Two new compact trucks, the 2023 Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz, are changing the way we think about everyday utility. Both pickups give you enough muscle to tow and haul your favorite toys, but they also put a major emphasis on fuel economy. Which small truck is right for you? Our comparison guide has the details you need to make the right choice!
Key Takeaways
- Compared to the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz, the 2023 Ford Maverick offers the better starting price.
- We like both compact trucks’ comfort and tech lineups. When you spend a little extra, you can transform either model into a stylish drive.
- The Santa Cruz offers slightly heftier towing and hauling capabilities than the Maverick.
- With the Maverick, you can save much more at the pump!
MSRP: 2023 Ford Maverick
Choosing the 2023 Maverick can save you a bundle. Ford’s compact truck starts at $22,595, a very attainable price indeed. And, as we’ll see (below), the Maverick also helps you make some budget-friendly cuts at the gas station.
The 2023 Santa Cruz, on the other hand, starts at $25,700. That’s not too much more expensive than the Maverick, keeping costs reasonably competitive!
Creature Comforts: It’s a Tie!
Both compact trucks are actually very roomy and comfortable, with standard crew cabins that seat up to five passengers. And each truck also offers several trim levels. Moving up the trim levels means more features, but also a higher price tag. You can enjoy available features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated seats.
These modern pickups are also known for their tech features. Each truck comes standard with a smartphone-savvy infotainment system, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. And both deliver forward collision mitigation systems, which can hit the brakes when they sense a potential accident up ahead. Both trucks offer premium sound systems
Punchy Power: 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz
We like how the Santa Cruz moves. This compact pickup lets you choose from two peppy engine options. Both provide a smooth, sure performance. You should drive home in the Santa Cruz if you need extra towing and hauling capabilities!
The 2023 Santa Cruz performance specs include:
- Standard 2.5L four-cylinder engine (191 horsepower, 181 lb-ft of torque)
- Optional turbo 2.5L four-cylinder engine (281 hp, 311 lb-ft)
- Eight-speed automatic
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive
- 5,000 lbs max towing
- 1,753 lbs max payloads
Although the Maverick doesn’t have as much muscle, its two engine options still provide a quick, comfortable ride. If it’s a contest of speed, a Maverick with the 2.0-liter engine even has the advantage over the Santa Cruz. However, the Maverick tows and hauls a little less than its Hyundai counterpart.
The 2023 Ford Maverick performance specs include:
- Standard 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid engine (191 horsepower, 155 lb-ft of torque) and continuously variable transmission
- Optional turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 277 lb-ft) and eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive (2.0L engine only)
- 4,000 lbs max towing (with 2.0L engine)
- 2,000 lbs max towing (with hybrid powertrain)
- 1,500 lbs max payloads
Fuel Economy: 2023 Ford Maverick
Thanks to its hybrid powertrain, the Maverick can save you a bundle at the pump. Models with this engine earn up to 37 mpg combined (40 city/33 highway)! By combining this kind of fuel economy with towing and hauling capabilities, the Maverick is truly one of a kind.
The Santa Cruz’s base engine also provides its best EPA ratings. However, this truck isn’t nearly as thrifty, earning up to 23 mpg combined (22 city/26 highway). If fuel economy is your concern, you need the Maverick!
The Best Compact Truck for You
Sure, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz has a little extra power. But it’s the 2023 Ford Maverick that comes through with the best fuel economy! More than that, the Maverick also delivers the best overall experience with its roomy comfort and low MSRP. We think you’ll be as impressed with Ford’s compact truck as we are.