Hyundai unveils the Santa Cruz Sport Adventure Vehicle

Hyundai has unveiled the Santa Cruz Sport Adventure Vehicle.

At the front of the car rests a bold, cascading grille that anchors the front view, supported by a skid plate element in the lower front fascia. Its daytime running lamps also present a parametric jewel design with high-tech precision detailing. Voluminous hood and fenders help give the vehicle an imposing first impression.

In profile, Santa Cruz signals a sporty yet capable spirit. The A- and C-pillars present faster forward and rearward rakes than typical open-bed utility vehicles.

Large 20-inch alloy wheels with a multi-faceted, triangular design are surrounded by armour-like wheel arches, conveying both wheel-articulation potential and off-road capability. Powerful body side volumes contrast with precise triangular sheer-edged surfaces and tight radius character lines.

From the rear, a horizontal 'T' lighting signature adds visual width and distinguishes the Santa Cruz from anything on the road. The functional rear open bed features secure, lockable in-bed storage, integrated corner bumper steps and a lockable tonneau cover, seamlessly integrated with the overall design. It offers up to 9.5m² of footprint area.

The interior of the Santa Cruz utilises a contrasting rugged yet refined motif, matching the boldness of the exterior.

It features an enveloping dual-cockpit design that encapsulates each passenger. Hyundai states that particular attention was placed on designing the cabin for ease of ingress and egress and ergonomic comfort on long drives.

The premium centre stack display meanwhile features an edgeless infotainment screen appearance, with an impressive 10 inches of visibility. The optional centre digital cluster display also measures 10 inches. Under the rear seats is convenient, in-cabin storage. Completing the premium ambience is an available Bose audio system.

Santa Cruz offers two powerful, flexible and efficient powertrains. The standard powertrain is a 2.5-litre direct-injected in-line four-cylinder engine with an estimated 190bhp and 244Nm of torque. This engine couples to an eight-speed hydraulic automatic transmission for quick acceleration and superb efficiency.

The Santa Cruz is also offered with a 2.5-litre direct-injected turbocharged engine with an estimated 275bhp and 420Nm of torque linked to an eight-speed Dual-Clutch automatic Transmission (DCT). This DCT includes steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual shifting control by the driver.

Both engine models offer the all-wheel drive capability of Hyundai's HTRAC system for complete confidence when pursuing adventures, or for that extra peace of mind when driving in an unexpected snowfall.