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Honda Pilot vs Hyundai Santa Cruz – Differences & Prices Compared

Compare performance, trunk space, efficiency, and price at a glance.
Find out now which car suits you better – the Honda Pilot or the Hyundai Santa Cruz?

The Honda Pilot (SUV) comes with a Gasoline engine and Automatic transmission. In comparison, the Hyundai Santa Cruz (Pickup) features a Gasoline engine and Automatic transmission.

If you're looking for more power, decide whether the 285 HP of the Honda Pilot or the 281 HP of the Hyundai Santa Cruz better fits your needs.

The Honda Pilot offers a fuel efficiency of 19 mpg, compared to 22 mpg for the Hyundai Santa Cruz.

Price-wise, the Honda Pilot starts at 40200 $, while the Hyundai Santa Cruz is available from 28800 $. Compare all details and see which model fits your lifestyle best!

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The Honda Pilot and Hyundai Santa Cruz offer distinct choices for consumers seeking versatility on the road. The Honda Pilot, a robust SUV, provides ample space and renowned reliability for families, making it a solid choice for long drives and daily commutes. In contrast, the Hyundai Santa Cruz blends the utility of a compact truck with the comfort of an SUV, appealing to those who desire adventure-ready capability in a sleek, modern package.

Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is widely recognized for its spacious interior and ability to comfortably accommodate the entire family, making it a popular choice among midsize SUV enthusiasts. Known for its smooth driving dynamics, the Pilot effectively combines utility with a touch of luxury, catering to both daily commuting and weekend adventures. With a reputation for reliability and thoughtful design, this model continues to capture the interest of those seeking a versatile vehicle.

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Hyundai Santa Cruz

The Hyundai Santa Cruz is an innovative blend of SUV comfort and the utility of a pickup truck. It introduces a unique design approach, suited for those looking for both urban usability and rugged adventure. The vehicle's modern style and versatile features make it an attractive choice for those who need a practical yet stylish ride.

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Honda Pilot vs. Hyundai Santa Cruz: Navigating the Modern Jungle

In a world where versatility on the road is as diverse as the landscapes drivers traverse, the Honda Pilot and Hyundai Santa Cruz stand as distinct contenders. Though they represent different segments, with the Pilot in the SUV realm and the Santa Cruz claiming its spot in the pickup category, both vehicles offer unique attributes that cater to a range of lifestyle needs. Let’s delve into how these models stack up against each other in terms of technical prowess and innovative features.

Engine Power and Performance

The Honda Pilot, a venerable name in the SUV space, rolls into 2025 with a robust 3.5-liter gasoline engine. This powerhouse churns out 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, providing a compelling performance for both family trips and solo expeditions. The Pilot offers the flexibility of all-wheel and front-wheel drivetrains, ensuring adaptability to diverse driving conditions.

In contrast, the Hyundai Santa Cruz brings a distinctly modern flair to the pickup market with its 2.5-liter engine. Available in two variations, it delivers either 191 or a spirited 281 horsepower. The torque figures also offer variety, from a practical 181 lb-ft to a more forceful 311 lb-ft in the higher-powered model. The Santa Cruz's option for all-wheel or front-wheel drive further accentuates its adaptability for both urban and rugged terrains.

Fuel Efficiency Face-off

Fuel economy is an ever-critical factor for modern drivers. The Honda Pilot provides respectable mileage, with city figures ranging between 18-19 mpg and an impressive highway span of 23-27 mpg, depending on driving conditions. Its fuel tank capacity of 18.5 gallons enables longer trips with fewer stops, enhancing its role as a family-friendly SUV.

The Santa Cruz excels notably in highway efficiency, reaching up to 30 mpg, with its city mileage ranging from 18 to 22 mpg. Its slightly smaller fuel tank capacity of 17.7 gallons doesn’t significantly hinder its reach, making it a practical choice for both city journeys and weekend getaways.

Dimensions and Interior Space

When it comes to dimensions, the Honda Pilot asserts its SUV status with a length of up to 200.2 inches, a width of 78.5 inches, and a varying height reaching up to 72 inches. This translates into a spacious interior capable of accommodating 7 to 8 passengers, with ample cargo space for travel gear and groceries alike.

The Hyundai Santa Cruz, more compact at 195.9 inches in length, 75 inches in width, and 66 inches in height, offers a comfortable seating arrangement for up to 5 passengers. Though smaller, its design as a pickup ensures the cargo capabilities expected of its class, making it an attractive option for those needing a balance between passenger and utility space.

Innovative Features and Technology

Both vehicles are packed with an array of features designed to enhance driving comfort and safety. The Honda Pilot integrates advanced safety systems and infotainment technology, reinforcing its status as a family-centric SUV. Its intuitive design caters to drivers and passengers alike, ensuring every trip is both secure and enjoyable.

The Santa Cruz, meanwhile, showcases Hyundai's commitment to innovative tech. Its interface seamlessly combines convenience with connectivity, offering drivers the tools needed for modern driving dynamics. This pickup strikes a balance between practicality and electronic sophistication, appealing to adventure seekers and practical urbanites alike.

The Verdict

Ultimately, the decision between the Honda Pilot and the Hyundai Santa Cruz boils down to individual needs and lifestyle preferences. The Pilot excels as a family vehicle with its spacious interior and solid SUV framework. Conversely, the Santa Cruz charms with its unique offering in the pickup market, presenting a youthful, versatile option with a focus on efficient performance.

Whether your journey navigates city streets or ventures off the beaten path, both the Pilot and the Santa Cruz offer innovative and dependable rides, each beckoning with their distinct strengths and character.

