Currently, the compact truck segment consists of the 2023 Ford Maverick and the Hyundai Santa Cruz. Choosing between them comes down to what you want from your small pickup! Our comparison guide is here to help you figure out which model has all the right moves.
Key Takeaways
- The Santa Cruz is the stronger option, with up to 281 horsepower and a max tow rating of 5,000 pounds.
- The Maverick is the thriftiest option. With its standard hybrid powertrain, this small truck earns up to 37 mpg combined!
- Both trucks are home to the latest infotainment gear and available luxury features.
- With its low starting price, the Maverick (starting at $22,595) is easier on your budget than the Santa Cruz (starting at $25,700).
Strongest Performance: 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Hyundai’s small truck delivers a touch more power, with stronger towing and hauling capabilities to boot. Properly equipped, the Santa Cruz can tow up to 5,000 pounds or haul up to 1,753 pounds.
The Santa Cruz powertrain specs include:
- Standard 2.5L four-cylinder engine (191 horsepower, 181 lb-ft of torque)
- Optional turbo 2.5L four-cylinder engine (281 hp, 311 lb-ft)
- Eight-speed automatic
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive
However, the Maverick is also pretty capable. With the right configuration and equipment, Ford’s compact pickup can tow up to 4,000 pounds. And every trim model can haul up to 1,500 pounds with no upgrades necessary.
The Maverick powertrain specs include:
- Standard 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid engine (191 horsepower, 155 lb-ft of torque) and continuously variable transmission
- Optional turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 277 lb-ft) and eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive (2.0L engine only)
Maximum EPA Ratings: 2023 Ford Maverick
Efficiency is one of the best reasons to choose a compact truck over bigger options! And the Maverick is the much thriftier option, delivering up to 40 mpg on the highway with its hybrid powertrain.
The Maverick’s EPA ratings vary according to powertrain:
- 2.5L hybrid engine: 37 mpg combined (40 city/33 highway)
- 2.0L, FWD: 23 mpg combined (23 city/30 highway)
- 2.0L, AWD: 24 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway)
- 2.0L, AWD, Tremor package: 21 mpg combined (20 city/24 highway)
The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz isn’t nearly as thrifty, however. With its base engine, this small truck earns up to 26 mpg on the highway. If you want to save big at the pump, the Maverick is the much better option.
The Santa Cruz’s EPA ratings also vary according to powertrain:
- 2.5L, FWD: 23 mpg combined (22 city/26 highway)
- 2.5L, AWD: 23 mpg combined (21 city/25 highway)
- Turbo 2.5L, AWD: 22 mpg combined (19 city/27 highway)
Interior Luxury: It’s a Tie!
Both compact trucks are available as a range of trim models, leaving you to choose how much you want to spend on interior luxury. Although the base models keep things simple, with cloth seating and manual air conditioning, the higher trim models offer everything from leather upholstery to a premium B&O sound system.
Both trucks are available with safety technology, including standard forward collision mitigation. And these pickups also treat you to smartphone-savvy infotainment, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Best Price: 2023 Ford Maverick
With an MSRP of $22,595, the 2023 Maverick gives you a capable drive at the best price. The entry-level 2023 Santa Cruz is notably more expensive, starting at $25,700.
The Best Compact Truck for You
Right now, the 2023 Ford Maverick is the best compact pickup you could buy! It prioritizes fuel economy, delivers impressive towing and hauling capabilities, and offers plenty of interior luxury. The Maverick even comes at the lowest possible price!