An image showcasing the body of Hyundai’s upcoming Santa Cruz pickup truck has surfaced online, offering an excellent look at the vehicle before it hits the production line in 2021.
This photo was shared on Instagram by cars_secrets and shows the body of a Santa Cruz being transported. It confirms what recent camouflaged prototypes have indicated, namely that the road-going Santa Cruz will look quite different than the original concept from 2015.
Most notably, the road-going model will be sold as a four-door crew cab compared to the extended cab setup of the concept that had rear suicide doors, Motor Trend notes.
Read More: 2021 Hyundai Santa Cruz To Target Honda Ridgeline, But Could It Start At $25,000?
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The most obvious similarity to the concept is the shape of the rear side windows and the tapered C-pillars. Another aspect of the pickup’s design that stands out in this photo is a sharp body line running along the doors and towards the taillights.
Underpinning the Hyundai Santa Cruz will be the same basic architecture as the Santa Fe, meaning it will be a unibody and compete against the Honda Ridgeline. Two engine options are expected, the first being a 2.4-liter delivering 185 hp and 178 lb-ft (241 Nm) of torque, with the second expected to be a turbocharged 2.0-liter good for 235 hp and 260 lb-ft (352 Nm) of torque.
While base models are expected to be front-wheel drive, those willing to pay a little extra will be able to option an all-wheel drive system. Hyundai has previously confirmed it will build the Santa Cruz at the Montgomery, Alabama plant that also builds the Santa Fe, Sonata, and Elantra.
2015 Hyundai Santa Cruz Concept
2021 Hyundai Santa Cruz test prototype
