Honda Ridgeline vs Hyundai Santa Cruz – Differences & Prices Compared

Honda Ridgeline

The Honda Ridgeline: A Pioneer in the Pickup Domain

The Honda Ridgeline has long been a standout in the midsize pickup segment, offering a unique blend of capability, comfort, and innovation. For 2025, Honda continues to refine and enhance the Ridgeline, ensuring it remains at the forefront of the market.

Performance and Power

At the heart of the Honda Ridgeline is a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering an impressive 280 horsepower. This powerplant provides ample strength for both daily driving and more demanding tasks. With 262 lb-ft of torque and an automatic transmission, the Ridgeline offers a smooth and responsive driving experience.

All current versions of the Ridgeline feature an all-wheel drive system, ensuring optimal traction and stability regardless of road conditions. This makes it an excellent choice for those who need a vehicle capable of navigating a variety of terrains.

Efficiency and Economy

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Ridgeline offers a commendable 18 mpg in the city and up to 24 mpg on the highway. This efficiency is noteworthy for a vehicle in the pickup category, making the Ridgeline not only powerful but also economical.

Design and Dimensions

The Honda Ridgeline's design continues to defy traditional expectations of what a pickup truck should be. Its body, measuring 210.2 inches in length, 78.6 inches in width, and 70 inches in height, is crafted with both functionality and aesthetics in mind. This sleek yet robust design allows it to stand out on the road while offering practical advantages.

The Ridgeline can comfortably seat five passengers, making it suitable for both family use and work-related tasks. With curb weights ranging from 4420 to 4504 lbs, the vehicle balances strength and agility superbly.

Innovative Features

A hallmark of the Ridgeline is its innovative approach to pickup design. It features a dual-action tailgate, which can be opened downwards like a traditional tailgate or sideways like a door, allowing for easier access to the cargo area. Additionally, the in-bed trunk provides a secure storage space, offering more versatility than typical open-bed designs.

Inside the cabin, the Ridgeline boasts a suite of advanced technology features, ensuring connectivity and comfort for all occupants. From an intuitive infotainment system to advanced safety features, the Ridgeline caters to the modern driver’s needs.

The Verdict

The Honda Ridgeline continues to pave the way in the midsize pickup sector with its blend of performance, efficiency, and innovation. As a reliable and versatile vehicle, it meets the demands of a diverse range of drivers, solidifying its position as a leader in its class. Whether for work or play, the Ridgeline is a vehicle designed to perform and impress on all fronts.

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.