It almost seems like it was yesterday that we laid eyes on Hyundai’s decidedly attractive Santa Cruz pickup Concept but that was actually way back in 2015, at the Detroit Auto Show. Nearly four years later, we’re finally finding out a little more about it.
According to Luc Donckerwolke, new Chief Design Officer at the Hyundai Motor Group, the production version of the Santa Cruz will arrive as soon as possible. The vehicle is under development. Again, from Donckerwolke, the design aspect is complete so what remains is getting production under way.
The timing for the Santa Cruz is set for a 2020 launch. This would position it about a year behind the new Ford Ranger (which we drive next week), and likely somewhere in the middle of a serious revamp of the Toyota Tacoma and GM twins. Its most direct competitor could be considered the Honda Ridgeline and it too will have received a once-over by then.
Kia is also considering its own version of the compact pickup for the European and other markets but it would come later, after the Hyundai and following a strengthening of its SUV portfolio.
