I spent months researching every last thing about this vehicle to decide exactly what configuration of this vehicle would be best for me. Your videos were super helpful, as everyone else was only covering the Limited! In particular it was good to hear from just a regular guy and not some gearhead, who was satisfied with the base engine. I settled on the 2023 SEL in this color, although I did spring for the activity package. It's been a month and I'm in love with this car. I owe some of that to you, so thank you!

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

Love the kind words. That was my entire goal when making these. Keep on cruzin’!

My wife got the same color in the SEL model, she loves it! And I kind of love it too can’t stop driving this little truck 😂 it has about 10k miles and it still runs very smooth and yes it seems to be more responsive no issues up to this point!

Just bought a 2023 limited and I'm in love. I've only got 25 miles right now lol. Great luck to you I hope I love mine in 10 years when it's warranty is up and I move on.

Just hitting 3500 mi. With my SEL/Activity. As a pro artist I regularly have to carry inventory that’s in the 5-6 foot square/rectangle format which requires me to get creative with carrying it in that four foot wide bed, and I have hauled some astonishing loads. That said, the rest of the time it’s really just a very luxurious SUV that, compared with 25 years of mid-sized pickups and one Ford Transit Connect, is a real joy to drive. Being well into my 7th decade, I have no need to flex my testosterone, so the 2.5 N/A engine is perfectly adequate for normal driving, and so far I’m showing an average of about 27 MPG. This ride provides me with an experience of quality, quiet, and comfort I have never had and also makes me feel like I’m driving a custom car when it grabs peoples’ attention everywhere I go! I waited 5 months for a Ford Maverick that never came, and finally gave in to the alternate, the Santa Cruz, and am really grateful it worked out that way. Maybe what’s most telling is the fact that my spouse hated riding in every other truck I’ve owned. She LOVES riding in my SC! She’s a dedicated BMW driver.

Thanks for the video, nice to hear what other owners think. I have a SEL Premium with around 25,000 miles on it. So far so good. I use it as a work truck and the bed of the truck is just the right size. And the Tonneau cover keeps my stuff out of sight and protected. Only concern I have is the quality of the paint. I have a few small chips on the front hood. Has me looking into getting a hood guard.

@mikeskidmore6754

Жыл бұрын

I am guessing they use water based paint ..??

Love the grille / headlights / front... Very distinctive and unique. And cool.

I have this color in the activity package. Had mine for a year now and I experienced the same with the apple glitch and the door peeling. No one has a Santa Cruz in my town so I get a lot of looks and questions too but I like that I stand out 😄

I asked you a question in your original videos quite some time ago. A little over a week ago I wound up purchasing the same model only in AWD. Even wound up getting the Blue Stone color as it grew on me over time. Liking it a lot so far.

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

Great! I need to tell Hyundai to start paying me commission 🤣

@chrismatheny4957

Жыл бұрын

@@padawanpanther468 there were virtually no reviews on the SEL model originally so your video was very helpful! I have run into the issue you brought up about my knee being right where the corner of the center entertainment display is. I wish Hyundai would have had the foresight to have rounded and cut off about an inch of those bottom corners (there is plenty of room for them to have done that) and it wouldn't have been an issue at all. I just adjust my seat to deal with it but it's a little thing that Hyundai missed. It won't affect everybody though.

thanks for the update - I saw the "keep pounding" decal in the back window. I too know the pain of rooting for the Panthers.

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

It’s dark times friend.

Just got mine ❤love it so much

Got the Santa Cruz 2023 limited 2.5 Turbo. I love it

Great vid. You have inspired me to make one myself. Not enough SEL vids out there.

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

Exactly! There need to be more so people can decide before they buy.

We just bought a 24 in sage green in the limited trim and love it.

I bought a 2023 in this same trim and absolutely love it

Thank you. Beautiful car 🚙

I have the same truck...same color, same trim...only difference is mine has the activity package and is AWD. I do love that it does hide the dirt really well. My drive way is a half mile long and gravel. Also, very pleased with its responsiveness for a base engine. Got 2 forward facing car seats in the back for my kids, no issues. Averaging about 28 mpg, but I've seen as high as 34. The wireless carplay in this model works very well. Base sound system is decent....not awesome by any means, but it is acceptable. The stock halogen headlights are pure trash and I had to switch those out on day 2. Cool truck for sure.

