2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Ford Maverick

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz offers an available 281-horsepower turbocharged engine and a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission. As a Sport Adventure Vehicle, it provides superior interior comfort and a longer warranty than the Ford Maverick. Compare these compact utility vehicles below or schedule a test drive at our Muncie dealership.

Engine Power and Transmission Performance

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When deciding between these two highly capable vehicles, powertrain engineering is the biggest differentiator. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz comes standard with a 2.5L four-cylinder engine generating 191 horsepower. Importantly, this engine is paired with a traditional, smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission.

If you require massive passing power on I-69, you can upgrade to the available 2.5L Turbocharged engine, which delivers an incredible 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. For the 2026 model year, this turbocharged engine is now also paired with a reliable 8-speed automatic, replacing the previous dual-clutch system for smoother low-speed operation.

Conversely, the Ford Maverick utilizes a continuously variable transmission (CVT) on its standard hybrid engine, which can feel less engaging to drive. While Ford does offer an upgraded 2.0L EcoBoost engine, its 238 horsepower falls significantly short of the Santa Cruz's 281-horsepower turbo option. If you want true highway acceleration and crisp gear shifts, the Santa Cruz is the superior choice.

The Sport Adventure Vehicle Advantage

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The Ford Maverick is built with a traditional, utilitarian truck philosophy. While highly functional, the interior features extensive hard plastics, and the ride quality can feel stiff when the bed is empty.

The Hyundai Santa Cruz is classified as a Sport Adventure Vehicle. It is built on an advanced SUV platform, meaning it delivers the refined, comfortable ride quality of the Hyundai Tucson while still providing the utility of an open composite bed. Delaware County drivers will appreciate the premium cabin materials, standard wireless Apple CarPlay, and the lockable under-bed storage compartment. This integrated trunk is perfect for securing muddy boots or expensive tailgating gear out of sight.

Furthermore, the Santa Cruz provides long-term peace of mind that Ford cannot match. Hyundai backs the Santa Cruz with an industry-leading 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. If you want to see exactly how this interior is configured across the SE, SEL, XRT, and Limited trims, you can review our comprehensive 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz overview.