ONE YEAR OWNER REVIEW / UPDATE / 16,000 MILES LATER - VIDEO WAS POSTED TODAY 10/17/2023! I HAVE SOLD MY SANTA CRUZ!

I bought the 2023 SE with AWD in September in NY for just under 30k The base engine is fine. I don’t own a boat or camper to tow, and I don’t work in the trades. I don’t need electric seats or heated seats. The little window in the rear only hurts visibility. A moonroof is also something most “truck buyers” don’t need for the extra cost. The rolling tonneau cover on the upper trims is an almost 3K upgrade that takes space away from the bed, when you want to use it. If you really want the tonneau cover, maybe you are better off with an SUV with a hatched interior cargo area. Also, Hyundai is having issues with the Dual Clutch Transmissions on the turbo engine model. The SE does not have the turbo, which are also more susceptible to wear and tear issues, or the dual clutch transmission. While the Hyundai warranty is great, I really rather not have to use it for the power train breaking on a brand new vehicle. When heavy highway driving, I’m getting 25 mph overall. Also, the engine above 50 mph and above on highway speeds performs great, and capable of passing easily.

@TheHuester44

8 ай бұрын

That isn’t very good mpg for that engine transmission combination. I’ve read that about this vehicle in other reports. It’s a turnoff for me . I currently have a Honda civic si and I easily get over 30mpg at highway speeds . The Santa Cruz seems like a nice vehicle otherwise. I also wonder about long term reliability.

@sacballa_kills_em_wit_facts

7 ай бұрын

@@TheHuester44get that busted Bronco or Maverick with the shoddy warranty. That will make you happy lol

@leoperez3095

Ай бұрын

@@TheHuester44 I get about 36-40mpg on mine on the hwy at a stable or cruise control speed. City driving is a different story. My average is about 26-27mpg but I commute mostly about 5-10 miles a day (all city)

I have the SEL with the activity package, and other than being over charged by North Park Hyundai (charged 35k for it) we like the vehicle. We got no training in two long visits there so these videos are very helpful!

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

It’s a shame that is the case sometimes ! When making such a large purchase you’d expect a through and detailed presentation / delivery. I’m so glad to hear these videos are helpful to you! Thanks for the feedback and also thank you for watching 🙂

@analogchris9084

Жыл бұрын

What's with those DEEPLY recessed headlights???!!! Do they get rain/condesation.....or worse: does the recessed area COLLECT SNOW???!!! .

@primalpagan7632

10 ай бұрын

​@@analogchris9084those are fog lights. The headlights are above and designed to look like part of the grill

I'm in the market to buy one of these within the next month, so the comparison was really nice. However I think one of the big things you missed when talking about the engines, turbocharged or not, is the towing capacity. IF you tow, the standard engine like you and your mom have is a decent 3,500 pound max, while the turbo tops out at 5,000 pounds, which is a huge difference. Having an extra 1,500 pound towing capacity can make a big difference for those who might want to tow an RV or boat.

@boldyo

Жыл бұрын

Agreed, but if you have a mechanical issue with the Turbo Engine(known to be less reliable and burn hotter), or the DCT(known Issues) while towing an RV or Boat, it could ruin your whole day, not mention your wallet. Also the DCT is designed more for sporty vehicles not the best option for off road or towing as it already has issues at slow speed. The extra weight would only exacerbate those issues, along with making the hotter burning turbo even hotter. For that reason if I needed to tow 5000 pounds, I would just get a different vehicle.

@justincase1575

Жыл бұрын

As a retired mechanic; turbo engines cost more to maintain and the engines don’t last as many miles as naturally aspirated.

@justincase1575

Жыл бұрын

I’d get the SE as all the extras are just more to go wrong! Of course I’m old school.

@dylankicksA55

Жыл бұрын

Hyundai has an amazing warranty that will cover all of those issues up to 10 years. Get the turbo.

