There are two obvious options if you’re in the market for a new compact truck. The 2023 Ford Maverick and 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz are slightly smaller than other trucks. Both are considered compact models, while popular alternatives like the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Honda Ridgeline are midsize trucks. A significant advantage of a compact truck is the low starting price. Let’s compare two of the cheapest pickup trucks available.
How much does a 2023 Ford Maverick cost?
According to car and driver, the 2023 Ford Maverick starts at $23,670 for the XL base model. All C/D prices include additional destination and handling fees, which are added during checkout for all auto manufacturers. The Maverick’s starting price makes it more affordable than even some sedans and coupes. However, there is more than one trim level in the lineup. When you buy the next step up, the Maverick XLT costs $25,930. Finally, the fully loaded Lariat model starts at $29,430. However, there are many other options available for the compact truck.
For example, the Lariat Luxury package is exclusive to the Lariat trim level. It adds power outlets, a spray bed liner, an upgraded infotainment system, a wireless smartphone charging pad, a B&O premium sound system, heated seats, a heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, and power assist. evasive direction. A dedicated front-wheel drive hybrid powertrain is standard, but a non-hybrid turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with all-wheel drive is available.
How much does a 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz cost?
Below, C/D lists the starting price of the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE base model at $26,745. Although it’s more expensive than the cheaper Maverick models, it does get a bit of an equipment boost. Next, the only other model comparable to Ford’s line of compact trucks is the SEL version. It starts at $29,085 and is Santa Cruz’s final offer starting at $37,000. The rest of the lineup features Night, SEL Premium, and Limited trims. The most expensive starts at $41,615, putting it on par with the most expensive midsize trucks.
What makes the taller Santa Cruz models so expensive? First, the SEL Premium model is the first in the lineup with a standard turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This increases the power of the Santa Cruz to 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. Plus, it gets standard all-wheel drive, digital key capability, navigation, and adaptive cruise control. The taller Limited trim also adds leather upholstery, rear-seat USB ports, ventilated front seats, Bose premium audio, a 360-degree camera system, and a lane-keeping system. Do all these extras make the pricey 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz models worth buying?
| 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz trims | Price |
| I KNOW | $26,745 |
| NSE | $29,085 |
| Evening | $37,105 |
| NSE Premium | $38,645 |
| Limited | $41,615 |
Which compact truck offers the most value?
It’s easy to say that the 2023 Ford Maverick offers more value for its price. In all trims, the Maverick costs less than $30,000 and offers most of the same features as the Hyundai model. The Santa Cruz becomes more desirable than the Maverick in its SEL Premium and Limited trims. Of course, they’ll cost almost $10,000 more than any version of Ford’s compact pickup.
We think if you’re interested in spending less for more, cheaper Maverick models, like the Car and Driver-recommended XLT model, are the way to go. However, buyers with more room in their budget can get the C/D recommended 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz SEL Premium for more technology, more comfort, standard AWD and a more powerful engine.