Ford is one of the most popular automakers in the world, and the Detroit-based automaker has entered some new segments in recent years. The Maverick is a compact truck that Ford introduced in the 2022 model year, and that’s around the same time that Hyundai introduced the Santa Cruz, which is also a compact truck. While auto critics have been torn over which compact truck is better, consumers have clearly made a choice between the Ford Maverick and the Hyundai Santa Cruz.
The Ford Maverick and the Hyundai Santa Cruz have a lot in common
For many years, midsize trucks were the smallest new trucks available in America, but that recently changed. Many automakers have begun offering options in the compact pickup truck segment, and Ford did so with the Maverick in 2022. Hyundai had similar plans, and the South Korean automaker also introduced the Santa Cruz in the model year. 2022.
Since both trucks are compact trucks, they will have similar pros and cons. For example, a new 2023 Maverick starts at around $23,000, while a Santa Cruz of the same model year will start at around $24,000.
Both automakers equipped their compact trucks with small engines, and as a result, the trucks will have modest towing capacity. The Ford tops out at 4,000 pounds of towing capacity, while the Hyundai can tow 5,000 pounds.
Additionally, both trucks feature a one-piece design instead of the traditional body-on-frame design. As a result of these similarities, the Maverick and Santa Cruz are attracting a similar type of customer. However, in terms of sales numbers, it’s clear which truck is winning the race.
Buyers flock to the Ford Maverick
According to GoodCarBadCarSo far in 2022, the Maverick is dominating the Santa Cruz in terms of sales. Ford has sold almost 68,500 units of the Maverick so far this year, Hyundai only moved just under 33,000 units of the Santa Cruz. This means that Ford has sold twice as many Mavericks as Hyundai has sold Santa Cruz units.
Both cars debuted around the same time, and their sales numbers were closer last year. As of December 2021, Hyundai sold a total of 6,634 units of the Santa Cruz, while Ford sold a total of 7,228 units of the Maverick. But come 2022, car buyers steadily gravitated toward Ford’s compact truck over Hyundai.
However, the Santa Cruz is not failing, as its sales are increasing compared to the same time last year. For example, in November 2021, Hyundai sold 2,201 units of the pickup, and in November 2022, it sold 3,180 units. However, the Maverick became much more popular, selling 2,582 units in November 2021 and 7,457 units in November 2022.
Why are auto critics finally debating which compact truck is better?
Car reviewers are more generous with the Santa Cruz. Some rate it as a better truck than the Maverick, and many have the two trucks in a tie. The Santa Cruz costs a little more than the Maverick, but Hyundai gives owners a lot of value for that price.
For example, both trucks have a standard engine that makes 191 hp, and both automakers offer a more powerful engine option. Ford’s optional engine gets 250 hp, while Hyundai’s gets 281 hp.
Both automakers also spent time making their truck interiors nice and comfortable. Both trucks also have an 8-inch touch screen. That said, the Maverick’s truck bed is a bit longer, having a 4.5-foot bed, while the Santa Cruz has a 4-foot bed.
If you’re considering buying one, be sure to try both to see which one works best for you.
RELATED: 3 Popular and Reliable Compact Pickup Trucks of 2017 and 1 to Skip