@timstetson6557

Жыл бұрын

How did you get wireless apple car play? I have a 23 Limited and it needs your phone to be plugged in to get carplay

@wtfx5757

Жыл бұрын

@@timstetson6557 limited don’t get it. Only the base system has wireless CarPlay

@timstetson6557

Жыл бұрын

@@wtfx5757 that's insane and makes 0 sense on Hyundai's part. Thanks for the reply though! I appreciate it

@wtfx5757

Жыл бұрын

@@timstetson6557 it is insane, but it is what it is. I believe the larger head units the limited have to do not have the required wireless chip built in. Hyundai and Kia you really have to watch their option packages…the have a tendency to omit little stuff from year to year.

@timstetson6557

Жыл бұрын

@@wtfx5757 oh well. I've had mine for a week now and absolutely love it. still completely satisfied

Dam nice truck,I have tne same we have both cars you have. I have roll up tonneau cover $300.00, Great Scott its a winner let's be glad its made in america. Thank for update.

Love the looks of the Santacruz It looks just like my 2022 Tucson inside and out except for the bed

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

Yep it’s based on the Tucson.

Have one iloveit Great vehicle 👌

The only thing I would really want from the sport package is the retractable bed cover other then that I love this truck and can’t wait to get it soon 👍🏿

@dskillzhtown

Жыл бұрын

I have one. Great vehicle. The bed cover was a must for me. You won't regret the purchase.

@bobbycampbell2774

Жыл бұрын

Check the forum, a few tonneau covers for sale

Love the captain rex decal!

Just drove an SE yesterday, I was really curious to see how the vehicle moved and handles. I currently drive a 2015 VW GTI that I've had since new. I'm very used to a car that can accelerate and handle well, so I wanted to know if I could live with a "truck" by comparison. I was very pleased with my drive in the Santa Cruz, and though I would love the power of the turbo engine (the performance of which essentially that of my GTI) I could certainly live with the normally aspirated engine SE, if I'm realistic about how I actually drive. The price for the turbo variants is just too steep for me. So, yes - I think I'll go for a Santa Cruz in a year or two.

got the same one in Tan. Yes it does turn heads. Love mine. Two weeks after I got mine I was side swiped hit and run. Left fender front pieces and various plastic. Total bill $7500. Had to pay deductible $1000.00

@wtfx5757

Жыл бұрын

Horrible! Absolute shyte that we have to pay even a deductible for shyte like this. Hope they did a good job fixing up your truck and you continue to get many good years out of it.

@loviedebiasio8864

Жыл бұрын

@@wtfx5757 got it done at a Statefarm select service body shop. so it has a lifetime warranty even if that body shop goes out of business.

Your door handle will open the door. They replaced mine and attended again, so I just peeled it all off and shining now I don’t have to worry about it no more.

I too purchase the Santa Cruz back in March I got the 2.0 turbo and I absolutely love it the turbo makes a huge difference in the power range it'll put you back in your seat which is pretty impressive for a small truck I would say my only complaint about the 2.0 if you decide to ever buy or if anybody in this chat you need does you'll probably only get 13 to 18 city to and 20/27 miles to the gallon, however I only have 2,800 miles on mine so maybe they're still is a break-in period for that other than that it's pretty capable I've taken my truck on the beach with the standard tires it did fairly well obviously if you have all terrains it'll do better, and I too have had the same issue with my wireless Android auto being funky every once in awhile.

@thehornblasterjohnny

Жыл бұрын

It's a 2.5L Turbo. I have had mine a year now. Mine is part of the DCT recall. Sucks but haven't had an issue. I average 16 to 22 mpg but I drive aggressively from time to time and I am modified with a pedal commander, intake system and exhaust. The recall updates are what gives and kills mpgs though. So there is that. Mine is the SEL Premium... so yeah.

@thehornblasterjohnny

Жыл бұрын

Oh and yeah... the Android auto sucks. At least the wireless bit. Will randomly disconnect on demand. I have Tmobile so its worse. Lol

I wanted one but couldn’t take the dealer add. Got a Ridgeline instead. Very happy with my decision. The sound system is far superior.

I wanted one so bad when I seen the concept version in 2015 and prayed they wouldnt change the aggressive look & styling too much but they did.The vehicle still is nice but it took me off the list to get & purchase one. I wish I could buy the concept model that would really turn heads also. Good Luck with yours its a nice vehicle but sadly in my opinion doesnt compete with the 2015 Detroit Auto Show version. How do you feel about that did you like the original Santa Cruz concept design car styling better????Im curious and others out there are you dissapointed?

I love mine , great car

Do you know if it can be fitted with the ladder rack? or a closed shell aftermarket camper cover, thanks in advance. I’m looking forward to get the low in model 2023 in March.