@sacballa_kills_em_wit_facts

7 ай бұрын

@@dylankicksA55FACTS 💯

Hi, I just purchased a new Hyundai Santa Cruz. I love it so far I wish it were a little larger in the backseats. I got the SEL model, because it was that or three $3500 for the sports adventure package. I truly enjoy my little truck.

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

Awesome! Congratulations on your new ride! I definitely agree with you about the backseats, my wife’s Elantra has more rear seat room surprisingly. I love mine as well and I’ve really enjoyed it these past months and almost 4,000 miles!

I'll buy SE because it is a "truck". Yes, SEL is nicer. However, it is $10K difference! You have done a great job!

Great review! I have an Sel fwd with the activity package and getting 28 combined mpg. Love it so far!

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

Thanks a lot! That’s awesome! It’s very cool to connect with other SC owners and I’m glad you’re loving yours!

Great Video! I think the turn signals on mirrors and indentation on gas cap are irrelevant. Remote Start and heated seats/mirrors are definitely worth it if you live in snow country. SOS/Bluelink, BSM, CTA great for driver safety. Sirius XM makes long trips more enjoyable. Power driver seat is not only convenient, but also safer if you need to make an adjustment while driving. Since I live in wintery Colorado, and think the safety extras alone justify the increased price, the SEL is a no-brainer. The only decision for me to make is on the Activity Package.

I want the SE. I’m simple.

Thank you for the SE/SEL comparison. Personally I don't need the extra bells & whistles, but I'd like to know if either trim level is available with the tonneau cover?

Very thorough, thank you. The SEL would be my choce for the cold weather options, (auto start, heated mirrors, heated seats)

I plan on buying an SC in the next month or two and this is the best video on KZread as you outlined the major and minor differences between the SE and the SEL. I'm attracted to the SE because it's in the $25,000 price range but now I'm considering the SEL based on your review.

Great video. I'm planning on test driving one and seeing the difference between all the models

I just picked up my 2022 SEL last Friday and researched it pretty good I thought but you taught me some things. Like the locking fuel door I did not know that either but it's cool. Thanks for sharing!

@christopherness4274

11 ай бұрын

2023 SEL Activity pkg. 2 weeks ago. I learned things in this review also. The learning curve on the features is steep. One thing I miss from my Sonata though, heated steering wheel.

Excellent review, this is the best comparison video I've seen so far. It really helps with the decision making. 👍

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

Thanks very much for the kind words! Encouraging to know these videos are helping people!!

@anneaiken-vz3452

Жыл бұрын

Yes! I've watched several videos on the Santa Cruz & no other video explained the difference between the two styles. This was very helpful because my Sel is excellent & I have the Stone Blue as well.

A very informative video! Keep up the great job!

Was waiting for a video like this. Thank you. You’ve convinced me to buy an SEL.

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

You’re welcome! I’m very glad to hear that this video helped you in making that decision!

I think both trucks are great choices and would love to have either one but If I had a choice I'd pick the sel. Thanks to you and your mom for this excellent comparison video. Enjoy your beautiful Santa Cruz trucks and congratulations.

Is this a Canadian version? I ask because my front blinkers are totally different. Granted I have the SEL PREMIUM with all the goodies minus leather seats (as I hate leather seating) so maybe that is the difference?

Great vid thanks for posting

This was interesting to see what your version entail for basic and best? In Canada we only have 2 models (there is one that a person can almost make a 3rd model but not really. We are picking up our "Ultimate" model which has so much more than you are describing, too. I noticed ours has the heated and vented seats, 20" wheels and a host of minor and major differences. I bet if you built in online using Hyundai Canada site and compare. Maybe you may want to come up north here to get one to drive it home. Thanks for the video as well.

Do they have window visors for the cruz

nice video, I learned a few things. i just got a used SEL with activity package. the sunroof, rear window with defrost, and upgraded display on the dash was nice. also, about $3200 more than the SEL, but in my opinion it is worth it.

rear vent? I googled and it says it has rear vent but I did not see them in your video. Or it is equipped only in 2.5 T version? What is the towing capacity of 2.5 and 2.5 T?

