2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Trim Levels Explained near Irvine, CA
The 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ brings a rare blend of compact pickup utility, SUV-like comfort, and confident everyday drivability to shoppers comparing their next vehicle online. For anyone researching the 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ near Irvine, CA, the appeal starts with its smart size: it is easy to live with in busy Orange County traffic, yet its open bed, under-bed storage, sidewall compartments, and multi-functional tailgate make it far more versatile than a conventional crossover. The 2027 lineup is streamlined into SE, SEL Activity, and XRT, giving shoppers clear choices based on comfort, cargo flexibility, technology, and performance. Every trim includes core Hyundai strengths such as Hyundai SmartSense driver assistance, Bluelink+, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto, and standard H-Tex® seating surfaces. Tustin Hyundai is proud to help online shoppers compare these trims with clarity, especially those who want a vehicle that can handle commuting, errands, recreation, home projects, and weekend plans without feeling oversized.
| Trim Level | Focus | Powertrain | Utility | Technology |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE | Essential flexible utility | 2.5L engine | Core bed storage | 12.3” touchscreen |
| SEL Activity | Comfort and cargo upgrades | 2.5L engine | Tonneau and rails | Digital instrument cluster |
| XRT | Turbocharged adventure capability | 2.5T HTRAC AWD | Terrain Mode Select | Navigation and Bose® |
2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Trim Options
SE
H-Tex® seating surfaces · 12.3” touchscreen display · Lockable under bed storageThe 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ SE is the smart starting point for drivers who want open-bed practicality without stepping into a full-size truck. Its Smartstream 2.5L GDI + MPI DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder engine produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission for smooth, familiar drivability. Front-wheel drive is standard, while HTRAC AWD is available for shoppers who want extra confidence on varied roads. The SE also includes a 5-passenger cabin, 60/40 split tip-up lower rear seat cushions, H-Tex® seating surfaces, and a 12.3” touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto. The bed is a major reason to buy this trim: it includes a Sheet Molded Composite bed, lockable under-bed storage compartment, sidewall bed storage compartments, heavy-duty cargo D-rings, integrated rear bumper side steps, and an assisted open/close multi-functional tailgate. Bi-LED headlights, LED Daytime Running Lights, High Beam Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, and Safe Exit Warning help make the SE practical, modern, and reassuring.
SEL Activity
Integrated tonneau cover · Dual utility track rails · Heated front seats · Wireless Device Quick ChargingThe 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ SEL Activity builds on the SE with the kind of comfort and cargo upgrades many online shoppers look for first. It keeps the proven 2.5L engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, with available HTRAC AWD, but adds several daily-use features that make the vehicle feel more polished and flexible. Outside, the SEL Activity gains heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators, LED bed lighting, a power sunroof, roof side rails, and a rear sliding glass window with defroster. The bed becomes even more useful thanks to the factory-installed integrated tonneau cover with two built-in T-slot accessory tracks, dual C-channel adjustable utility track rail and cleat system, and a 115V power outlet in the sidewall storage area. Inside, the SEL Activity adds an 8-way power driver’s seat, power driver’s lumbar support, heated front seats, dual automatic temperature control with Auto Defogger, rear A/C vents, a 12.3” Digital Instrument Cluster, front auto down/up windows, illuminated sunvisors, and 15W Wireless Device Quick Charging. For many shoppers, this trim hits a confident balance between everyday comfort and genuine truck-bed usefulness.
XRT
2.5L Turbo engine · HTRAC AWD · Bose® Premium Audio System · Surround View MonitorThe 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ XRT is the trim for drivers who want the strongest performance, the most advanced technology, and a more rugged personality. Its Smartstream 2.5L Turbo GDI + MPI DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder engine delivers 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, giving the SANTA CRUZ a more energetic feel for merging, passing, climbing grades, and carrying gear. HTRAC AWD is standard on XRT, and this trim uniquely includes Terrain Mode Select, adding a stronger sense of control when road surfaces change. The XRT also raises maximum trailer weight with trailer brakes to 5,000 lbs., giving active owners more flexibility for small trailers and recreational equipment. Inside, the upgrades are meaningful: a 12.3” Audio-Video-Navigation color touchscreen with onboard Navigation, Dynamic Voice Recognition, Bose® Premium Audio System, leather-wrapped shift knob, leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, auto-dimming mirror, rear armrest with cup holders, and Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch. Driver assistance also expands with Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection, Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Highway Driving Assist 1, and Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control with Curve Control.
Which 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ Trim is Best for Irvine Drivers?
Choosing the right SANTA CRUZ depends on how much comfort, technology, and capability fits your daily routine around Irvine. The SE is a strong choice for commuters who want a practical open bed, approachable driving manners, and useful Hyundai SmartSense systems without overcomplicating the decision. The SEL Activity makes sense for drivers who often carry bikes, beach chairs, tools, storage bins, or home project supplies because its tonneau cover, utility rails, bed outlet, sunroof, heated front seats, and digital cluster add convenience in ways that are easy to appreciate every week. The XRT is the most complete choice for shoppers who want turbocharged response, standard HTRAC AWD, higher trailering capability, navigation, premium audio, and expanded camera-based assistance. For online shoppers comparing the 2027 Hyundai SANTA CRUZ near Irvine, CA, the best fit often comes down to how often the open bed will be used and how much premium technology matters on routes such as I-405, SR-55, Jamboree Road, and the Irvine Spectrum area.
*Not actual model shown in images
For most Irvine-area lifestyles, the SEL Activity is the best all-around trim because it adds the cargo-management and comfort features that make the SANTA CRUZ feel especially easy to use every day. Tustin Hyundai can help you compare the trims side by side and decide whether the efficient utility of SE, the balanced appeal of SEL Activity, or the turbocharged capability of XRT matches your plans best.
- Choose SE if you want a flexible compact pickup alternative with essential open-bed utility, a 12.3” touchscreen display, wireless smartphone integration, H-Tex® seating surfaces, and key Hyundai SmartSense features for commuting, errands, and lighter weekend projects.
- Choose SEL Activity if you want the strongest daily value in the lineup, especially for Irvine drivers who need a covered bed, adjustable utility rails, heated front seats, dual automatic temperature control, a 12.3” Digital Instrument Cluster, rear A/C vents, and Wireless Device Quick Charging.
- Choose XRT if you want the most capable and tech-rich SANTA CRUZ, including the 2.5L Turbo engine, standard HTRAC AWD, Terrain Mode Select, Bose® Premium Audio System, onboard Navigation, Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, and higher trailer capability with trailer brakes.
- Choose SEL Activity or XRT if your lifestyle frequently includes sports equipment, outdoor gear, dog crates, luggage, small furniture, or tools, because the integrated tonneau cover and bed-management hardware make the open bed easier to organize and secure.
*Vehicle images and features shown are for illustration only and may vary by trim and option.