2023 Ford Maverick vs. 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz

The 2023 versions of the Ford Maverick and the Hyundai Santa Cruz are both remarkable in their own ways. We must dive into their stats to find out which one comes out on top. Join us as we compare these two useful and comfortable pickup trucks.

The Core of the Matter

A potent and capable engine is the heart of every good pickup truck. The engine cores of these trucks and their related stats will be detailed here.

2023 Ford Maverick Engine Core and Related Statistics

Two efficient and effective engine core and drivetrain setups are available for the 2023 Ford Maverick. The standard engine core is a hybrid system. Its gas component is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Its electrical component is a 1.1 kWh battery tied to an electric motor. The combination grants this Maverick 191 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. This setup is front-wheel drive and is rated at 42 mpg in town and 33 mpg on our nation’s highways.

The optional engine core is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with no hybrid battery component. It provides 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque and comes in an all-wheel drive configuration. This engine core setup is rated at 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the open road. The first core setup will take this Maverick from zero to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, while the optional core setup does the same in seven seconds. The fuel economy ranking is the best of any pickup truck on the market within the same model year, according to Motortrend.

2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Engine Core and Related Statistics

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz is also available with one of two engine core setups. The standard engine core is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder granting 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. The second is an intercooled 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a turbo rated at 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. The first is tied to a front-wheel drive system, while the second is connected to an all-wheel drive system.

The first setup grants 25 mpg in town and 28 mpg on the highway, while the second is rated at 21 mpg in town and 25 mpg on the open road. The first engine takes this Santa Cruz from zero to 60 mph in nine seconds, while the second does the same in just under that time.

Pickup Performance Comparison

We should go into more detail on their capacities after comparing the engine cores and basic capabilities of these two pickups. Let’s see what they can offer regarding towing and payload capacities, alongside transmission data below.

2023 Ford Maverick Transmission, Towing, and Cargo Capacity

The 2023 Ford Maverick has impressive cargo and towing capacities for a vehicle of its class. With the standard engine and drivetrain setup, it can tow 2,000 pounds while carrying 1,500 pounds in its bed. The turbo engine option with all-wheel drive and the 4K towing package can tow 4,000 pounds and carry 1,500 pounds in its bed. The hybrid version of the 2023 Ford Maverick comes with a continuously variable transmission. The optional engine and drivetrain setup comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Transmission, Towing, and Cargo Capacity

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz trades fuel efficiency for power. This means that its basic engine allows the pickup to tow up to 3,500 pounds as it carries 1,568 pounds of cargo. The optional engine core and drivetrain setup allow this Santa Cruz to tow 5,000 pounds while carrying a bit more in its bed at 1,749 pounds of cargo.

Every 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz version comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission with ShiftTronic hardware and programming, which allows the driver to force the normally automatic transmission into a manual format. This may sound advantageous, but it sacrifices a great deal of efficiency for the feel of a manual. It lacks the same advantages set forth by a true manual transmission.

A Low-Pressure Cabin Comparison

Now that we’ve discussed the core components and capacities of the Maverick and Santa Cruz for the 2023 model year, let’s look at what they have on the inside. That comparison will include convenience, comfort, and entertainment features.

2023 Ford Maverick Cabin Feature Breakdown

The 2023 Ford Maverick’s cabin features are centered around an 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay programming. It comes with a Wi-Fi hotspot capable of connecting to an impressive 10 devices simultaneously, making it an ideal work crew lead truck. Choose the eight-speaker B&O sound system for the best audio experience available on this pickup. It comes with a 660-watt amplifier and is available on the Lariat trim level.

Speaking of trim levels, this pickup is available in the XL, XLT, and Lariat versions. This Maverick is available with adaptive cruise control and a pair of 12-volt bed-mounted power outlets. These outlets are ideally positioned for those who want to use the Maverick as a work truck.

2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Cabin Feature Breakdown

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz has a six-speaker sound system programmed to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also comes with an 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system. Lacking the B&O upgrade, it comes with a speed-compensated volume control system and a radio data processing unit. The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz is available in SE, SEL, Night, SEL Premium, and Limited trim levels. An air filtration system, cruise control, and a pair of 12-volt DC outlets are standard for this pickup truck.

The Verdict

While both the 2023 Ford Maverick and the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz are remarkably capable pickups, the former clearly comes out on top. Its hybrid powertrain is a great choice for those who want to maximize fuel efficiency, and the B&O sound system is a fantastic way to enhance every commute.

Test Drive the 2023 Ford Maverick at Riverside Ford in Macon, GA Today!

If you want more information on this impressive pickup, feel free to contact us at Riverside Ford in Macon, Georgia. Our experienced and professional staff will be glad to update you on its features, options, and capabilities.