At Carrollton Hyundai, we know drivers in west Georgia want a pickup that’s versatile, efficient, and packed with modern features. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz redefines the pickup segment with a unique combination of compact size, bold style, and SUV-like comfort that the 2026 Honda Ridgeline can’t match.
Let’s see how these midsize trucks compare across performance, technology, and value.
| Performance & Efficiency | 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz | 2026 Honda Ridgeline |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder or Turbo 2.5L | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 191 hp / 281 hp (Turbo) | 280 hp |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | 21 / 26 MPG (Turbo) | 18 / 24 MPG |
| Available All-Wheel Drive | Yes — Trail Edition optimized for off-road | Yes — standard AWD |
The Santa Cruz combines truck utility with SUV-like handling and superior fuel efficiency, making it ideal for both city driving and weekend adventures. The available turbo engine delivers strong acceleration and towing capability, while the Ridgeline’s larger V6 sacrifices some efficiency and agility for slightly more brute power.
Inside the 2026 Santa Cruz, drivers enjoy a modern, tech-forward cabin with available dual 10.25-inch touchscreen displays, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and Hyundai Bluelink® connected services. Premium materials, adjustable seating, and versatile cargo configurations give you the comfort and utility the Ridgeline can’t match at this size.
While the Ridgeline offers a spacious interior, the Santa Cruz stands out with smarter storage solutions, intuitive tech, and a more contemporary design that appeals to west Georgia drivers who want style and function in one package.
Every 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz comes standard with Hyundai SmartSense, including:
The Ridgeline has some similar safety features, but many are optional. With the Santa Cruz, Carrollton drivers get a more comprehensive standard safety package plus the industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty for lasting peace of mind.
The Santa Cruz offers a more versatile, efficient, and affordable package compared to the Ridgeline. With Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance for 3 years / 36,000 miles and competitive ownership costs, the Santa Cruz maximizes value without compromising capability or style.
Choosing Carrollton Hyundai means local service, transparent pricing, and a dealership experience focused on your needs. For drivers who want the perfect balance of pickup utility, comfort, and modern technology, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz is the smarter choice over the Honda Ridgeline.
Come visit us at 3751 Carrollton Villa Rica Hwy, Carrollton, GA 30116. Our team is ready to help you experience the 2026 Santa Cruz firsthand. Whether you’re coming from Whitesburg, Braswell, Cedartown, Dallas, Rome, Villa Rica, Rome or Newnan, at Carrollton Hyundai you will find a team that understands your needs and compromises to offer you a next-level service. Visit us today and discover why we are the best choice when it comes to getting your new ride!
