compact Santa Cruz appeals to lifestyle‑focused buyers looking for utility and comfort in one package. The upcoming midsize truck, on the other hand, aims at traditional pickup customers who prioritize capability and towing performance.
Together, these vehicles signal Hyundai’s confidence in challenging established players in both compact and midsize pickup segments — a move that could reshape the truck market in the next decade.
Final Thoughts
For 2026, Hyundai’s pickup presence is led by the Santa Cruz, a compact truck that blends crossover comfort with everyday utility. Meanwhile, Hyundai’s future midsize pickup truck — a bold new vehicle likely to arrive before 2030 — promises to bring the brand into true truck territory with a body‑on‑frame platform and competitive powertrains.
Whether you want a daily driver with a practical bed or are waiting for a rugged SUV‑style truck from Hyundai, the brand’s pickup future is shaping up to be exciting.
Summary
The 2026 Hyundai Pickup Truck lineup centers on the Hyundai Santa Cruz, a compact unibody pickup that combines SUV comfort with versatile utility, priced roughly from USD 31,100 to USD 45,050.
Hyundai is also planning a new midsize, body‑on‑frame pickup truck for the U.S. market by the end of the decade, targeting rivals like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger with hybrid powertrain options.