9,000 Miles Later: The 2026 Santa Cruz SEL Activity Delivers
I purchased my 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL Activity with only 18 miles on the odometer and have driven it over 8,900 miles since May 9, 2026. After daily driving it in city conditions and taking it on longer highway trips, I can confidently say this vehicle delivers the perfect blend of SUV comfort and truck utility. The Santa Cruz provides excellent passenger space, a practical bed with the factory Tonneau cover, plenty of power, and features that make everyday driving enjoyable.
The SEL Activity trim gives you a great combination of technology and convenience, including heated seats, lane assistance, a sunroof, and a comfortable second row. The highway performance is outstanding, with excellent stability, minimal cabin noise, and impressive fuel economy that can reach 36–38 MPG on long highway trips while averaging around 24–26 MPG during daily city driving.
The truck handles very well, especially with the 18-inch tires, and the transmission provides plenty of torque for the terrain I encounter. While there are some minor issues, such as a passenger-side headliner rattle and a few software-related quirks, they do not take away from how useful and enjoyable this vehicle has been. If you need a vehicle with truck capability but want the comfort and features of a crossover, the Santa Cruz is an excellent choice.
Recommended
Verified Owner