This man out here doing God's work, giving the people what they want

@RiversDoNotFlowUphillFE

Жыл бұрын

kzread.info/dash/bejne/o3mVqsyJdpedj6g.html

I really like that color.

We just got the sage grey one in Mount Holly last weekend. So far we are loving it. Nice to see another local (I noticed you’re panther references)😂😂 how does it compare to the Palisades?

Nice!

Have you had issues with water (condensation) inside the daytime running lights?

I like the black door handles, did yours come that way? I now also have a blue stone SC, my original phantom black was bought back by Hyundai due to an electric/electronic issue that they couldn't fix.

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

Yeah mine came with the black door handles. I like them that way too

With the way things are going my next purchase will have to be this, the N/A engine and the 8 speed. Wondering if you’ve towed with it at all. (Wife has the same drivetrain in her kia). Obviously not expecting it to drag trailer like a dually, just need to get my pop up or Jon boat to the location 4-5 times a year and wondering if you’ve have any experience with any trailers like that. Thanks in advance.

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

I haven’t tower with it unfortunately. My model doesn’t have a hitch. I’m interested in having one put on though so if I do I’ll drop another video. I have read that the N/A engine does fine for light loads.

If you find out about that coating on the driver’s door, please let me know!! I have a 2022 Santa Cruz, and have seen where that coating is peeling off in the same spot as yours is!!!! I’m not happy about this occurring

Questions: 1. Does the Santa Cruz have a 'lockable' glove box? (Yes or No) 2. If you hand your key over to a Valet, has Hyundai figured out a way to keep them out of your 'locked glove box'?

I have the SEL trim level, so far so good. The volume of the radio is too low, my only complaint ! The roof has no rails to attach the roof racks so that is a bummer !

Could you take it into the dealer to replace the peeling plastic handles? That's ridiculous that they are peeling after 1 year.

Show the area behind the front seats....how much room is back there?

My door is peeling too. 😒 Gr8 review. I like how you're accessorizing your vehicle. Questions: Do you have trouble maintaining the black trim? How about the water spots on the glass? 🤔 ❓️ ❓️ ❓️

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

I haven’t had trouble with either. I do hit the black trim with a light coat of armorall after I wash it. Try at your own risk I guess but it’s been working well for me 😃

@Awilli9071

Жыл бұрын

@@padawanpanther468 Thank you for you help. I'm trying.

I like the 30 mpg I have averaged, but I have a few issues. Apple car play connects when it wants to, cheap plastic on the tail gate, door handles are faded out already, and can’t seem to figure out why i can not lock the doors by hitting the button on the door. Only works off the remote

You know how you buy a car/truck (used or new), and then you start seeing them all the time? We bought our Santa Cruz, July 23, 2022, and I still haven't seen another one. I know they are out there because over 15 000 or more have been made. Maybe tomorrow, I'll see 3 of them. Lol.

I’m 6,4 you think I will fit comfortably?

Looks great, just missing the manual model.

@wtfx5757

Жыл бұрын

I would have LOVED to see this is a manual transmission. Where the auto transmission lever is located falls really well to my hand, so much so that I have to remind myself not to rest my hand on top of the gear shift. It would be awesome if they stuck a manual transmission in this thing. A man can dream, right?

I want one badly.

Does the rear window roll down?

Does it look like it could hold a toolbox?

No issues with water in the headlights? Seen a vid of someone having that issue and am thinking of ordering the Ultimate in black. Also, how is it for a family? Reliable in all the necessary ways??

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

The water that people are complaining about it with the daytime running lights. It doesn’t actually get in the light housing but it gets between the grill and the light housing and looks like it’s inside the lights. Once the truck dries off all the way, the water evaporates. Also- this is a fine family care. Reliable and comfortable. But, it’s not very big. Might now be good for a long road trip with a full cabin because there wouldn’t be much storage space. We have a palisade for family trips (I have 3 kids)

@LeonExile05

Жыл бұрын

@@padawanpanther468 That first part is good to know, thanks. 🙏🏼 We have one of the new Sportage’s, I guess that would have to do for certain types of trips. The other car is a Stinger, but I’m thinking the utility and safety for winter times here in Canada would be better with a truck. Seems like the Santa Cruz is the best bang for your buck feature wise. I was originally looking at a Honda Ridgeline, but the Santa Cruz is like 10k cheaper. (For the highest trims) I did test the SC in person and you’re right, the back seat is quite cramped, even compared to the Stinger. lol

Does the head lights get fill with water

I’ve been wanting to see that vehicle, I’m thinking of getting 1, are they all gasoline or are some electric?