I dont see that button to disable the start/stop feature that stops the engine at a red light? My 2023 Tuscon has one I have a home in Quinwood BTW so going down rt 64 or up plenty of transmission shifting and braking on my Tuscon SEL AWD with the convenience package

Does either model have auto stop start??

Thank you for this comparison video. Good and useful information. I would purchase the vehicle with base engine, awd and SEL trim.

Thank you for this!!!

You can set the lane assist to be warning only and use the actual steering assist when you want assistance. 16:25 Fun fact: holding that button will turn the lane assist off/on.

So whats the SOS botton on the head liner ?????????????????

Well done video. I appreciate the trim level comparisons. I'm curious though about the difference between the night edition Santa Cruz and the SEL.

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

Thank you! I’m glad you appreciate the video. Good thought! Perhaps I can do a comparison of other trim levels as well!

what kind of center caps are those

It is good with the heater mirrors if you live in the Northeast or in the North in the cold season

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

Absolutely! As Winter is approaching I’m loving the heated mirrors on cold frosty mornings 🥶

Can a roof rack be added to the se base model?

@kenstewart7700

10 ай бұрын

No

I have a 2022 Sel with the adventure package and you will find out that you really can’t control your heater/ac with the blue link feature. You’ll have to leave the heater on to enjoy a pre heated vehicle. You have to upgrade to the premium package with dual zone system to get true control with you phone. Found this out last winter even went to the dealer to get some schooling and got the enfo I needed. My wife’s 2022 Tucson has the premium package with dual zone control and is controllable with our phones (apple i phones).

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

I have had some issues with my pin number in the app sometimes not signing me on. That is the main trouble I’ve had with the app, when it does sign me in I have been able to control the climate without issue… that is when the app lets me in!

The SEL has excellent acceleration and excellent passing on the highway. It’s a joy to drive. Very powerful engine and good gas mileage.

@che2335

Жыл бұрын

I find 190hp adequate in my 3200lb 18 Altima w a 7.3 0-60 Im hoping the Santa Cruz SEL will feel the same

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

Plenty of power for me! No complaints. Handling, MPG, acceleration and comfort is everything I could ask for and then some.

Thank you, great video! I would spend a little more for the upgrades.

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

You’re welcome and thank you for watching! I agree and I love my SEL!

Nice video. Thank you for the comparison. Very helpful tips.

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

You’re welcome! And thank you for watching 👍

Does it have a spare tire?

Thanks, you answered my questions

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

My pleasure 😎 Thanks for watching!

Those prices are walk out price?

Thank you. It was helpful. Please tell me how to turn off the radio in my sel. Thanks.

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

Hi JoAnn! Glad you found my video helpful. In order to turn the radio off you push the button that you use on the left bottom corner of the touch screen to turn the volume up and down.

17:34 the downward facing rear camera is for lining up a towing hitch with a trailer.

@davidlamons6520

11 ай бұрын

Thanks for posting this. I actually added a tow hitch the other day for random use and the thought of the camera never occurred to me.

Nice 👍 Very helpful 👏

THANKS FOR THE WALK AROUND, I GET TWO WHEEL DRIVE NEXT MONTH ITS A BARGAIN I DONT LIKE THE BIGGER PRICE IS A RIGHT FOR DUDE TRUCK.THE SE IS FOR ME SAME RESALE IN FIVE YEARS. EVERYBODY LOVES A TRUCK.

Great video and comparison - lots of helpful content. This helped me decide to go with the SEL. Seeing your grey interior made go with the Sage Grey with grey interior, looks great.

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

Thanks very much! I’m glad to hear that my video helped you make a decision on your big purchase! All the best with your Santa Cruz.

I went with the SEL the lack of a digital speedometer and sunroof did it for me on the standard

SE is the way to go. Less gizmos, less stuff to go wrong.

