Which compact pickup is better? Edmunds compares the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz Each offers different strengths, and the best choice depends on what you expect from a truck.

We took a second look at the latest Santa Cruz, and it looks as fresh and unique today as the day Hyundai first unveiled it.

The Santa Cruz XRT trim includes all-terrain tires, front tow hooks and a surround-view monitor to enhance visibility, but the Maverick Tremor trim is the best choice for dirt work.

Edmunds compares the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz This photo provided by Hyundai shows the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz, a compact pickup with a car-like interior and impressive towing ...

A decade ago, the midsize truck market clung to life. Today the rejuvenated segment offers a half-dozen models and has even spun off a burgeoning compact pickup class led by the Ford Maverick and ...

This photo provided by Hyundai shows the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz, a compact pickup with a car-like interior and impressive towing capabilities. (Courtesy of Hyundai Motor America via AP) ...

This photo provided by Hyundai shows the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz, a compact pickup with a car-like interior and impressive towing capabilities. (Courtesy of Hyundai Motor America via AP) ...

Today the rejuvenated segment offers a half-dozen models and has even spun off a burgeoning compact pickup class led by the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz.

The Santa Cruz looks as fresh and unique as the day Hyundai unveiled it. Its comfortable, modern five-passenger cabin and usable bed can appeal to anybody who doesn’t want a conventional pickup.