Honda Pilot
Hyundai Santa Cruz

Costs and Consumption

Price
40200 - 54600 $
Price
28800 - 42800 $
FuelEconomy City
18 - 19 mpg
FuelEconomy City
18 - 22 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
23 - 27 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
26 - 30 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
18.50 gal
Fuel tank capacity
17.70 gal

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Pickup
Seats
7 - 8
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
4306 - 4685 lbs
Curb weight
3779 - 4295 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
-
Length
199.9 - 200.2 in.
Length
195.90 in.
Width
78.50 in.
Width
75 in.
Height
70 - 72 in.
Height
66 in.

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
All Wheel, Front Wheel
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Power HP
285 HP
Power HP
191 - 281 HP
Torque
262 lb-ft
Torque
181 - 311 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
3.50 L
Engine Displacement
2.50 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
Brand
Honda
Brand
Hyundai

Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot: A Commanding Presence on the Road

As we delve into the world of sport utility vehicles, the Honda Pilot stands prominently as a testament to Honda's innovation and engineering prowess. Known for its blend of practicality, comfort, and performance, the Honda Pilot continues to be a favorite among families and adventure enthusiasts alike. In its latest 2025 iteration, the Honda Pilot showcases advancements that not only cater to comfort but also to driving efficiency and versatility.

Engineering Excellence Under the Hood

The Honda Pilot maintains its reputation with a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, capable of delivering an impressive 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain ensures a responsive driving experience, whether navigating urban streets or off-road trails. Coupled with an automatic transmission, the Pilot provides smooth gear transitions, enhancing driving comfort and performance.

Innovative Drive Systems

Designed for versatile handling, the Pilot offers both all-wheel and front-wheel drive configurations. The all-wheel drive system is perfect for those who frequently encounter challenging terrains, offering improved grip and stability. Meanwhile, the front-wheel drive variant provides exceptional efficiency for city commutes and long highway drives, making it a versatile choice for various driving environments.

Efficiency Meets Performance with Impressive Fuel Economy

The Honda Pilot marries power with efficiency, boasting a commendable fuel economy. With city mileage ranging between 18 and 19 mpg and highway figures between 23 and 27 mpg, the Pilot ensures fewer stops at the pump, allowing drivers to focus more on the journey and less on refueling.

Comfort and Versatility in Design

Space and comfort are at the forefront of the Honda Pilot's design. Offering seating configurations for 7 or 8 passengers, the interior is crafted to handle both large families and extra cargo with ease. The exterior dimensions, with a length just over 200 inches and a width of 78.5 inches, present a commanding road presence, yet effortlessly merge form with function.

Safety and Convenience Features

Safety remains a core component of the Pilot's identity. The latest models come equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and collision mitigation braking system. Convenience is not overlooked either, with intuitive infotainment systems and seamless connectivity features that make every journey enjoyable.

A Reliable Companion for Every Adventure

The 2025 Honda Pilot exemplifies what drivers can expect from a well-engineered SUV: power, efficiency, comfort, and safety. With a strong foundation and continuous enhancements, the Pilot remains a dependable choice for those seeking a vehicle that can accommodate both everyday commutes and weekend getaways with equal ease.

As Honda continues to innovate and refine their offerings, the Pilot is likely to remain at the forefront of the SUV segment, proving once again why it is a favored choice among consumers around the world.

Hyundai Santa Cruz

The Hyundai Santa Cruz: Redefining the Pickup Experience

When you think of pickups, the image that often comes to mind is a robust, utilitarian vehicle primarily designed for heavy-duty applications. However, the Hyundai Santa Cruz is reshaping that narrative by blending the reliability of a traditional pickup with the comfort and features of an SUV. As we dive into the details of this innovative model, it's easy to see why it stands out in the crowded automotive landscape.

Engineered for Performance

Under the hood of the Hyundai Santa Cruz, you'll find a series of powerful gasoline engines. The line-up includes versions with either 191 or 281 horsepower, catering to various needs and preferences. These engines are mated to a highly responsive automatic transmission that ensures a smooth driving experience whether you're on city streets or the open highway.

Adaptable Drive Options

The Santa Cruz offers both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations, providing flexibility for different driving conditions. This adaptability is ideal for those who require a vehicle capable of performing well in diverse environments, from urban commutes to rougher terrains.

Fuel Efficiency Meets Capability

Despite its robust performance, the Santa Cruz is designed with fuel efficiency in mind. City driving fuel economy ranges from 18 to 22 mpg, while highway mileage stands at 26 to 30 mpg, making it a practical choice for daily drivers. A 17.7-gallon fuel tank ensures fewer stops at the pump, allowing you to focus on the journey ahead.

Spacious Yet Compact

With dimensions of 195.9 inches in length, 75 inches in width, and 66 inches in height, the Santa Cruz strikes a perfect balance between spaciousness and maneuverability. It comfortably seats five passengers, offering ample room for both occupants and cargo.

Advanced Features and Innovation

In true Hyundai fashion, the Santa Cruz is packed with modern features designed to enhance comfort and safety. These include advanced infotainment systems, top-tier safety technology, and interior amenities that elevate the driving experience.

The Modern Pickup You've Been Waiting For

The Hyundai Santa Cruz is more than just a pickup; it's a lifestyle choice for the modern driver. By providing a harmonious blend of power, efficiency, and innovative features, it challenges the conventional standards of its class. As it paves the way for the future of pickups, the Santa Cruz promises to be a game-changer in the automotive world.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on USA list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.