SEL doesn’t add very much for $3200. Heated seats in Texas use probably one day a year. You called the exclamation mark lane departure warning it’s actually blind spot warning and that is a big deal. But other than that. Blue link remote start Sirius xm I don’t use often at all

@ThisGuyRides

11 ай бұрын

I don't think his mom's is 2023, I see on Hyundai web site SE has both blind spot and cross traffic warning.

Great video!!. Question:: all the Santa Cruz truck are AWD or you pay extra for that option ?. And how much was the total cost for the SEL?. Thanks. I tried to buy a maverick, but dealer men want to take a lot of money...

@ericmorales-solis485

Жыл бұрын

I have the SEL, and the AWD is additional. Standard is FWD!!

where is the recall link ?

Does the SEL have the adaptive cruise control? I currently have the SE and like the remote start and the lane warning but don't know if the 3K would be worth it yet, but still considering the upgrade.

@B_noJ

Жыл бұрын

No, only on the limited or premium pkg

thx4clarifying se vs sel

I have the one below the the turbo love this truck car are what ever its is. I put a 2 in. Lift and two size bigger bf Goodrich TA tires .off road it is great snow no problem . The one thing I don't like is sometimes the windows will go down buy themselves completely unnecessary all and all great truck car what ever it is

Well done, great review.

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

Thanks very much!

Yes it’s worth more

There has to be a way to turn off the lock horn. It's annoying. You can hear when the lock function is activated. I turned it off in my 2018 Lattitude.

I just got the night edition and it has a turbo engine, can you telling me more about the recalls? Thanks

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

Congrats on your purchase, David! Here’s what I know based off my research into the recalls. Some of the DCT transmissions can have serious issues and Hyundai recalled them for an internal fault with the DCT’s high-pressure electric oil pump a loss of power and triggering the vehicle into triggering the fail-safe driving mode. I’ve also heard reports that the Turbo models Turbocharger oil pipes may leak. That then causes the oil supply pipe to the turbocharger to crack, which could result in an oil leak in the engine compartment, which in presence of hot surfaces such as the exhaust components can increase the risk of a fire. I hope you never experience any of those issues! Please keep me posted on your journey with your new Santa Cruz and thanks so much for watching!

@rorrodea0451

Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much, I really appreciate it

I forget where you are in the states. But wouldnt it be nice to do a comparison with all three of our trucks together. I think my trim level is different than your sel. Would be even better to get all three compared. I am in Pennsylvania.

My new sel drives like my Miata. Love it.

For cold climate regions the SEL is worth it, but for warm climates like FL the SE is fine.

Thorough video except I still don't know if the SEL gets BOSE speakers.

Hi. Thank you for posting. My questions is do the base engine have enough power for everyday use?

@B_noJ

Жыл бұрын

It does. It passes fast and takes off pretty good from a stop. I haven't towed anything with mine yet so don't know that...

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

After 2,000 miles I can confidently say that it’s more than enough for average, everyday use. Mine spends most of its running time on the highway!

Awesome review Comparison of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE VS the Santa Cruz SEL

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much! I appreciate the feedback 😎

@aryehrosenthal2138

Жыл бұрын

Do you do reviews on other Hyundai cars besides the Santa Cruz Pickup?

Is it just me or does the 2023 have a higher rake in the back then the 2022?

3:46 I miss the loud honks when you lock cars!! 😢😂

Why didn't you do a sel 2023 against a sel 2022?

Excellent detailed comparison review👍

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

Thank you!!

For those of you who don't need the extra engine Power I strongly recommend the SE. for two main reasons , the wheel size is smaller being 18inches rather then 20 like in the premium for rough road and off road conditions this provides better traction control. The SE also has a standard auto rather then a dual clutch , which is also better for traction and traveling . Hyundai's dual clutch has been failing pretty bad leading to recalls and repairs . another thing i've noticed is the rear dff on all of the models is pretty bad and you'll loose traction in rough road conditions pretty quickly. So if your looking for a car with safety in rough conditions , and doesn't need all the fancy bells and whistles that's the model I recommend.

