Buying a compact or small truck is great for many reasons. However, some buyers need something more capable of snow driving or general off-roading. An expert put together a list of the best types of each vehicle to drive in the snow. The answer surprises most buyers in the small truck segment because it’s not a Toyota, Ford or Chevy model. The Hyundai Santa Cruz is the best small truck for driving in the snow.
The best small truck for driving in the snow
iSeeCars says the best vehicles for driving in the snow are the ones that rise to the challenges of freezing weather. Icy roads, reduced visibility, and low tire pressure are just a few of the obstacles snow drivers face. The post also says that the best models for driving in the snow have all of the same attributes. For example, four-wheel or all-wheel drive, anti-lock brakes, driver-assist technology, ground clearance, heated mirrors, remote start, traction/stability control, and winter/snow tires are just a few of the best features of a small truck. , SUV or car can have.
The one that best fits the bill in the compact or small truck segment is the Hyundai Santa Cruz. Out of it and the entry-level Ford Maverick, the Santa Cruz takes the cake. Though not yet ranked by iSC, the new Hyundai pickup has a lot going for it. Most notable is its low starting price of just $23,990. It’s more expensive than the Maverick but excels in other areas. Alternatively, the most expensive version in the Santa Cruz lineup is $39,720, which is pretty expensive for a truck of its size.
Why is the Hyundai Santa Cruz the best for driving in the snow?
A few things make the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz the best small truck to drive in the snow. According to iSeeCars, the unibody chassis shared with the Hyundai Tucson crossover makes it smaller and easier to drive. Although it comes with front-wheel drive on two trim levels, all-wheel drive is standard on top trims.
Plus, lower trims can get optional AWD for another $1,500. Additionally, the AWD system is Hyundai’s HTRAC system, which uses a multi-mode system to provide torque control between the front and rear axles. As a result, the small truck is more efficient on icy or snowy surfaces.
For safety, the Santa Cruz has many standard features to give owners peace of mind. Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist, to name a few.
How much does a Hyundai Santa Cruz cost?
According to car and driver, the base model 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz SE starts at $25,735 with fees included. This is followed by the SEL trim for $28,935, the SEL Premium trim for $37,425, and the top-end Limited, which starts at $41,465. Although the lower versions are affordable, they are much more expensive than the most basic versions of the Ford Maverick, its closest competitor. Santa Cruz top trims are also expensive but provide great features.
Hyundai Santa Cruz: The best small truck for driving in the snow
RELATED: The best full-size truck for driving in the snow might surprise you
In conclusion, the Hyundai Santa Cruz is the best small truck for driving in the snow. The Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz are the best options if you’re looking for an affordable truck that’s easy to maneuver and has great standard features. However, the Santa Cruz is a better option for driving in the snow. It outperforms its opponents in many ways with standard and optional all-wheel drive, an excellent AWD system, and several safety features. It’s not an off-road Toyota Tacoma, but it can help you beat winter weather for the money.