NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a compact sport adventure truck, not a sedan, built on a car-based unibody platform and aimed at active buyers who want pickup-truck utility without the bulk of a traditional truck. Sitting in the emerging lifestyle truck segment, it targets younger households and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize versatility and a more car-like driving experience alongside an open bed.
Despite a strong crash-test showing, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz carries a park-outside or stop-driving recall, so read the recall section first. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally praise the Santa Cruz for its clever blend of car-like ride comfort and genuine truck practicality, calling it a well-executed entry in the lifestyle truck category. Most find the driving dynamics a clear strength, though some note the bed size limits heavy hauling ambitions. Overall professional reception has been broadly positive.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 17100
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
TRAILER HITCHES23V181000
Risk: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is completed. Dealers will install a new fuse and wire extension kit as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed starting May 16, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 244. This recall is an expansion of previous rec
Reported 2023-03-17
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS23V038000
Risk: A detached roof molding could become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace, or secure the roof moldings, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 30, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 241.
Reported 2023-01-31
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
74 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.