How Much Can the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Tow?

2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz towing a camper 

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz offers impressive towing capabilities for those who need a versatile and practical pickup truck. Whether you're hauling gear for an outdoor adventure or taking on everyday utility tasks, the Santa Cruz provides the power and convenience needed. Here's all you need to know about the Hyundai Santa Cruz towing capacity, payload, advanced towing features, cargo space, and safe towing tips.

2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Towing Capacity

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz offers two engine options that determine its towing capacity:

  • SE and SEL Trims - Powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5L inline-4 engine with 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, these trims can tow up to 3,500 pounds. This makes them ideal for small utility trailers, jet skis, and lightweight pop-up campers.

  • SEL Activity and XRT Trims (with AWD and Towing Package) - Equipped with a turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder engine producing 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, these trims can tow up to 5,000 pounds. This capacity allows for towing mid-size campers, fishing boats, and multiple motorcycles.

With its compact size and robust towing power, the 2025 Santa Cruz perfectly balances daily usability and adventure-ready capability.

2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz Payload Capacity

In addition to the notable Hyundai Santa Cruz towing capacity, this model offers a maximum payload capacity of 1,748 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it a practical choice for hauling tools, supplies, and recreational gear. Its versatile truck bed allows for easy cargo organization, making everyday tasks and weekend trips hassle-free.

Towing Features

To ensure a stable and safe towing experience, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz comes equipped with a range of advanced towing features, including:

  • Trailer Sway Control - Automatically applies brakes to individual wheels to maintain towing stability.

  • Available Integrated Trailer Brake Controller - Provides improved braking efficiency for safer towing.

  • Downhill Brake Control - Enhances control on steep declines while carrying heavy loads.

  • All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System - Offers increased traction and stability, especially when towing on uneven terrain.

These features contribute to a smooth and confident towing experience, whether you're hauling a camper for a road trip or a boat for a weekend getaway.

Cargo and Storage Volume

The 2025 Santa Cruz is designed with practicality in mind. It offers a functional 4.3-foot truck bed with underfloor storage, making it easy to store tools, gear, and smaller items securely. Additional cargo space includes:

  • Lockable in-bed storage compartment - Ideal for keeping valuables safe.

  • Adjustable tailgate - Enhances loading flexibility for longer or bulkier items.

  • Available roof rails and bed extender - Expands carrying capacity for larger cargo needs.

Whether you're packing for a camping trip or transporting work equipment, the Santa Cruz provides ample storage solutions.

Tips for Safe Towing with the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz

To make the most of the Hyundai Santa Cruz towing capacity while ensuring safety on the road, follow these towing best practices:

  1. Know Your Limits - Adhere to the recommended towing capacity based on your trim level and towing package.

  1. Distribute Weight Properly - Ensure that the weight of your trailer is balanced to prevent swaying or instability.

  1. Use the Right Hitch - Select a hitch that matches your towing weight to ensure secure attachment.

  1. Check Tire Pressure - Maintain proper tire pressure on both the vehicle and trailer to optimize stability and fuel efficiency.

  1. Brake Gradually - Allow extra stopping distance when towing heavier loads to prevent sudden braking issues.

  1. Inspect Trailer Lights - Regularly check that all trailer lights are functioning for safety and compliance with road regulations.

Following these tips will help ensure a smooth and stress-free towing experience with your Santa Cruz.

Get Your Hyundai Santa Cruz at Central Hyundai

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz is the perfect blend of power, versatility, and convenience for all your towing and hauling needs. Whether you're looking for a reliable daily driver with light towing capabilities or need a truck that can handle heavier loads, Central Hyundai in Plainfield, CT, has the right Santa Cruz for you. Visit our dealership today to explore our inventory, take a test drive, and find the perfect trim level for your lifestyle.