@sacballa_kills_em_wit_facts

7 ай бұрын

You didn’t do any proper research on 2022 DCT issue. Bad info lol

Thanks

Yes I love sel and it's worth it

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

I agree!!

Nice job

Just got a 2023 SEL fwd today for the wife.

Great review. Too bad the DCT is having such problems.

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

Thank you!! I agree and hope Hyundai gets it fixed quickly!

I would go with the sel model

Thank you

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

My pleasure!

SE is good, why pay 3000 extra. But issue is with key because you want a small metal key in your packet to open the door then push button to start unless some one need extra functions. Besides this need button to roll windows up or down, lock or unlock door, move side mirror on both sides with power button all that. Lock gas tank is good. Cloth seat are more comfortable and keep price low, one think car maker do not realize is front look which should be simple and normal with head lights at suitable location with one light for low beam and one for high, nothing to creative or aggressive. Have wind shield grill in the middle easy vise. Spare tire is good and necessary for suv or pick ups there is good amount of room under neath the vehicle, roof rack are always good in vans, SUV, pick ups.

Welcome to Malaysia Santa Cruz,,,when?

Would like to see in red or a green

❤❤❤

I have a 2022 SEL black . I noticed in your sel version is different then mine . I have a digital dash cluster on mine ?? Absolutely love the digital cluster , looks so sharp and looks very tech

@jeffstacey4574

Жыл бұрын

I definitely don’t have the limited to answer ur question.

@jeffstacey4574

Жыл бұрын

Anyhow great video !! Love the color of yours !! Hope you like your Santa Cruz as much as I do. Such a cool ride !!

@caliwish7585

Жыл бұрын

The activity package gives you the digital display

@k.stacey7389

Жыл бұрын

Activity package gives you a lot of the limited edition options, including the digital cluster.

I’m old, I need the safety features!

I will pick SE. I don't need all the bells and whistles as well as DCT. Simple is always better.

For the tints I got 18% done all around. I like how no one can see me at all

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

18% is a nice dark but still good tint 👍

Next time it’s easier if the vehicle side by side are in same direction when comparing engine and rear.

The Thumb indent is a 2023 feature

I'd stay far away from any trim that uses a dct or dual clutch transmission bc as I learned in other videos it's not a transmission suited to regular in town driving or really anything outside of a race track. If you've ever driven a Ford Focus long enough to have transmission problems or failure.. well that's a dct transmission.

@dontdoxmebro

5 ай бұрын

No issues with my sonata 5 years of both city and highway use.

Get the activity package!

If only the sel had roof rails…

I don’t $3K is worth power seats, heated seats, a few driving safety perks, and remote start. (I live in a warmer climate area) All I need/want is an SE with all weather rubber mats and AWD.

@johnrowley310

9 ай бұрын

yea but you loose out on the thumb print on gas door...

Are the backseats REMOVEABLE?

@Eliyourcarguy

Жыл бұрын

Hi Shirley! After looking into this further, I found a helpful video posted by @jfwtechnologytravelandphot6536 showing how to remove the rear seats of the Santa Cruz.

You shouldn't have to push the lock button until it beeps. Mine locks with one push. Without blowing the annoying horn!

Total shame that Hyundai doesn’t offer adaptive cruise control on SEL.

Why does his SEL look like it has the analog instrument cluster

Why did you decide to hide one behind the other.

15:35 SEL 16:59 SE It's weird, even the external temperature sensor is not the same 63° for the SE and 61° for the SEL

@dontdoxmebro

5 ай бұрын

Well, one car is tinted the other is not. I wonder where the sensor is located.

Only reason to buy an sel is if you get the activity package otherwise theyre about the same

3k won't break ya..you should swap cars with your Mom..give her those upgrades!

After 1 year I traded it in for a Subaru! My tailgate fell off. After 1 year review, I would not recommend this vehicle.

Big disappointment roof racks and tonneau covers cant be added to the se or sel non activity