@mattpenney1963

Жыл бұрын

all gas

So they do make them with real instruments, not with just a cheap tablet?

Do items in the truck bed stay dry with the cover closed? Just wondering if it’s waterproof!

@Alebal76

Жыл бұрын

Not fully waterproof, but it definitely does help.

fuel economy? mostly highway? back roads? etc.

A truck with no hitch package?

Have you taken your Santa Cruz Fishing or Hunting Curious as to how it would behave on the Outer Banks or Duck Hunting

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

No I haven’t taken mine off road any because mine is not awd. I would think the awd model would do fine in moderate terrain. I have seen other vedeo showing off what it can do off-road.

What about gas?

Bro , any update on reliability ..im thinking looking into that NA non turbo Verision .im coming from a 13 Ridgeline ?

@padawanpanther468

11 ай бұрын

No problems so far. I’m coming up on 25k miles and everything is fine.

Pretty cool other than the yuppie decals.

Hello! What is your average fuel consumption ?

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

I get between 20-29mpg but I drive a little aggressive lol

The color does make me a lazy car washer 😁

I call it the "El Hyundai-mino"

MY 6 month experience. I have the top of the line Limited, turbo, DCT, leather seats. The transmission is failing. Google it, seems Hyundai is having many problems with the DCT, Dual Clutch Transmission. My service department denies there is any problem with these Santa Cruz. Hyundai Corporate denies any problems, even though I have a Hyundai document that says "DO NOT SELL"... Hyundai is unsure how to fix. The problem is the car will go into 'limp' mode, decreasing your speed to 20 miles per hour. This a very dangerous on the freeway. There is no warning, the car just loses power. Auto braking also seems to buzz a warning, when no cars are around. I turned off the lane keep assist, because the car does not allow you to make a 'gradual' lane change.... it keeps jerking you back into your original lane... I would not buy this car, knowing these flaws.

So what is it, a little car with a bed or a little truck that imitates a car.

Stop calling it a truck. It ain't even close. It's simply an SUV they turned the rear cargo area into a 4' bed....and it only holds 660lbs. The plastic grille looks cool, tho.

@markbaker3698

3 ай бұрын

Wrong. Payload is 1411#.( Bed capacity at least 1000#)

@billwhiteathome2080

3 ай бұрын

@@markbaker3698 Hi Mark. It's 660 max in the bed. 1411 total. Mav can carry entire 1500 payload in the bed.

Is there any chance an adult can actually sit in that backseat?

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

Yeah sure they can but it won’t be super spacious 😃

@Incomudro1963

Жыл бұрын

I'm 5'11" less than 170 pounds. I test drove a Santa Cruz, and with the driver's seat set for me, I can fit quite comfortably in the rear seat behind the driver's seat.

Just for taking the kids to Ball Practice and hauling some straw .. 13 thousand miles in 9 Months // OPEC thanks you for burning so much gasoline..

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

What are you suggesting?

@mikeskidmore6754

Жыл бұрын

@@padawanpanther468 2=2=13 .. How do you drive 13,000 miles in 9 months just running errands?

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

I drive a lot for work. Why does that matter? My point was, I’m not using my Santa Cruz for anything like hauling, or pulling anything heavy. Just normal around town stuff and highway driving.

@mikeskidmore6754

Жыл бұрын

@@padawanpanther468 I have had a Silverado 2500 HD for 8 years just put about 11,000 miles on it in that amount of time..

@padawanpanther468

Жыл бұрын

@@mikeskidmore6754 okay. I still fail to understand the point you’re trying to make. People have different driving habits and totally different lives. My video is meant to be helpful to new potential buyers. I’m just sharing my experience. Thanks for tuning in. 💪🏼

Wtf !!!? There is no SEL non turbocharged Santa Cruz in Canada ! This country is a joke 😂 Gov wants to go green and you can’t even buy basic model. Just turbocharged 😂 haha

What about water in the headlights? Another KZreadr has posted about their headlights fogging up constantly

Love the truck , how's the fuel economy

@wtfx5757

Жыл бұрын

averaging 27-28 mpg in mine. That is not what I call terrible, but definitely room for improvement. I can definitely see Hyundai putting in the hybrid power train from the Tuscon in the near future...

@TommyG11814

Жыл бұрын

I just bought a 2023, sme one you have only in black, really love it great riding vehicle min came with the bed extender and I like that alot gives a usable lent of 6ft 2 in.